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.