Abstract
The study aims to address the physical properties and chemical composition of ash and slag waste from a thermal power plant to determine the possibility of its reuse in the heat and power industry. This included classification and chemical analysis of ash and slag waste generated by the Bishkek thermal power plant to determine its composition. The received material samples were also subjected to laboratory tests to determine the particle size distribution and moisture content. Once the fractionation boundaries were established, a detailed study of the ash mass was carried out, including carbon distribution analysis and flotation experiments to determine effective methods of carbon recovery from ash and slag waste. The results confirmed the significant potential of ash and slag waste from the Bishkek coal-fired thermal power plant for reuse in the heat and power industry. Analysis of the chemical components revealed the content of unburned coal particles within 10-11%, and the content of water-soluble sulphur and sulphuric acid compounds ranged from 0.18% to 0.71%. Experimental data confirmed the importance of the fractionation of ash and slag by particle size, which makes it possible to further separate coal fractions with different physical properties. The fraction of less than 150 microns is characterised by a low carbon content (less than 2.5%), which makes it suitable for use in construction as a fine aggregate. However, the study noted that fractions larger than 150 microns, and especially those larger than 300 microns, are a valuable feedstock for the production of carbon concentrate with a carbon content of more than 75%, which opens up the prospects for its use in the production of water-coal fuel. Thus, the results of the study confirm the potential of ash and slag waste for reuse in the heat and power industry. This can help to reduce waste, reduce the negative impact on the environment, and create efficient and sustainable production processes in the heat and power industry