Major, minor, and trace element composition of coal and fly ash, as determined by instrumental neutron activation analysis

A highly sensitive instrumental neutron activation analysis (INAA) technique can determine 30 to 40 elements in coal and fly ash including Sb, As, Se, Hg, Zn, and V which are elements of environmental concern. This multi-element capability makes possible the detailed chemical analysis of coal and combustion products. A comparison to National Bureau of Standards--Environmental Protection Agency fuel standards shows that a high degree of accuracy and precision is attainable, allowing tentative conclusions to be drawn as to the origin of certain elements in the coal and their fate during combustion. (U.S.)