An investigation of the fluorescence of British bituminous coals: the analysis of fluorescent spectra of coal macerals

Abstract

Two British Bituminous coals (Cortonwood and Frickly) were separated using 'float and sink' techniques into their respective macerals. The fluorescent excitation and emission spectra of the pyridine extracts of these maceral groups are investigated along with the respective synchronous fluorescence spectra. The effect of concentration on the fluorescence of these extracts and comparisons to model compounds is also reported. All spectra including the simplified synchronous spectra are compared and correlated, so conclusions can be drawn. The effect of sodium hypochlorite is also investigated along with ultra-violet spectra and comparisons to text and standard spectra. From these comparisons the theories related to the fluorescence of coal macerals are discussed.