Intercalation modified nano zirconium phosphate inhibitor for inhibiting coal spontaneous combustion

The synthesis and characterization of a modified zirconium phosphate (MZrP) nano-inhibitor for spontaneous coal combustion inhibition were explored through isooctylamine intercalation. Using oxidation experiment, FTIR and SEM, the variation rules of the characteristic parameters of the different coal samples were investigated. It was observed that MZrP exhibited enhanced dispersion within the coal matrix post-intercalation modification. As the MZrP concentration increased, there was a notable decrease in oxygen consumption rate, gas production concentration, and active group content in the coal, alongside a significant increase in apparent activation energy and inhibition efficacy. This enhanced inhibition is attributed to two primary mechanisms. Firstly, the hydrophilic nature of MZrP allows for its uniform distribution on the coal surface and within internal pores, creating a dense carbonized layer. This layer effectively retains moisture and isolates oxygen, enhancing physical inhibition. Secondly, MZrP inhibitor is thermally decomposed into phosphoric acid and its phosphoric acid derivatives, which can effectively capture the H- and -OH in the coal, and strengthens the inactivation of its reactive free radicals. The optimal inhibition was observed in coal samples treated with 6 wt% MZrP, exhibiting an average inhibition rate of 62.2 %, coupled with the lowest rates of gas production and oxygen consumption.