Synergistic coal dust control using aqueous solutions of thermoplastic powder and anionic surfactant

For the control of pulverized coal, we propose a dust suppressant by applying a blend of mixed polyethylene oxide (g-PEO) and sodium dodecyl sulfate ( SDS ). In our experimental study, the thermal characteristics, critical micelle concentration ( CMC ), wettability and adhesion of the dust suppressant are investigated. It was found that g-PEO had a low fusing temperature and its combustion temperature was close to that of coal, thus, the solution containing g-PEO applied coal dust control did not affect the use of the coal. Based on steady-state fluorescence using pyrene as a fluorescent label, quantitative analysis revealed that the CMC s of g-PEO and SDS were 1 and 20   g/L in g-PEO& SDS solution, respectively. The solution containing SDS had the best wettability, but it only had a short-term effect. The solution containing g-PEO showed negligible wetting ability to wet coal dust. The solution containing g-PEO& SDS had better wetting ability and adhesion. Scanning electron microscopy showed that the coal dust covered by g-PEO& SDS on its surface could form a thin layer of armor by holding the particles together after air-drying. It was concluded that the g-PEO& SDS solution containing g-PEO for 1   g/L and SDS for 20   g/L could suppress coal dust and maintain a long-term effect.