Effect of transition metal chloride (ZnCl2) on low-temperature pyrolysis of high ash bituminous coal

Concerns about pollution and global warming have grown in recent years. Efficient coal use is critical for reducing the environmental toll of fossil fuel consumption. This study aims to examine how transition metal chlorides affect the burn-off rate and thermal conversion efficiency of bituminous coal with a high ash content. The analytical methods used include proximate, thermo-gravimetric, morphological, and pyrolysis analyses. This research examined the effect of change in the carbonization temperature, carbonization time, and catalyst concentration on the thermal degradation of high-ash bituminous coal impregnated with ZnCl2. At various ratios, zinc chloride solution was adsorbed onto the coal surface. The treated coal was then heated at different temperatures ranging from 510 to 710°C, under atmospheric pressure, in a furnace without air. This process was carried out to enhance the rate of burnout or pyrolysis. The response surface approach reveals that the carbonization time is a crucial input parameter, followed by the carbonization temperature and catalyst concentration. The response surface methodology analysis yielded a coefficient of determination of 0.9734.