Trace elements contained in coal escape with flue gas from energy sources into the air or move

towards other components of the environment with by-products captured in electrofilters (EF) and flue gas

desulphurisation (FGD) plants. The existing knowledge about the distribution of frequently dangerous trace

elements contained in these products is insufficient. Studies were therefore undertaken in selected power plants

to investigate the distribution of trace elements in coal, slag, as well as dust containment and flue gas desulphurisation products, such as fly ash captured in dust collectors, desulphurisation gypsum and semi-dry scrubbing

FGD products. Using the technique of flame atomic absorption spectrometry (F-AAS) and mercury analyser,

the following were determined in the research material samples: Cr, Cu, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn. The studies

have a reconnaissance character. The authors have presented the results of determinations for selected trace

elements in samples taken at Jaworzno III and Siersza Power Plants, which burn hard coal, and in Bełchatów

Power Plant, burning brown coal. A balance of the examined trace elements in a stream of coal fed into the

boiler and in streams of waste and products carried away from the plant was prepared. The balance based on

the results of analyses from Bełchatów Power Plant was considered encouraging enough to undertake further

investigations. The research confirmed that due to the distribution in the process of coal combustion and flue

gas treatment, a dominant part of particular trace elements’ stream moves with solid waste and products, while

air emission is marginal. Attention was paid to the importance of research preparation, the manner of sample

taking and selection of analytical methods.