The effect of weathering on the 1600 cm^-1 band of bituminous coal

Abstract

The 1600 cm^-1 band intensities in the infrared spectra of Australian bituminous coals, of a range of rank, exposed to natural weathering conditions have been monitored over a period of 11 months. Periodic increases and decreases in intensity were observed under these conditions. The results of a subsequent oxidation study at 353 K suggest that some of the observed changes may be due to changes in radical concentrations.