EconPapers    
Economics at your fingertips  
 

An overview of the coal circularity in Brazil: A new sustainable approach based on sampling method, characterization, and waste valorization

M.N.S. Faraco, L. Simão, J. Acordi, E.F. Olivo, A. Zaccaron, O.R.K. Montedo, M.J. Ribeiro, C.P. Bergmann and F. Raupp-Pereira

Resources Policy, 2025, vol. 102, issue C

Abstract: Coal is a key energy source globally, and Brazil holds substantial reserves. However, approximately 50% of the coal extracted in Brazil is discarded as waste, often mixed into a single material without selective characterization. This study aims to establish a framework to help mining companies identify and implement strategies for sustainable coal mining practices in the study region. Residual fraction samples were collected and analyzed for their characteristics and potential applications. The results showed that the clay content in the waste is influenced by the age and depth of the coal deposits, while the beneficiation process determines the pyritic content. Based on these findings, four groups of residual fractions were identified for specific applications. Group 1, with higher carbon content, is suitable for processing and carbon concentration. Group 2, characterized by low pyrite content, coarse granulometry, and neutral pH, may be used to concentrate clay minerals for ceramics and mortars. Group 3, rich in clay minerals, is suitable for fertilizers, techno-soils, pozzolans, and geopolymers. Group 4 includes samples with potential for pyrite concentration. This study highlights the value of systematic waste sampling and evaluation, providing an effective strategy to promote the circular economy. This approach supports sustainable development in the research region and beyond by unlocking the potential of coal mining waste.

Keywords: Coal; Mine wastes; Characterization; Waste valorization (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
References: Add references at CitEc
Citations:

Downloads: (external link)
http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0301420725000388
Full text for ScienceDirect subscribers only

Related works:
This item may be available elsewhere in EconPapers: Search for items with the same title.

Export reference: BibTeX RIS (EndNote, ProCite, RefMan) HTML/Text

Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:jrpoli:v:102:y:2025:i:c:s0301420725000388

DOI: 10.1016/j.resourpol.2025.105496

Access Statistics for this article

Resources Policy is currently edited by R. G. Eggert

More articles in Resources Policy from Elsevier
Bibliographic data for series maintained by Catherine Liu ().

 
Page updated 2025-03-24
Handle: RePEc:eee:jrpoli:v:102:y:2025:i:c:s0301420725000388