Recent research has unveiled significant insights into the molecular structure of bituminous coal and anthracite, promising to reshape the understanding of coal’s evolution and its implications for various industries, particularly construction. Conducted by a team led by LI Yuanji from the School of Safety Engineering at Heilongjiang University of Science and Technology, this study employs advanced techniques such as 13C NMR, FT-IR, and Raman spectroscopy to characterize coal’s complex structure.
As coal undergoes the process of coalification, its molecular structure transforms, impacting its physical properties and, consequently, its utility in construction. “The findings indicate that as coal matures, the aromaticity increases while the aliphatic components diminish,” LI explained. This transition not only affects the energy content of the coal but also its suitability as a raw material in construction processes, where the stability and maturity of materials are critical.
The research highlights a pivotal change in the chemical structure of coal: the loss of methylene groups occurs at a faster rate than that of methyl groups during the transition from bituminous coal to anthracite. This shift enhances the crystallinity of coal, making it a more stable and reliable material for construction applications. “Our molecular structure models provide a clearer picture of how these transformations occur, offering valuable insights for industries reliant on coal,” LI added.
The study established two molecular models—C175H162O13N2 for bituminous coal and C190H159O5N3 for anthracite—using computer-aided molecular design. These models not only reflect the real structure of coal but also align closely with experimental data, showcasing the reliability of the research. As the construction sector increasingly seeks sustainable and efficient materials, understanding the molecular evolution of coal can inform better choices in material selection and usage.
The implications of this research extend beyond theoretical knowledge; they hold potential commercial benefits as well. Enhanced understanding of coal’s properties can lead to improved processes in energy generation and material production, ultimately influencing construction costs and sustainability practices. As industries strive for greener alternatives, the ability to characterize coal accurately may pave the way for innovations in how coal is utilized in construction.
This groundbreaking research was published in ‘Taiyuan Ligong Daxue xuebao’, which translates to ‘Journal of Taiyuan University of Technology’. For more information about LI Yuanji and his work, you can visit the School of Safety Engineering at Heilongjiang University of Science and Technology. The findings represent a significant step forward in understanding coal’s role in modern industry, particularly in construction, where material properties are paramount.
