Abstract
M.Tech. (Metallurgy)
Abrasive index (AI) is expressed as the total mass loss of four carbon steel blades
when rotated for a fixed number of revolutions in a known mass of coal under
specific conditions. During the testing of coal to ascertain its AI, coal dust is
generated. Coal dust is a fine powdered form of coal, which is created from the
crushing of the coal samples, grinding or pulverizing of coal. Exposure to coal dust
can occur through inhalation, ingestion and eye contact. Such exposure is
associated with the development of occupational respiratory diseases including
simple coal workers pneumoconiosis (CWP), progressive massive fibrosis (PMF)
and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD).
The aim of the study was to measure all the coal dust explosion hazards to
determine the levels of minerals and trace elements present in coal dust and the
extent of exposure of laboratory operators to coal dust whilst performing the AIT.
The objectives were to:
· determine the levels of minerals and trace elements present in coal dust
emitted during the coal AIT.
· determine the awareness of laboratory operators and managers of the health
effects of coal dust exposure by using structured interviews.
· assess laboratory operators’ exposure (personal and environmental
exposure) to coal dust by visual observation.
In this study, the X-ray diffraction analysis was undertaken on the coal dust in order
to establish which minerals are present in the sample. The mineral matter is the
source of unwanted abrasion, corrosion or environmental pollution that are
associated with coal usage. They are a public health concern because at sufficient
exposure levels they adversely affect human health. Physical obervations and
questionnaires were used to determine the awareness of laboratory operators and
managers of the health effects of coal dust exposure...