Speaker
Mr
Jakobus Hoffman
(Necsa)
Description
Density information is crucial in optimizing industrial important processes such as coal processing and there are a plethora of methods to obtain this information. One such accepted method is float-and-sink analysis during the modelling of coal washability which is expensive, time consuming and environmentally hazardous. The density information obtained is also not in real-time and consequently some inaccuracies are inevitable. Image analysis for coal washability modelling from basic unprocessed rock-face photographs is a technique that enjoys significant research investment due to the speed and ease of obtaining modelling data using only a camera. It is debatable how well the image analysis modelling approximates the reality of a complex and heterogeneous coal seam and thus requires verification with alternate reliable techniques such as micro-focus X-ray tomography. X-ray imaging is based on the X-ray absorption properties of materials having different densities. However, for 3D tomographic analysis a complete density analysis is difficult and requires extensive post-processing. This presentation describes a method using micro-focus X-ray tomography to validate mineral density results obtained from image analysis modelling of photographs of rock faces. This method consist of a calibration technique that accurately connects mineral densities with X-ray absorption images. For future work 3D Micro XCT results will be compared to conventional float-and-sink analysis.
Level for award<br> (Hons, MSc, <br> PhD, N/A)?
N/A
Apply to be<br> considered for a student <br> award (Yes / No)?
No
Would you like to <br> submit a short paper <br> for the Conference <br> Proceedings (Yes / No)?
No
Primary author
Mr
Jakobus Hoffman
(Necsa)
Co-author
Mr
Frikkie De Beer
(Necsa)
