Physicochemical Characterization and Economic Assessment of Coal Deposits within Afuze Area, Southsouthern Nigeria

Afuze is located within South West of the Benin Flank in the Anambra Basin which is an integral part of the larger Southern Benue. Coal samples from Afuze were analyzed geochemically to determine their grade and utilization. American Standard for Testing and Measurement (ASTM) and International Standard Organization (ISO) was employed in this research. Obtained results from the proximate analysis revealed a high volatile bituminous coal evident from high Ash Contents (30%). Moderate Moisture Content (4%), relatively low, significant Volatile Matter ranging from 38-46%, and lower Fixed Carbon average of 31.73%. For the ultimate analysis, the carbon content ranged from 34.44 – 74.16% (Av. 55.57%) suggesting slightly higher grade for the sampled coal, hydrogen content ranged from 1.94 – 5.56% (Av. 4.02%). A concentration of hydrogen gas between 4% and 75% was obtained for the coal samples suggesting its flammability. Oxygen, relatively low value ranged from 4.51 – 10.77% (Av.7.86%). The Nitrogen is slightly high ranging from 1.17 – 1.57% (Av. 1.36%). The sulphur content ranged from 0.01 – 0.10ppm, averaged (0.05%), very low or trace amount, falling within the range for some hardwood. The Gross Calorific Value, also known as the higher heating value of 5209.80 Kcal/Kg equivalent to 21.89 MJ/Kg was obtained indicating high quality and maturity. The high carbon content and low oxygen content are directly linked to its high calorific value. Afuze coal has a lot of potential energy, higher heating value, but because it’s mixed with a lot of ash, the useful energy you can get from burning it, Net Calorific Value (4877.64 Kcal/kg is equal to 20.42 MJ/kg is reduced, similar to how wet firewood burns less efficiently than dry wood. The studied coals is primarily lignitous to bituminous in nature with several potential uses based on their ranks and geochemical characteristics to include energy production, coke production, coal chemicals, domestic uses and industrial uses.