Agglomeration of ultra-fine coal particles

Abstract

A method of preparing agglomerates of ultra-fine coal particles includes mixing a film forming agglomeration aid (FFAA) with a quantity of ultra-fine coal particles to form ultra-fine coal particles coated with the FFAA. The FFAA has a lower surface energy relative to a surface of the ultra-fine coal particles. The FFAA is mixed with the ultra-fine coal particles in an amount less than 3% by weight of the ultra-fine coal particles on a dry basis. Agglomerates of the ultra-fine coal particles coated with the film forming agglomeration aid are formed using vibration, pelleting, and/or briquetting. The agglomerates have a size of at least 2 mm. The ultra-fine coal particles have a particle size less than 100 μm. The agglomerate has a tumbler test friability less than 3%. The drop shatter friability is also less than 3%.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.