Volatile matter in coal

Volatile matter in coal refers to the components of coal that are released as gas or vapor when the coal is heated or burned. Volatile matter is an important factor in determining the properties of coal, as it affects the combustion behavior, heating value, and environmental impact of the coal.

The volatile matter content of coal typically ranges from 20 to 40 percent, depending on the type of coal and its rank. Higher-ranked coals, such as anthracite and bituminous coal, generally have a lower volatile matter content than lower-ranked coals, such as lignite and sub-bituminous coal.

The volatile matter in coal consists mainly of hydrocarbons, which are compounds of hydrogen and carbon that are released as gas or vapor during combustion. These hydrocarbons include methane, ethane, propane, butane, and other gases, as well as various organic compounds that contribute to the characteristic aroma of coal smoke.

In addition to affecting combustion behavior and heating value, the volatile matter content of coal also plays a role in environmental concerns related to coal combustion, such as emissions of carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen oxides. High-volatile coals tend to have higher emissions of these pollutants, which can contribute to air pollution and climate change.

Overall, the volatile matter content of coal is an important factor to consider when assessing the properties and environmental impact of coal, as well as its suitability for different applications, such as power generation and industrial processes.