Proximate and Ultimate Characteristics of Okobo Coal deposit, Kogi State, North Central Nigeria

Abstract

With rekindled interest in coal as a viable source of energy adequate to serve wide spectrum of industries in Nigeria, there is a need for continuous appraisal of the coal deposits with the country. This study was geared towards enriching existing knowledge by investigating the proximate and ultimate characteristics of the Okobo coal deposit. The proximate analysis was carried in accordance with america society for testing and Materials standards while the ultimate composition was determined using NITON XL3 X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analyzer. The analyses were carried out at the Centre for Minerals Research and Development, Kaduna Polytechnic Nigeria. The field work reveal seven lithologic units; Sandstone, siltstone, shale, sandy-shale, mudstone, carbonaceous shale and coal. On the average, the proximate result reveals moisture content of 15.20%, volatile matter of 48.42% and ash content of 19.89% with mix carbon of 16.42%. These values place the Okobo coal at a disadvantage as metallurgical coking coal. However, favours its usage as feed for coal power systems and possibly liquidfaction. The ultimate result showed the presence of C (42.16%), H (4.44%), N (1.16%), Al (0.23%), Si (1.37%), S (1.02%), Fe (1.16%), and Ca (0.24%) as major elements, while the trace elements are Ti (1610ppm), V (36ppm), Cl (110ppm), Sr (20ppm), Zr (42ppm), and Cd (20ppm). Aside C, H and N some of the elements have low concentration when compared with their Clark values except Fe, Ti, V, Zr, and Cd with high values. In terms of mineralization, the Okobo coal is highly enriched in Cd, slightly enriched in Ti and depleted in other elements.