Recent advancements in coal beneficiation technology have the potential to significantly impact the construction sector, particularly in the efficient processing of coal resources. A new study led by XI Tong from the Key Laboratory of Coal Processing & Efficient Utilization at the China University of Mining and Technology sheds light on the collision and adhesion characteristics of dense medium particles to coal surfaces in dry dense medium fluidized beds.
In the realm of coal separation, the study reveals that particle agglomeration—a phenomenon where particles clump together due to fluid dynamics and interactions—poses challenges for fluidization quality and overall product efficiency. “Understanding the collision and adhesion processes between heavy medium particles and coal surfaces is crucial for enhancing the stability and efficiency of fluidized beds,” said Tong. This insight is particularly relevant as the construction industry increasingly seeks sustainable and efficient methods for resource extraction and processing.
The research indicates that as the collision velocity of particles increases, the normal restitution coefficient—an indicator of energy loss during collisions—also rises. This is significant for construction-related processes where energy efficiency can lead to cost savings and improved operational performance. Notably, larger particle sizes tend to enhance this restitution coefficient under similar humidity conditions, highlighting the importance of particle size in optimizing coal separation processes.
As relative humidity increases, the study found that adhesion losses due to liquid bridge forces become more pronounced, leading to a marked decrease in the particle restitution coefficient. This finding suggests that managing humidity levels could be a key factor in maintaining optimal fluidization conditions. “Our results provide a theoretical basis for controlling particle agglomeration, which could ultimately improve sorting efficiency in fluidized beds,” Tong explained.
The implications of this research extend beyond theoretical understanding; they pave the way for practical applications in construction and energy sectors. Enhanced coal beneficiation processes could lead to higher quality coal products, which are essential for energy generation and material production in construction projects. With the construction industry facing increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices, optimizing coal utilization through these advanced separation technologies could play a vital role.
Published in the journal ‘Taiyuan Ligong Daxue xuebao’, or ‘Journal of Taiyuan University of Technology’, this study serves as a cornerstone for future innovations in coal processing. As industries strive for greater efficiency and sustainability, research like this will be integral in shaping the methodologies that underpin resource management in construction and beyond. For further information, you can visit the lead_author_affiliation.
