In the present study, lignite samples of Amynteon lignite field, as well as
fly ash and bottom ash samples of Amynteon power station were analyzed for
their trace elements content. Chemical analyses were performed by ICP-AES
for the elements Sb, Ba, B, Cd, Cr, Co, Cu, Pb, Mo, Ni and Zn and by XRF fo
r Mn, P and F. Trace elements content of lignite samples were correlated wi
th relative ash content in order to determine the geochemical affinity of t
he elements. An inorganic affinity was found for the elements Ni and Cu, wh
ile an organic affinity was indicated for F and an intermediate affinity fo
r the elements Ba, B, Cd, Co, Cr, Mn, Mo, Pb, P, Sb and Zn. Relative enrich
ment factors were also estimated so as to classify elements according to th
eir partitioning during coal combustion. It is concluded that the elements
Sb, B, Ba, Ni, Zn and Cd may be partially volatilized and thus not enriched
in the solid residues, while Cr, Co, Cu, Pb and Mo rather condense within
the installation and Mn is not depleted nor enriched.