Effects of mineral leaching on combustion efficiency of coal gangue

Hydraulic erosion and weathering compromise the internal integrity of coal gangue hills exposed to the elements, exacerbating oxidation and spontaneous combustion. Select Qipanjing coal gangue with high calorific value, volatile matter, and self-igniting qualities for experimentation and processing under various soaking conditions. This industrial analysis examines how immersion conditions affect coal gangue material qualities and burning. The changes in inorganic minerals and organic carbon-containing functional groups in coal gangue following immersion are examined using XRD and FTIR. Studies show: Soaking improves coal gangue combustion, especially at 30 %. Inorganic minerals leach during the early soaking phase, and soaking conditions affect their leaching rate. At 15–30 % immersion, coal gangue's functional groups susceptible to oxidation (alcohols, phenols, CO groups, etc.) increased significantly. The soaking method improved coal gangue composition and combustion, providing new insights for its holistic use.