Modeling the Structure of Water–Oil–Coal Emulsions Based on Anthracite and Waste Water

A structural model of water–oil–coal emulsions (WOCEs) based on large spherical anthracite particles dispersed in a matrix phase composed of small spherical anthracite particles, oil, industrial waste water, and an emulsifier is proposed. The model provides the calculation of average coordination numbers for both large and small particles along with the interparticle distance by using the specified or calculated coordination numbers. This makes it possible to optimize the process of achieving desirable properties, in particular, with waste water to promote more efficient utilization for water–oil–coal emulsions in the power production sector. The utilization of water–oil–coal emulsions contributes to rational resource management, reduces environment pollution, and provides a comprehensive solution for industrial wastewater disposal. Due to stable combustion within a broad range of temperatures and a high calorific value, such systems essentially reduce the thermal power production expenditures. The cost of heat production by WOCE combustion per 1 Gcal is twice lower as compared to traditional fossil fuels, so its utilization becomes economically reasonable and promising for power production industry.