Characterization of Brazilian high-ash coals by small-angle X-ray diffraction methods

Changes in the microporosity of several types of Brazilian high-ash coals have been analyzed by small-angle X-ray scattering as a function of thermal treatment. Pore size, determined using Guinier plots, decreased following thermal treatment of the samples. The modification of porosity induced by thermal treatment was similar for high-ash and low-ash coals, from which it may be inferred that mineral content is not a determining factor in the process of pore formation. Internal surface area for the samples was calculated with SAXS data. A correlation is established between the internal surface area values obtained and the carbon content and heat-treatment temperatures of the samples.