The detection of weathering in coal by petrographic, rheologic and chemical methods

Abstract

This study examines petrographic, rheologic, proximate and ultimate analyses techniques, to investigate the effects of natural weathering on coal. The applicability of such tests to both the detection of weathering and to the prediction of the properties of a fresh coal, based upon analyses of a weathered sample, is discussed. Rheologic parameters and a petrographic staining technique showed the most sensitive response to weathering. The latter test is considered the most suitable of these for the detection of weathering, as it is independent of prior knowledge of the properties of the fresh coal and of the petrographic composition. A petrographic approach is also considered most suitable for estimation of fresh coal characteristics from weathered samples. Rank may be closely approximated and petrographic type determined microscopically, even on highly weathered samples, and these two parameters may be used to estimate properties such as volatile matter, calorific value and dilatation. Minor modification should be made to vitrinite reflectance measurements, according to the degree of weathering as revealed by selective staining.