Oxidative desulfurization of Chakwal coal using potassium permanganate, ferric sulfate, and sodium hypochlorite

This study investigates the desulfurization of Chakwal coal (Punjab, Pakistan) using three oxidants, namely KMnO4, Fe-2(SO4)(3), and NaOCl. Operational parameters were concentration, particle size, and pH. According to the results, KMnO4 removed 95% sulfur from coal. Similarly, Fe-2(SO4)(3) removed 71% and NaOCl removed 50% sulfur. NaOCl was found to be less efficient compared to other two oxidants. Fe-2(SO4)(3) and KMnO4 both removed sulfur significantly. Fe-2(SO4)(3) could be considered for cleaning of low grade coals since it is cheaper and very effective in removing sulfur from coal. The cleaned Chakwal coal can be used in different energy recovery schemes.