Investigation of the physicochemical properties of brown coal and the humic acids derived from it

Abstract

Background and Aim. This study represents a comparative analysis of the properties of humic acids obtained from brown coals of the Kumuskudyk and Kuznetsk deposits.

Materials and Мethods. Infrared spectroscopy, elemental analysis, and thermogravimetric analysis were employed in this research.

Results. A comprehensive study of humic acids from two different deposits was conducted, allowing for the identification of differences in their chemical composition, functional groups, thermal stability and reactivity. Comparative analysis revealed unique features of humic acids linked to the geological conditions of coal formation of each deposit. The study identified variations in the number of carboxyl and hydroxyl groups, which directly influence their sorption and complexation properties. Such differences had not been previously studied in detail for these deposits. Additionally, the research demonstrated that humic acids from both deposits possess significant potential for applications in ecology, agrochemistry, agriculture, and wastewater treatment, through their effectiveness may vary depending on the deposit and the composition of functional groups.

Conclusion. These findings open new prospects for the development of technologies based on humic acids and provide deeper insights into the influence of geological factors on their chemical structure and properties.