Journal of Engineering Research
Innovation and Scientific Development

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1M.U Ajieh,  2R.N Agbale,  3K. Owebor,  4L.O. Madagwu, 

1. 1  Department of Chemical Engineering, Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria
2. 2  Department of Chemical Engineering, Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria
3. 3  Department of Mechanical Engineering, Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria
4. 4  National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure (NASENI-NEDDI), Nnewi, Anambra State, Nigeria

doi https://doi.org/10.61448/jerisd33252

Abstract

Nigeria's coal reserves remain largely under utilized in contrast to its more extensively developed oil and gas resources. The application potential of coal is influenced by its structural and chemical characteristics. This study focuses on the analysis of Azagba coal using various techniques, including X-ray fluorescence (XRF), X-ray diffraction (XRD), proximate and ultimate analyses, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Inorganic analysis reveals a dominant presence ofSiO3 (53.65%), SO3 (16.18%), and Al2O3 (7.09%), indicating a siliceous composition. XRD analysis confirms a high proportion of graphite crystalline phase (82%) and minerals such as quartz, marialite, and calcite. Key structural indicators—interlayer spacing (d002 = 3.38 Å) and stacking height (Lc = 57.32 nm)—suggest a well ordered carbon framework. FTIR spectra further reveal hydroxyl (-OH), aliphatic (C-H), and various oxygen-containing groups, with a high aromatic hydrogen ratio (Hal/H= 0.49) and significant aromaticity (fa = 0.68). The proximate and ultimate analyses classify Azagba coal as a high-rank, volatile bituminous to anthracite type, marked by a high fixed carbon content (59.47%) and low ash content (1.13%). These attributes emphasize the coal's structural maturity, reactivity potential, and industrial applicability