Analysis of the Wetting Behavior and Kinetic Mechanism of Non-Ionic Surfactants on the Micro Interface of Coal: A Case Study

This study addresses the issue of varying the wetting effects of surfactants in coal dust control. Utilizing low-field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF-NMR) experiments and molecular dynamics (MD) simulations, it reveals the microscopic wetting mechanism of nonionic surfactant fatty alcohol polyoxyethylene ether (JFCS) on different coal ranks. The results indicate that JFCS can reduce the attractive forces between molecules on the coal surface, promoting the diffusion of water molecules at the coal interface. The wetting effect of JFCS on lignite is superior to that on bituminous coal. The wetting range and diffusion rate of water molecules in the surfactant system were obtained, elucidating the microscopic wetting mechanism and influencing the laws of different coal ranks under the action of surfactants. This provides excellent theoretical guidance for coal seam water injection dust prevention, improves the effectiveness and pertinence of mine dust control, and contributes to the improvement of cleaner production levels in mines.