Beneficiamento do carvão mineral como alternativa para reduzir impurezas e emissões de poluentes atmosféricos

Abstract

The Rio Grande do Sul coal region is one of the largest producers of mineral coal for energy purposes in Brazil. However, in the context of decarbonizing the electricity sector, this energy resource requires the use of technologies aimed at reducing emissions of pollutants resulting from burning, thus minimizing environmental impacts such as air, soil and water pollution, degradation of mined areas and the impact on the health of workers and the local population. Encouraging the use of less polluting or renewable energy sources is an important regional demand and contributes to the Just Energy Transition (JET). Based on these aspects, this study investigated the possibility of using dry beneficiation on coal from the Companhia Riograndense de Mineração deposit in Candiota-RS, with a view to reducing impurities. The methodology consisted of: i. Describing a beneficiation plant; ii. Carrying out a quantitative analysis of the influence of beneficiation on the composition of mineral coal; iii. Based on the composition of ROM and beneficiated coal, comparing flue gas emissions, estimating flame temperatures and the influence of excess air on emissions. It was shown that there was a reduction in impurities such as sulphur and ash, a reduction in humidity and an increase in calorific value after beneficiation. As a result, the flame temperature rises, enabling less fuel to be used to generate the same amount of MWh. Due to the reduction in impurities, there was a reduction in SOx and NOx emissions. Excess air has a more significant influence on CO2 and CO emissions. It was concluded that the processing is appropriate and, as a final product, coal is obtained with higher calorific value, lower ash and sulphur content, resulting in a reduction in emissions of polluting gases into the atmosphere.