PARTICLE-INDUCED X-RAY EMISSION (PIXE) ANALYSIS OF COAL FLY ASH

Analysis of trace element in coal fly ash has been brought to the attention of the general public in recent years primarily as it concerns in pollution problem with coal-fired power plants. Indian coal used in the thermal power plants has quite high content of ash (upto 55%). Therefore, in order to assess the environmental impact of the coal fuel cycle, coal fly ash samples from Captive Power Plant (CPP) of National Aluminium Company (NALCO) in Angul industrial area have been analysed for heavy elements by PIXE technique. Sample preparation procedures, experimental setup and spectrum analysis are discussed.