Analyzing Moisture Content in Coal Sample:

Moisture Content of Coal:

Moisture content is an important parameter in coal analysis. It is

needed for determining the calorific (heating) value and handling
properties of coal.
The moisture value given for a proximate analysis is the moisture
measured as mass lost from a sample under specified conditions after
heating in a moisture oven to 104 to 110°C. This measured result is
termed residual moisture. This is the moisture value used for
calculating other analytical results on a dry basis. It can be used in
conjunction with air-dried moisture to calculate on an as-received
basis.

Apparatus Required:

Following apparatus is required for this testing procedure:

● Crucibles
● Muffle Furnace
● Coal sample (2 grams)
● Spatula
● Digital Balance
● Safety Gloves
● Crucible Tongs
Procedure:

The following procedure is followed to carry out this qualitative analysis:

1. The weight of the crucible and the lid are measured.
2. For this experiment, 2 grams of coal is taken for the test.
3. The coal is added to the crucible.
4. This crucible is put inside a preheated oven which is set at 105⁰C.
5. The sample is heated for an hour.
6. Now moisture is reduced in the coal.
7. The crucible is re-weighed.
8. The difference in weight is the moisture content weight of the coal.

Readings:

Before: Weight of the Crucible Weight of the Coal=23.72+2 grams= 25.72

grams
After: Weight of the Crucible Weight of the Coal= 25.57
grams Change in Weight= Moisture Content=25.72-
25.57= 0.15 gram.

Calculation:
%Moisture Content= 𝑊1−𝑊2x 100
3
%Moisture Content= 0.02x 100
3
%Moisture Content= 0.6%
Conclusion:

From all of the above experiments, it is concluded that coal has very
less moisture present in it which leads to thinking that this coal is
suitable for energy production and furnace use

Precautions:

Following precautionary measures should be taken in carrying out this

experiment:
1. Heat-resistant gloves and/or suitable tongs should be used to
avoid personal injury and possible damage to samples.
2. If glass weighing bottles are used they should be placed on a
high shelf away from heating elements.
3. A heat-insulated pad should always be used to place hot
glassware of any description.
4. Measurements should be taken very precisely i.e weight changes
in minuscule amounts.