Phase minerals compositin of wastes formed in bituminous coal combustion from individual domestic furnace in the Piekary Slaskie town [Poland]

The aim of this work was to present the mineral composition of ashes which were the result of burning coal in individual home furnaces in the area of Piekary Śląskie. Ashes samples were examined by X-ray powder diffraction and analytical scanning electron microscopy. Main components of the ash particles is aluminosilicate glaze containing such elements as iron, calcium, sodium, potassium, copper, lead, nickel, phosphorus, titanium, barium and sulphur. Solid waste as ashes, which were the result of the process of burning coal in individual home furnaces can be characterized by the majority of particles of the size not larger than several micrometers. These particles have mostly irregular or spherical shapes. The knowledge of phase composition of the examined waste has a great significance while estimating their influence on environment, especially when considering storage of ashes with community waste.