Structural studies of some Indian coals by using X-ray diffraction techniques

Abstract

Coal is one of the most abundant energy resources and has the capability to meet future energy needs with high reliability. The basic knowledge of coal structure is crucial to an understanding of the physical properties of coal and chemistry of conversion processes such as gasification, liquefaction, combustion and carbonization. Coal samples from Makum coalfield, Assam, India were investigated by X-ray diffraction techniques. The highly diffuse X-ray diffraction profiles indicate that the coals have amorphous carbon in their structures. Some of the X-ray structural parameters were evaluated by a semi-quantitative method. The parameters determine were d $_{002}$ , d $_{10}$ , L $_{a}$ and L $_{c}$ of various carbon contents (wt%) of different collieries. Strong linear relationship of d $_{002}$ with the wt% of carbon of the coals was observed. The present study reveals that the Assam coals consist of random layered structures with turbostratic carbons.