Publication Date |
1983 |
Personal Author |
Cathles, L. M.; Breen, K. J. |
Page Count |
286 |
Abstract |
The feasibility of leaching pyrite from coal heaps is analyzed by adapting a model of the heap-leaching process developed in the copper industry. Parameters in the model are first determined through literature review and direct measurement. The model is then used to predict how coal fragments will leach in reaction kettles containing ferric sulfate solution, in columns through which air is circulated, and in actual heaps. Model parameters are verified and refined by kettle and column experiments. Removal of pyrite from coal utilizing such a process is economically attractive. A heap-leaching operation capable of depyritizing 1 million tons of coal per year has a positive net present value at discount rates up to 16% (base case) to 33% (best case). |
Keywords |
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Source Agency |
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NTIS Subject Category |
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Corporate Authors |
Pennsylvania State Univ., University Park. Coll. of Earth and Mineral Sciences.; Bureau of Mines, Washington, DC. |
Supplemental Notes |
Sponsored in part by Bureau of Mines, Washington, DC. Grant G1115427. |
Document Type |
Technical Report |
Title Note |
Open file rept. (Final) 30 Sep 79-31 Dec 82. |
NTIS Issue Number |
198322 |