Effect of Potassium on the Co-Combustion Process of Coal Slime and Corn Stover

In this study, the combined combustion characteristics and gaseous product emissions of coal slime and corn stover were compared at different blending ratios. The TG-DTG curves indicate that the optimal performance is achieved when the corn straw blending ratio is 20%. Furthermore, the TG-FTIR coupling results demonstrated an increase in gas species as the blending ratio increased. The composition analysis of ash samples formed at various combustion temperatures using XRD and XRF indicated that a portion of KCl in the fuel was released as volatile matter, while another part reacted with Al2O3 and SiO2 components in the slime to form silica–aluminate compounds and other substances. Notably, interactions between the components of slime and potassium elements in corn stover primarily occurred within the temperature range of 800–1000 °C. These findings contribute to a comprehensive understanding of biomass and coal co-firing combustion chemistry, offering potential applications for enhancing energy efficiency and reducing emissions in industrial processes.