Free swelling index determination

The free swelling index (FSI) was determined on each of the size fractions for the top samples the values ranged from 5% to 9, whereas the bottom size fractions ranged from 6% to 9 (see Table I). In each case the lowest values occur in the intermediate size fractions—namely, those ranging from 2X1% inch to % X Vfe inch. These show a rough relationship with the increase in fusinite and semifusinite and the decrease in vitrinite in these... 

In ordar to determine the effect of coal rank (at established by reflectance measurement of vitrinite in coal) on the reactions of coal as related to carbonization, gasification, combustion, and other processes, a wide range of bituminous coals were studied. The results show that reflectance measurements can be used effectively (1) to determine accurately yields of coal carbonization products such as coke, tar, gas, light oil, and liquor from pilot and commercial coke oven (2) to obtain the heating value and specific gravity properties of gases from these processes (3) to determine the free swelling index and B.t.u. content of coals ... 

In another test method (ASTM D-5515), a dilatometer is used to measure the swelling of bituminous coal. The test method is limited in applicability to coal that has a free swelling index < 1 (ASTM D-720). The principle of this test method is that the final volume of char obtained at the conclusion of a standard dilatation test is dependent on the mass of coal in the coal pencil and on the radius of the retort tube. This test method incorporates a procedure that determines the mass of air-dried coal in the coal pencil, provides a means to measure the average retort tube radii and employs a means to report coal expansion on an air-dried coal weight basis. The value of the dilatation properties of coals may be used to predict or explain the behavior of a coal or blends during carbonization or in other processes, such as gasification and combustion. 

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