Effects of Iron Fragments on Combustion Emissions of CO2, SO2 and NOx when mixed with Coal obtained from Obomkpa Mines in Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

The adverse environmental consequences of greenhouse gas emissions from coal combustion have necessitated the search for cleaner, more environmentally friendly alternative energy sources. Consequently, the objective of this paper was to investigate the Effects of Iron Filings on Combustion Emissions of CO₂, SO₂ and NOx when mixed with Coal obtained from Obomkpa Mines in Delta State, Nigeria using appropriate standard procedures after mixing ratios of coal (C) to iron filings (IF) at 9:1; 8:2; 7:3; and 6:4 respectively alongside a control sample of 1:0. Proximate analysis revealed mean values of moisture content of 3.43%, ash content of 10.98%, volatile matter of 43.68% and fixed carbon of 41.9% while ultimate analysis showed mean values of carbon content of 51.91%, Sulphur content of 0.79% and nitrogen content of 1.4%. The results showed that a 60% C: 40% IF blend greatly reduced carbon, Sulphur, and nitrogen oxide emissions compared with other compositions, with respect to CO₂ (37.71%). SO₂ (38.71%) and NOx (32.45%) as against 100% coal combustion.  Overall, a composite (i.e., iron filling and coal) presents a dependable potential for Carbon, Sulphur and Nitrogen oxides reduction for environmental outcomes towards achieving the United Nations (UNs) Sustainable Development Goals 6, 7 and 13.