X-RAY FLUORESCENCE RESEARCH OF SULPHUR AND ASH CONTENTS IN THE COALS OF KAZAKHSTAN

Abstract

Coal is one of the oldest types of fuel; it served as the main source of energy until the middle of the 20th century. It is composed of organic and mineral matter. [1].

When coal is burned, mineral components are converted into ash and slag, which are stored as waste from power generation. Accumulated to date the mass of ash dumps in the world is enormous. Ash dumps create great environmental stress in the regions, posing a threat to the environment and human health. It follows from the above that ash dumps cause great ecological, economic and social damage. Consequently, the problem of disposal of ash and slag materials requires urgent decision [2, 3].

The coal industry of Kazakhstan is one of the the largest sectors of the economy and the volume of coal production in the CIS is second only to Russia. About 80% of Kazakhstan's energy supply is carried out through the use of this fuel [4].