| Abstract: | The purpose of this study was the specific identification of the components of settleable particulate samples collected near a coke-making operation. The identification technique employed is a new application of reflected-light microscopic examination of polished sections of the material. The inherent optical characteristics of the individual particles are utilized to classify them as coal (high?, medium?, and low-volatile), coke (coke balls, pyrolytic carbon, slot-oven coke, and char), fly ash or mineral matter. The application of this method of analysis is unique in that classification of particles is based on these inherent optical properties and not on shape, color, or other subjective criteria. This microscopic classification technique is based on accepted methods and should be generally applicable by petrographers on the basis of the photomicrographs and the detailed procedures which are included. On the basis of the data obtained during a six-month study near a coke-making operation it is concluded that material handling and stockpiling operations are major contributors to settled particulate deposition, while coke oven charging was not a major source. This study has shown that a broad program of engineering control will be required to significantly reduce settled particulate deposition in the immediate vicinity of a coke-making operation. |
