Thermogravimetric Analysis of Coal Combustion Dynamics
Summary
Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) has emerged as a cornerstone technique for dissecting the complex stages of coal combustion. By precisely measuring mass loss under controlled heating rates and atmospheric conditions, TGA yields detailed insights into devolatilisation, char oxidation and mineral interactions. These data underpin the derivation of kinetic parameters—such as activation energies and reaction orders—that inform modelling of furnace behaviour and emissions. Advances in instrument coupling (for example, with Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy or mass spectrometry) enable simultaneous characterisation of evolved gases, offering a continuous profile of species release. Such integrative approaches have sharpened our understanding of how coal rank, particle size and inherent mineral matter influence ignition, burnout and pollutant formation. Ultimately, TGA studies guide the optimisation of combustion systems, support the development of cleaner coal technologies and underpin strategies for carbon capture, utilisation and storage.
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Thermogravimetric Analysis of Coal Combustion Dynamics publication trend
The graph below shows the total number of articles in thermogravimetric analysis of coal combustion dynamics across all publications each year (not limited to Nature Index journals).
Technical terms
Thermogravimetric analysis (TGA): A technique that tracks mass change in a sample as temperature varies, revealing thermal decomposition and oxidation behaviour.
Devolatilisation: The process by which volatile components are released from coal upon heating, preceding char formation.
Char oxidation: The heterogeneous combustion of the solid carbonaceous residue following devolatilisation, typically occurring at higher temperatures.
Activation energy: The minimum energy barrier that must be overcome for a chemical reaction (such as char oxidation) to proceed.
Derivative thermogravimetry (DTG): The first derivative of the TGA curve, highlighting rates of mass loss and resolving overlapping reaction steps.
Coupled analysis: Integration of TGA with spectroscopic techniques (FTIR, MS) to identify and quantify gaseous products in real time.
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