ELEMENTAL ANALYSIS
Thorough analysis of trace elements present in coal, ash and leachate samples usually involves the use of
atomic emission spectroscopy. Multi-elemental techniques in which many elements can be analyzed
simultaneously are desirable. Elemental concentrations in the coal and ash samples were determined
using Neutron Activation Analysis (NAA). Furthermore, the leachates produced by the laboratory
extraction methods were characterized with Inductively Coupled Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy
(ICP-AES). Quality assurance and quality control were maintained through the use of standard reference
materials, procedure blanks and appropriate trace metal laboratory procedures such selecting ultra-pure
reagents.
ELEMENTAL COMPOSITION OF COAL AND FLY ASH SAMPLES
Figures 1 and 2 depict the levels of the TCLP elements in the coal and fly ash samples, respectfully.
Cadmium and levels were not determined for the coal and ash samples but were examined in the leachate
analysis. Levels of Hg and Ag are below detection limits for all three varieties of coal and ash. Ba and
Cr are the most dominant TCLP elements in the coal and ash samples. Concentrations are elevated in the
fly ash compared to the coal as expected, most likely due to the high surface area to volume ratio
differences.