Designation: D 121 – 08

Standard Terminology of
Coal and Coke1
This standard is issued under the fixed designation D 121; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (e) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.

1. Scope D 2799 Test Method for Microscopical Determination of

1.1 This terminology defines the technical terms used in the Maceral Composition of Coal
standards that are the responsibility of Committee D05 on Coal D 2961 Test Method for Single-Stage Total Moisture Less
and Coke. The terms are used in: than 15 % in Coal Reduced to 2.36-mm (No. 8 Sieve)
1.1.1 The sampling of coal and coke under conditions Topsize
required for most commercial and technical purposes related to D 3172 Practice for Proximate Analysis of Coal and Coke
coal and coke. D 3173 Test Method for Moisture in the Analysis Sample of
1.1.2 Bias and related statistical testing, Coal and Coke
1.1.3 The description of coal, both visually in the field and D 3174 Test Method for Ash in the Analysis Sample of Coal
microscopically in the laboratory, and Coke from Coal
1.1.4 Chemical and physical analyses of coal and coke, D 3175 Test Method for Volatile Matter in the Analysis
1.1.5 Classification of coal, and Sample of Coal and Coke
1.1.6 Certain other related practices and guides applicable D 3176 Practice for Ultimate Analysis of Coal and Coke
to the coal and coke industries. D 3180 Practice for Calculating Coal and Coke Analyses
from As-Determined to Different Bases
2. Referenced Documents D 3302 Test Method for Total Moisture in Coal
2.1 ASTM Standards: 2 D 4371 Test Method for Determining the Washability Char-
D 388 Classification of Coals by Rank acteristics of Coal
D 720 Test Method for Free-Swelling Index of Coal D 4596 Practice for Collection of Channel Samples of Coal
D 1412 Test Method for Equilibrium Moisture of Coal at 96 in a Mine
to 97 Percent Relative Humidity and 30°C D 4749 Test Method for Performing the Sieve Analysis of
D 1857 Test Method for Fusibility of Coal and Coke Ash Coal and Designating Coal Size
D 2013 Practice for Preparing Coal Samples for Analysis D 4916 Practice for Mechanical Auger Sampling
D 2234/D 2234M Practice for Collection of a Gross Sample D 5061 Test Method for Microscopical Determination of
of Coal the Textural Components of Metallurgical Coke
D 2361 Test Method for Chlorine in Coal D 5114 Test Method for Laboratory Froth Flotation of Coal
D 2795 Test Methods for Analysis of Coal and Coke Ash3 in a Mechanical Cell
D 2797 Practice for Preparing Coal Samples for Micro- D 5192 Practice for Collection of Coal Samples from Core
scopical Analysis by Reflected Light D 5263 Test Method for Determining the Relative Degree
D 2798 Test Method for Microscopical Determination of of Oxidation in Bituminous Coal by Alkali Extraction
the Vitrinite Reflectance of Coal D 5515 Test Method for Determination of the Swelling
Properties of Bituminous Coal Using a Dilatometer
D 5865 Test Method for Gross Calorific Value of Coal and
1
This terminology is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee D05 on Coal Coke
and Coke and is the direct responsibility of Subcommittee D05.30 on Quality D 6316 Test Method for Determination of Total, Combus-
Assurance.
Current edition approved Feb. 15, 2008. Published April 2008. Originally tible and Carbonate Carbon in Solid Residues from Coal
approved in 1921. Last previous edition approved in 2007 as D 121 – 07. and Coke
2
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or D 6518 Practice for Bias Testing a Mechanical Coal Sam-
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
pling System
the ASTM website. E 177 Practice for Use of the Terms Precision and Bias in
3
Withdrawn. ASTM Test Methods

Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959, United States.

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 D 121 – 08
E 456 Terminology Relating to Quality and Statistics which it leaves the mine property or loading facility.
D 4749
3. Terminology
attrital coal—See attrital coal under coal.
air-dried moisture—this term has been used inappropriately to auger increment, n—the retained portion of one extraction
refer to both residual moisture and air-dry loss. Because of operation of the auger. D 4916
the potential for confusion, this term shall not be used. banded coal—See banded coal under coal.
air drying, n—a process of partial drying of coal to bring its basis—See reporting bases.
moisture near to equilibrium with the atmosphere in the bed moisture—synonym for inherent moisture.
room in which further reduction and division of the sample beehive coke—See beehive coke under coke.
will take place. D 2013; D 2234/D 2234M bias, n—the difference between the population mean of the test
air-dry loss, n—in coal, the loss in mass, expressed as a results and an accepted reference value.
percentage, resulting from each air-drying stage or the sum
of all sequential air-drying stages in which the results from DISCUSSION—Bias is a systematic error as contrasted to random error.
each stage are adjusted to the as-received basis. There may be one or more systematic error components contributing to
the bias. A larger systematic difference from the accepted reference
DISCUSSION—Air-dry loss is neither a standard state nor a character-
value is reflected by a larger bias value. E 456; E 6518
isetic property of a coal. Air drying only removes water that can
evaporate at or near ambient laboratory conditions, leaving in the coal binder phase, n—as used in Test Method D 5061, a continuous
some fraction of the inherent moisture that is more tightly bound in the solid carbon matrix formed during the thermoplastic defor-
pores (residual moisture). Different laboratory environments or differ-
ent drying temperatures or both will result in significant differences in
mation of those coal macerals that become plastic during
air-dry loss and residual moisture. D 3302 carbonization.

agglomerating, adj—as applied to coal, the property of DISCUSSION—The binder phase material is formed from the thermo-
plastic deformation of reactive (vitrinite and liptinite) and semi-inert
softening when it is heated to above about 400°C in a (semifusinite) coal macerals of metallurgical bituminous coals. During
nonoxidizing atmosphere, and then appearing as a coherent thermoplasticity, the inert coal maceral and mineral are partly or wholly
mass after cooling to room temperature. incorporated into the binder phase. Also, most of the coke pores are
alginite—See alginite under maceral. located in the binder phase. D 5061
analysis sample—See analysis sample under sample.
angle of repose, n—the greatest angle, measured from hori- bituminous class—See bituminous class under rank.
zontal, attained by a coal so that material on the sides of top boghead coal—See boghead coal under coal.
of the inverted cone or trench created in car top sampling bone coal—See bone coal under coal.
remains stable, that is, will not shift or slide. Coal size and borehole, n—the circular hole through soil and rock strata
moisture content are contributing factors to this angle. In all made by boring.
cases, the coal shall be dug so that the physical angle is less bottomsize, nominal—for the purpose of Test Method D 4749,
than the angle of repose. the sieve designating the lower limit or bottomsize shall be
anisotropic, adj—as used in Test Method D 5061, exhibiting that sieve of the series given in the Standard Series of Sieves
optical properties of different values when viewed with an section with the largest openings through which passes a
optical microscope having mutually exclusive polarized total of less than 15 % of the sample. This defined bottom-
light, for example, crossed nicols. D 5061 size is not to be confused with the size of the smallest
anthracite—See anthracite under rank. particles in the lot.
anthracitic class—See anthracitic class under rank.
apparent rank, n—of coal, the rank designation obtained on DISCUSSION—(Warning—In the case of a commercial, double-
screened product, for example, 37.5 by 9.5 mm (11⁄2 by 3⁄8 in.), this
samples other than channel samples, but otherwise conform- designation may not be valid. In such commercial or contractual
ing to procedures of Classification D 388. situations, the amount of allowable material smaller than the bottom-
as-analyzed moisture—synonym for as-determined moisture. size (for example, 9.5 mm) must be specified by the contract under
as-determined basis—See as-determined basis under report- which the coal is bought and solid.) D 4749
ing bases.
ash, n—inorganic residue remaining after ignition of combus- briquette, n—a cylindrical block composed of granulated coal
tible substances, determined by definite prescribed methods. or coke particles compressed and embedded with an epoxy
binder.
DISCUSSION—Ash need not be identical, in composition or quantity,
with the inorganic substances present in the material before ignition. by-product coke—See by-product coke under coke.
In the case of coal and coke, the methods used shall be those C test, n—a standard statistical test for homogeneity of
prescribed in Test Method D 3174. variance.
as-mined coal—for the purpose of Test Method D 4749, same calorific value, n—the heat of combustion of a unit quantity of
as run-of-mine (ROM) coal. D 4749 a substance.
as-received basis—See as-received basis under reporting DISCUSSION—It is expressed in ASTM test methods in British thermal
bases. D 3180 units per pound (Btu/lb). Calorific value can also be expressed in
as-shipped or produced coal—for the purpose of Test Method calories per gram (cal/g) or in the International System of Units, joules
D 4749, raw or prepared coal in any state or condition at per gram (J/g), when required. D 5865

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 D 121 – 08
calorimeter, n—as used in Test Method D 5865, the bomb and of physical and chemical alteration after burial. See Classification
its contents, the calorimeter vessel with stirrer, the water in D 388 for classification of coal in accordance with its degree of
which the bomb is immersed, and the portions of the alteration or rank. The moisture content and the kind, amount, and
mode of occurrence of mineral matter also vary greatly.
thermometer and the ignition leads within the calorimeter
vessel. D 5865 lithotype, n— any of the constituents of banded coal: vitrain,
calorimeter jacket, n—the insulating medium surrounding the fusain, clarain, durain, or attrital coal or a specific mixture of
calorimeter. two or more of these.
cannel coal—See cannel coal under coal. banded coal, n—coal that is visibly heterogeneous in com-
carbonate carbon, n—the carbon content present in the solid position, being composed of layers of vitrain and attrital
products derived from the combustion or reaction of coal, coal, and, commonly, fusain.
coal by-products, or coke as carbonates and which is attrital coal, n—the ground mass or matrix of banded coal in
noncombustible in standard industry practice. D 6316 which vitrain and, commonly, fusain layers as well, are
carbon form, n—as used in Test Method D 5061, microscopi- embedded or enclosed.
cally distinguishable carbonaceous textural components of
DISCUSSION—Layers in banded coal, often referred to as bands, are
coke, but excluding mineral carbonates. commonly 1 to 30 mm thick. Attrital coal in banded coal is highly
DISCUSSION—Carbon forms are recognized on the basis of their varied in composition and appearance, its luster varying from a
reflectance, anisotropy, and morphology. They are derived from the brilliance nearly equal to that of the associated vitrain to nearly as dull
organic portion of coal and can be anisotropic or isotropic. D 5061 as fusain; it exhibits striated, granulose, or rough texture. In a few
cases, relatively thick layers of such attrital coal are found that contain
caves or washouts, n—zones of increased hole diameter no interbedded vitrain. Nonbanded coal also is attrital coal but is not
caused by rock fragments that fall from the walls of a usually referred to as such. In contrast to the coarser and more variable
texture of attrital coal in banded coal, nonbanded coal is notably
borehole and can block the hole or contaminate the cuttings
uniform and fine in texture, being derived from size-sorted plant debris.
and which erode or abrade the sidewall of the borehole by The luster of attrital coal, which ranges from bright (but less than that
the action of the drilling. These zones can affect the accuracy of associated vitrain) to dull, is commonly used to describe and
of certain geophysical logs (especially density). Corrections characterize attrital coal. As an alternative, some petrographers subdi-
to other geophysical logs can be made if a caliper log is vide attrital coal into clarain and durain. Clarain has bright luster and
available. The most common causes of caves or washouts silky texture, being finely striated parallel to the coal bedding. Durain
include soft or fractured lithologies, the presence of water- has dull luster and sometimes is referred to as dull coal. Similarly, coal
consisting of vitrain or clarain or a mixture of the two is sometimes
producing zones, and the downhole pressure of the drilling referred to as bright coal.
medium (fluid or air) that often causes differential erosion of
various strata within the borehole. fusain, n—coal layers composed of chips and other frag-
chance error, n—error that has equal probability of being ments in which the original form of plant tissue structure is
positive or negative. The mean of the chance errors resulting preserved; commonly has fibrous texture with a very dull
from a series of observations tends toward zero as the luster.
number of observations approaches infinity. DISCUSSION—Fusain is very friable and resembles charcoal. Com-
circular anisotropic phase, n—as used in Test Method monly, it is concentrated in bedding layers or lenses that form planes of
D 5061, a group of binder-phase anisotropic carbon textures weakness in coal and thus is often exposed on bedding surfaces of
that are distinguished by approximately circular domains broken coal. The many pores (cell cavities and cracks) of fusain are
(that is length equals width) and composed of fine circular sometimes filled with mineral matter.
(0.5- to 1.0-µm), medium circular (1.0- to 1.5-µm), and vitrain, n—shiny black bands, thicker than 0.5 mm, of
coarse circular (1.5- to 2.0-µm) size categories. D 5061 subbituminous and higher rank banded coal.
cleat, n—the joint system of coal seams, usually oriented
normal or nearly normal to the bedding. DISCUSSION—Vitrain, attributed to the coalification of relatively large
fragments of wood and bark, may range up to about 30 mm (approxi-
DISCUSSION—Cleat is most commonly found in bituminous coal, mately 1 in.) thick in eastern North American coals, but may be much
being most prominently developed in vitrain bands and bright layers. thicker in the younger western deposits. Vitrain is commonly traversed
Some cleat, especially the more widely separated joints, extend through by many fine cracks oriented normal to the banding.
all or a large part of the seam. Cleat surfaces are commonly coated with In lignite, the remains of woody material lack the shiny luster of
minerals such as calcite, kaolinite, and pyrite. vitrain in the higher rank coals and may instead be called previtrain. It
is differentiated from attrital bands of lignite by its smoother texture,
coal, n—a brown to black combustible sedimentary rock (in often showing the grain of wood. Previtrain may be several inches
the geological sense) composed principally of consolidated thick.
and chemically altered plant remains.
nonbanded coal, n—consistently fine-granular coal essen-
DISCUSSION—Conditions required for formation of coal are believed tially devoid of megascopic layers.
to include accumulation of plant remains and their partial decomposi-
tion under moist conditions, followed by sedimentary burial and DISCUSSION—Nonbanded coal may be interbedded with common
subjection to increased pressure and temperature according to the banded coal, or form a discrete layer at the top or at the bottom of the
geological history of the seam. Coals exhibit a wide range of properties seam, or may compose the entire seam. It is formed from natural
as a result of differences in the kinds and relative amounts of different accumulations of finely comminuted plant detritus and commonly
plant materials and intermixed mineral matter, the amount of alteration includes a significant amount and variety of remains of pollen grains,
of the plant remains achieved before burial, and especially the degree spores, planktonic algae, wax and resin granules, as well as other

3
 D 121 – 08
fragments of plants. These materials, containing markedly higher from coke as taken from the ovens, of a size varied in local
amounts of volatile matter than vitrain and some other attrital compo- practice but usually passing a 12.7-mm (1⁄2-in.) or 19.0-mm
nents, are more abundant in this variety of coal than they are in (3⁄4-in.) screen opening.
common types of banded coal. Also, nonbanded coal may contain more
disseminated detrital mineral matter, chiefly clay, than associated
dry coke, n—a laboratory term applied to coke that has been
banded coals, and in the field it may be difficult to distinguish from dried to constant weight in accordance with definite pre-
bone coal. Nonbanded coal is much less common than banded coal in scribed methods.
North America.
DISCUSSION—The methods used shall be those for the determination
cannel coal, n—nonbanded coal in which the liptinite is of moisture prescribed in Test Method D 3302. In the case of lump
predominantly sporinite. coke, the temperature shall be not less than 104°C nor more than
200°C; in the case of coke passing a 250-µm (No. 60) sieve, the
DISCUSSION—Transitions between cannel and boghead, that is, coals temperature shall be not less than 104°C nor more than 110°C for a
containing both types of liptinite, are also known. Microscopic exami- period of 1 h.
nation is essential for differentiation of the two kinds of nonbanded coal
and their transitions. coke pore, n—as used in Test Method D 5061, a microscopi-
cally distinguishable void that is a structural element of
boghead coal, n—nonbanded coal in which the liptinite (the coke. D 5061
waxy component) is predominantly alginite.
impure coal, n—coal having 25 weight % or more, but less DISCUSSION—Coke pores are considered to be nearly spherical-
than 50 weight %, of ash on the dry basis. shaped voids created by the entrapment of gaseous volatiles during the
solidification of thermoplastic coal. However, other types of voids can
DISCUSSION—Bone coal with more than 50 weight % ash is properly be distinguished in coke that include fractures or cracks, interconnected
called coaly or carbonaceous shale or siltstone. Types of impure coal and elongated pores, and the open cell lumens of fusinite and
other than bone coal and mineralized coal sometimes occur, for semifusinite. The size and shape of the voids are coal rank and grade,
example, sandy coal. and to some degree, process dependent. Pore sizes vary from tens of

bone coal, n—impure coal that contains much clay or other angstroms to tens of millimetres in any given coke. D 5061
fine-grained detrital mineral matter. coke reactivity, n—as used in Test Method D 5061, a measure
mineralized coal, n—impure coal that is heavily impreg- of the mass loss when coke, held at a designated tempera-
nated with mineral matter, either dispersed or discretely ture, is contacted with gaseous carbon dioxide over a specific
localized along cleat joints or other fissures. Pyritic or time interval. D 5061
calcareous mineralized coal is most common. coke wall, n—as used in Test Method D 5061, a predominantly
coal seam, n—the stratum, layer, or bed of coal that lies carbonaceous layer that encloses a coke pore and which is a
between two other rock layers whose compositions differ structural element and essence of coke. D 5061
significantly from that of coal. collector, n—a reagent used in froth flotation to promote
coal washability, n—the determination of the theoretical limits contact and adhesion between particles and air bubbles.
for the removal of mineral impurities from coal by benefi- D 5114
ciation processes that rely on specific gravity separations. combustible carbon, n—carbon content remaining in the solid
D 4371 products derived from the combustion or reaction of coal,
coarse coal, n—that portion of a coal sample being sub- coal by-products, or coke, exclusive of carbonate in any
jected to a washability study that is larger than a specific form. D 6316
predetermined particle size, generally between 2.36 mm combustibles, n—the value obtained by subtracting the dry
(No. 8 USA Standard Sieve Series) and 9.5 mm (3⁄8 in.) weight (in percent) of the ash (as determined in Test Method
round in diameter. D 3174) from 100 % representing original weight of ana-
DISCUSSION—This same particle size breakpoint should then be used lyzed sample. D 5114
in subsequent washability studies of the same material sampled from concentrate, n—the froth product recovered in coal froth
the same location for the same application. This breakpoint is deter- flotation. D 5114
mined by the analyst or the person designing the test procedure as the concretion, n—in a geological sense, a mass of mineral matter
point that best suits the application. This coarse-coal fraction may be found in rock of a composition different from its own and
further sieved (generally by dry sieving) to produce additional size
produced by deposition from aqueous solution in the rock.
fractions, each of which may be processed through the desired specific
conditioning agents, n—all chemicals that enhance the per-
gravity solutions. D 4371
formance of the collectors or frothers. Conditioning agents
coke—a carbonaceous solid produced from coal, petroleum, or change the characteristics of the surface of the minerals or
other materials by thermal decomposition with passage the environment. There are many subgroups according to
through a plastic state. their function: activators, depressants, emulsifiers, dispers-
beehive coke, n—coke manufactured in beehive, rectangular, ants, flocculants, chelating reagents, froth depressants, pH
or similar forms of ovens in a horizontal bed, where heat for modifiers, etc. D 5114
the coking process is secured by combustion within the oven core, n—in drilling, a cylindrical section of rock (coal) that is
chamber. usually 5 to 10 cm in diameter, taken as part of the interval
by-product coke, n—coke manufactured with attendant re- penetrated by a core bit and brought to the surface for
covery of by-products, in ovens that are heated externally. geologic examination, representative sampling and labora-
coke breeze, n—the fine screenings from crushed coke or tory analyses.

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 D 121 – 08
core barrels, n—two nested tubes above the bit of a core drill, dry sieving—for the purpose of Test Method D 4749, the test
the outer rotating with the bit, the inner receiving and method for the sieving of coal after the sample has been
preserving a continuous section or core of the material airdried under prescribed conditions; this is generally used
penetrated. The following two types of inner barrels are when testing with coal particles larger than 600 µm (No. 30
commonly used. U.S.A. Standard Sieve Series.) D 4749
split-tube barrel, n—a type of inner barrel consisting of two easily oxidized coals, n—low rank coals such as subbitumi-
longitudinal halves of pipe bound together by reinforced nous or lignitic coals. D 3302
tape at intervals along the barrel length that allows easy energy equivalent, heat capacity, or water equivalent,
access to a relatively intact core (by cutting the tape). (This n—the energy required to raise the temperature of the
is the preferred barrel type for coal exploration, where calorimeter an arbitrary unit. This is the quantity that, when
available.) multiplied by the corrected temperature rise, then adjusted
solid-tube barrel, n—a type of inner barrel consisting of a for extraneous heat effects, and divided by the weight of the
single solid-walled length of pipe in which removal of the sample, gives the gross calorific value.
core is accomplished by mechanical or hydraulic pressure at
DISCUSSION—Energy units for quantities listed throughout this test
one end of the pipe thus extruding the core onto a core tray.
method are such that the number of energy units per gram of sample
(The core is likely to be less intact than when a split-tube corresponds exactly to the number of British thermal units per pound of
barrel is used.) sample. For brevity, these are referred to as British thermal units. The
core sample, n—that part of a core of rock or coal obtained so actual energies are smaller than those stated by the ratio of the number
as to represent accurately a thickness of a unit penetrating by of pounds per gram (1/453.59). The energy equivalent of the calorim-
drilling. D 5192 eter has the units (British thermal units per pound) times (grams per
degree). Time is expressed in minutes. Mass is expressed in grams.
corrected temperature rise, n—the temperature of the calo-
rimeter, caused by the process that occurs inside the bomb; D 5865
that is, the observed temperature change corrected for equilibrium, n—condition reached in air drying in which
various effects. change in weight of the sample, under conditions of ambient
DISCUSSION—Temperature is measured in either degrees Celsius or temperature and humidity, is no more than 0.1 %/h or
degrees Fahrenheit. Thermometer corrections should be applied. Tem- 0.05 %/1⁄2 h. D 3302
peratures may be recorded in ohms or other arbitrary units instead of equilibrium moisture basis—See equilibrium moisture basis
degrees. Consistent units must be used in standardization and the actual under reporting bases.
calorific value determination. If arbitrary units other than degrees
Celsius or Fahrenheit are used, the temperature interval over which all
error—difference of an observation from the best obtainable
tests are made must not vary so much that an error greater than 0.001°C estimate of the true value. D 2234/D 2234M; D 4916
would be caused. D 5865 excess moisture—synonym for surface moisture.
exinite—See exinite under maceral.
cutinite—See cutinite under maceral. extraneous moisture—synonym for surface moisture.
depositional carbon, n—as used in Test Method D 5061, a filler phase, n—as used in Test Method D 5061, a discontinu-
group of carbon forms that are formed from cracking and ous solid formed from coal macerals and minerals that do not
nucleation of gas-phase hydrocarbon molecules during coal deform thermoplastically during carbonization. D 5061
carbonization. D 5061
pyrolytic carbon, n—as used in Test Method D 5061, an DISCUSSION—The filler phase material is formed from coal macerals
anisotropic carbon form that is formed by the deposition of that are inert with respect to development of thermoplasticity (iner-
tinite), the inorganic components of coal (minerals), as well as normally
carbon parallel to an inert substrate causing the resulting reactive coal entities that are noncoking or have been rendered inert by
texture to appear ribbon-like. D 5061 thermal oxidation, natural weathering, or brecciation. These inert
sooty carbon, n—as used in Test Method D 5061, an materials possess their original morphologies, but their reflectance and
isotropic carbon form comprised of approximately spherical chemical properties have been altered prior to or during carbonization.
particles of less than 1-µm diameter sometimes referred to as D 5061
combustion black. D 5061
spherulitic carbon, n—as used in Test Method D 5061, a fine coal, n—that portion of a coal sample being subject to
spherical anisotropic carbon form sometimes referred to as a washability study that is smaller than the predetermined
thermal black that is formed by the deposition of carbon particle size, generally between 2.36 mm (No. 8 USA
concentrically around a nucleus. D 5061 Standard Sieve Series) and 9.5 mm (3⁄8 in.) round in
diameter, which is specified in Test Method D 4371.
divided sample—See divided sample under sample.
domain, n—as used in Test Method D 5061, a region of DISCUSSION—This same particle size breakpoint should then be used
anisotropy in a carbon form that is distinctively marked by in subsequent washability studies of the same material samples from
its isochromatic boundary and cleavage. D 5061 the same location for the same application. This breakpoint is deter-
mined by the analyst or the person designing the test procedure as the
dry, ash-free basis—See dry, ash-free basis under reporting point that best suits the application. This fine-coal fraction may be
bases. further sieved (generally by wet sieving) to produce additional size
dry basis—See dry basis under reporting bases. fractions, each of which is processed through the desired specific
dry coke—See dry coke under coke. gravity solutions. D 4371

5
 D 121 – 08
fixed carbon, n—in the case of coal, coke, and bituminous geophysical logs which are affected by borehole size (espe-
materials, the solid residue other than ash, obtained by cially density).
destructive distillation, determined by definite prescribed density log (gamma-gamma log), n—measures electron
methods. density within lithologic units which is related to their bulk
density. The wireline tool records the intensity of gamma
DISCUSSION—It is made up principally of carbon but may contain
appreciable amounts of sulfur, hydrogen, nitrogen, and oxygen. radiation (in counts per second) from a nuclear source within
In the case of coal and coke, the methods used shall be those the tool after it has been attenuated and backscattered by
prescribed in Test Method D 3172. lithologies within the borehole. Due to the distinctly low
density of coals, the density log is essential in coal explo-
float/sink, n—a reference to the physical action that particles
ration for identifying coal seams and coal-seam partings.
undergo when immersed in a liquid of a predetermined
The bias/resolution of density logs can be affected by
specific gravity.
source-detector spacing (closer spacing increases resolu-
DISCUSSION—A series of float/sink tests is considered as being tion), borehole size, and irregularities (see caves or wash-
synonymous with a washability analysis. A float fraction or float outs), and the presence of casing and logging speed.
material is the material or the specific gravity fraction that floats in a natural gamma-ray log, n—a record of the natural radioac-
certain solution of specific gravity liquids. A sink fraction or sink
material is the material or the specific gravity fraction that sinks in a
tivity of the lithologies encountered in the borehole environ-
certain solution of specific gravity liquids. D 4371 ment. During recording of geophysical logs, the amount of
natural radiation is recorded and presented in either counts
floor, n—the rock material immediately underlying a coal bed. per second (CPS) or American Petroleum Institute (API)
flotation cell, n—the vessel or compartment in which the units. Unlike many other log types, a representative natural
flotation test is performed. D 5114 gamma log can be obtained where borehole or fluid condi-
fluid temperature (FT), n—in reference to the fusibility of tions, or both, are not optimal or where casing is present. The
coal and coke ash according to Test Method D 1857, the natural gamma log is most often used in the coal environ-
temperature at which the fused mass has spread out in a ment for identifying clastic lithologies and differentiating
nearly flat layer with a maximum height of 1.6 mm (1⁄16 in.). coal seams and coal-seam partings.
D 1857 resistivity log, n—a measure of the voltage differential of
free impurity, n—the impurities in a coal that exist as strata along the walls of a borehole when electrical current is
individual discrete particles that are not a structural part of passed through the strata. The resistivity log requires a
the coal and that can be separated from it by coal preparation fluid-filled hole to provide a conductive medium constantly
methods. D 2234/D 2234 between electrodes on the tool. The spacing between the
free moisture—synonym for surface moisture. electrodes determines the precision of the bed boundary
froth, n—a collection of bubbles and particles on the surface of relationships in much the same manner as with the density
a pulp in a froth flotation cell. D 5114 log. The resistivity log is useful primarily in conjunction
froth flotation, n—a process for cleaning fine coal in which with other log types. The logs are affected by casing, logging
hydrophobic particles, generally coal, attach to air bubbles in speed, electrode spacing, formation porosity, and resistivity
a water medium and rise to the surface to form a froth. The changes in the borehole fluid. D 5192
hydrophilic particles, generally the ash-forming matter, re- grade/recovery, n—the relationship between quality and
main in the water phase. D 5114 quantity of the clean coal product. The quality can be defined
frother, n—a reagent used in froth flotation to control the size in terms of ash, sulfur, or Btu content. The quantity can be
and stability of the air bubbles, principally by reducing the designated as yield or heating value recovery (Btu or
surface tension of water. D 5114 combustibles). D 5114
fusain—See fusain under coal. green coke, n—as used in Test Method D 5061, carbonaceous
fusinite—see fusinite under maceral. binder or filler phase material that has exceeded the tem-
funginite, n—See funginite under maceral. perature of thermoplasticity, but has not obtained the tem-
geophysical log, n—a graphic record of the measured or perature of metallurgical coke.
computed physical characteristics of the rock section en-
DISCUSSION—Green coke is recognized on the basis of relative
countered in a borehole, plotted as a continuous function of
reflectance in comparison to fully carbonized coke. Green coke exhibits
depth. Measurements are made by a sonde which contains varying degrees of lower reflectance than fully carbonized coke.
the detectors, as it is withdrawn from the borehole by a wire D 5061
line. Several measurements are usually made simulta-
neously, and the resulting curves are displayed side by side gross calorific value (gross heat of combustion at constant
on the common depth scale. A common suite of logs used in volume), Qv(gross) , n—the heat produced by combustion of
coal exploration include caliper, density (gamma-gamma), unit quantity of a solid or liquid fuel when burned at constant
natural gamma, and resistivity. volume in an oxygen bomb calorimeter under specified
caliper log, n—a continuous mechanical measurement of the conditions, with the resulting water condensed to a liquid.
diameter and thus the rugosity of the borehole. The tool DISCUSSION—The conditions are initial oxygen pressure of 2 and 4
identifies zones where swelling or cavings (washouts) have MPa (20 to 40 atm), initial and final temperatures between 20 and 35°C
occurred during drilling. The tool’s value is in allowing (68 to 95°F), products in the form of ash, water (aq), and gaseous
qualitative or quantitative corrections to be made to other carbon dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen.

6
 D 121 – 08
This definition is not applied to gaseous fuels and applies to a volatile distinguished by their lens-shaped domains (that is, length
liquid fuel only if it is suitably contained during the measurement so (L) to width (W) ratio of 2W < L < 4W) and subdivided based
that the vapor does not mix with the combustion oxygen before on domain widths as fine lenticular (1.0- to 3.0-µm), medium
combustion.
The gross calorific value is closely related to the internal energy of
lenticular (3.0- to 8.0-µm), and coarse lenticular (8.0- to
combustion for the same reaction at constant standard temperature and 12.0-µm) size categories. D 5061
pressure, DU°C(at t°C). It is of opposite sign and differs by a small lignite A—See lignite A under rank.
amount due to energy effects resulting from compression, temperature lignite B—See lignite B under rank.
differences from t, and solution effects that vary with combustion lignitic class—See lignitic class under rank.
conditions. Because of the variation of conditions allowed in the liptinite—See liptiniteunder macerals.
discussion above, the above definition does not lead to a unique value
lithotype, n—(1) Rock form defined on the basis of certain
for any given fuel. However, the specified conditions limit the possible
values to a narrow range for which approximate limits can be calculated selected physical characteristics. (2) One of the four macro-
for a given fuel. scopically recognized constituents of banded coal: vitrain,
clarain, durain and fusain. D 4596
gross sample—See gross sample under sample. lithology—(1) Physical character or a rock, generally as
heat capacity, n—Synonym for energy equivalent. determined megascopically or with the aid of a low power
hemispherical temperature (HT), n—in reference to the magnifier. (2) The macroscopic study and description of
fusibility of coal and coke ash according to Test Method rocks. D 5192
D 1857, the temperature at which the cone has fused down to lot, n—a discrete quantity of coal for which the overall quality
a hemispherical lump at which point the height is one half to a particular precision needs to be determined. D 2234/
the width of the base. D 1857 D 2234M
high volatile A bituminous coal—See high volatile A bitumi- low volatile bituminous coal—See low volatile bituminous
nous coal under rank. coal under rank.
high volatile B bituminous coal—See high volatile B bitumi- maceral, n—an organic substance in coal that is distinguished
nous coal under rank. and classified on the basis of its optical microscopic prop-
high volatile C bituminous coal—See high volatile C bitumi- erties.
nous coal under rank.
impure coal—See impure coal under coal. DISCUSSION—Macerals originate from plant tissues, secretions, and
exudates that have been altered by geological processes and may
incipient anisotropic phase, n—as used in Test Method contain up to several weight percent of inorganic elements in micro-
D 5061, a binder-phase carbon texture having a domain size scopically indistinguishable form.
(less than 0.5 µm) that is near the measuring resolution of the
light microscope. D 5061 alginite, n—a liptinite maceral that is generally spherical or
increment, n—a small portion of a lot collected by one ovoid, frequently having a crenulated border and somewhat
operation of a sampling device and normally combined with irregular reflectance and sometimes occurring in clusters
other increments from the lot to make a gross sample. reflecting an origin from Botryococcus algae.
D 2234/D 2234M; D 4916 DISCUSSION—Alginite often occurs as degraded fragments derived
inertinite—See inertinite under maceral. from colonial or unicellular bodies.
inertodetrinite—See inertodetrinite under maceral.
inherent ash, n—the residue remaining from the inherent cutinite, n—a liptinite maceral in the form of a sheet
impurities after ignition under conditions specified for the reflecting its origin from leaf- or twig-covering plant cuticle,
ash determination. D 2234/D 2234M frequently exhibiting reticulation in planar section and a
inherent impurity, n—the inorganic material in coal that is serrated edge in cross section.
structurally part of the coal and cannot be separated from it exinite—Deprecated term. Use preferred term liptinite;
by coal preparation methods. D 2234/D 2234M sometimes has also been used as a synonym for sporinite.
inherent moisture—See inherent moisture under moisture. fusinite, n—an inertinite maceral distinguished principally
initial deformation temperature (IT), n—in reference to the by the preservation of some feature(s) of the plant cell wall
fusibility of coal and coke ash according to Test Method structure, and with a particle size greater than 50 µm except
D 1857, the temperature at which the first rounding of the when it occurs as a fragment within the binder matrix; see
apex of the cone occurs. Shrinkage or warping of the cone is also semifusinite.
ignored if the tip remains sharp. funginite, n—an inertinite maceral occurring as round or
isoperibol, adj—a term used in combustion calorimetry mean- ovoid bodies, frequently containing voids, reflecting an
ing constant temperature jacket (environment). origin from fungal sclerotia; also occurs (especially in lower
isotropic phase, n—as used in Test Method D 5061, a binder- rank coals) as interlaced, stringy materials derived from
phase carbon texture that exhibits optical properties that are fungal hyphae.
the same in all directions when viewed with an optical inertinite, n—macerals that exhibit higher reflectance than
microscope having mutually exclusive polarized light, for other organic substances in the coal.
example, crossed nicols. D 5061 DISCUSSION—In any coal ranked lower than anthracitic, inertinite
laboratory sample—See laboratory sample under sample. reflectance commonly spans the range from only slightly higher than
lenticular anisotropic phase, n—as used in Test Method associated vitrinite to very high reflectance (often as high as Ro > 6 %).
D 5061, a group of binder-phase anisotropic carbon textures In anthracitic rank coals, inertinite reflectance may be lower than that

7
 D 121 – 08
of vitrinite, and is then recognized by its morphology and form of DISCUSSION—Sporinite originated as a lipid substance that covered,
anisotropy. Highly reflecting inertinite commonly exhibits relief on as a skin, ovoid spore or pollen grains which commonly ranged from
polished surface. Its name derives from the fact that most varieties around ten to several hundred micrometres in diameter. Sporinite often
behave inertly in the thermoplastic deformation during the coking occurs as fragments derived from these initially ovoid bodies.
process (except in its lowest reflecting manifestation). The volatile
matter yield of inertinite is lower than that of other macerals in the same vitrinite, n—the predominant maceral in most coals of
coal. intermediate reflectance occurring as substantial volumes of
more or less uniformly reflecting material or as a matrix
inertodetrinite, n—an inertinite maceral occurring as indi-
enclosing particles of other macerals and mineral matter or
vidual, angular, clastic fragments incorporated within the
as particles or bands intermixed with other maceral frag-
matrix of other macerals (commonly vitrinite) or minerals,
ments.
and in the size range from 2 to 50 µm.
liptinite, n—macerals that exhibit lower reflectance than DISCUSSION—Because most vitrinite is derived from the cellular,
other organic substances in a coal, appearing black to dark structural tissues of plants, it may exhibit relict cell structure. The
gray and that fluoresce under blue to ultraviolet light in coals reflectance of vitrinite is related to the rank of the coal in which it is
found. Reflectance increases (from around Ro = 0.3 % in lignitic coals)
ranked high volatile bituminous and lower. in parallel with the increase in fixed carbon yield associated with
DISCUSSION—The fluorescence of liptinite distinguishes fine-grained increasing rank. Because many of the properties of typical coals reflect
liptinite from similar sized, low reflectance, nonfluorescing clay min- the properties of the dominating vitrinite, it is common practice to
erals. Liptinite is derived principally from lipid substances forming estimate coal properties and process behaviors by measuring the
skins (exines) and resinous secretions or exudates of plants. Liptinite is reflectance of a representative sampling of vitrinite in the specimen
subclassified on the basis of morphology inherited from plant structure. according to procedures described in Test Method D 2798. Pseudovit-
In coals in which vitrinite reflectance exceeds about 1.4 %, liptinite can rinite, a certain variety of vitrinite, is differentiated by some practitio-
be indistinguishable from vitrinite. Liptinite has the highest volatile ners. It exhibits slightly higher reflectance than most of the vitrinite in
matter yield of the macerals in a coal. the coal and is commonly slitted, with indistinct remnant cell structure
and angular or jagged edges. Pseudovitrinite has been postulated to be
macrinite, n—an inertinite maceral, generally nonangular, less thermoplastic in the coking process. The term vitrinite is currently
exhibiting no relict plant cell wall structure and larger than used as both a maceral and maceral group. The subcommittee is
10 µm. actively working on defining subcategories of the maceral group-
vitrinite.
micrinite, n—an inertinite maceral, generally nonangular,
exhibiting no relict plant cell wall structure, smaller than 10 macrinite—See macrinite under maceral.
µm and most commonly occurring as particles around 1- to mechanical cell, n—a type of flotation cell that uses mechani-
5-µm diameter. cal agitation of a pulp by means of an immersed impeller
resinite, n—a liptinite maceral occurring as rounded, ovoid, (rotor) and stator stirring mechanism. Aeration to the cell can
or rod-like bodies assuming the shape of an enclosing cell be from an external pressurized air source or self-induced
lumen or as irregular shapes filling cracks in the coal. air. D 5114
secretinite, n—an inertinite maceral occurring as round, medium volatile bituminous coal—See medium volatile bitu-
ovoid, or oblong bodies, without obvious plant structure, minous coal under rank.
vesicled to non-vesicled, sometimes containing characteris- meta-anthracite—See meta-anthracite under rank.
tic fractures, slits, or a notch. micrinite—See micrinite under maceral.
DISCUSSION—Secretinite is considered to be derived by the oxidation microprocessor, n—a central processing chip within the elec-
of plant resin secretions or humic gels. Vesicular and non-vesicular tronic controller section of the apparatus.
secretinite was formerly included in sclerotinite of fungal origin. mineralized coal—See mineralized coal under coal.
Secretinite is a common maceral in medium-and high-rank Permian and mineral matter, n— in coal, historically considered to be the
Carboniferous coals
non-organic fraction composed of physically discrete par-
semifusinite, n—an inertinite maceral with morphology like ticles of minerals, such as clays, quartz, pyrite, etc., and all
fusinite sometimes with less distinct evidence of cellular elements other than carbon, hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen and
structure, but with reflectance ranging from slightly greater sulfur in the organic fraction.
than that of associated vitrinite to some value intermediate to DISCUSSION—The mineral matter content is employed in the classi-
that of the brightest fusinite. The particle size is also greater fication of coals according to rank (Classification D 388). Since it is
than 50 µm except when it occurs as a fragment within the impractical to directly determine the proportion of mineral matter (for
binder matrix. purposes other than scientific study of coals), it is customarily esti-
mated from the ash residue following high-temperature combustion. A
DISCUSSION—The precise reflectance boundary between semifusinite commonly used estimating technique is that attributed to S. W. Parr
and fusinite has not been universally defined, although some practitio- (Classification D 388):
ners place the division at Ro = 2.0 %; hence, semifusinite is somewhat Mineral Matter = 1.08 Ash % + 0.55 Sulfur %
vaguely defined as “fusinite with low reflectance.” In higher-rank coals, the non-organic fraction is composed mainly of
sporinite, n—a liptinite maceral exhibiting various lenticu- minerals such as those named above. In lower-rank coals it is made up
of both minerals and non-mineral inorganics (sometimes collectively
lar, oval, or round forms that reflect the cross-sectioning of called inorganic matter) such as alkali and alkaline-earth cations bound
a flattened, hollow, ovoid body; sometimes exhibits rod-like to carboxyl and hydroxyl functional groups, hydrogen-bonded alkali
projections that are small relative to the size of the total metals, and other atomically distributed species. In combustion of both
body. higher- and lower-rank coals, much of the inorganic matter reports to

8
 D 121 – 08
the ash residue while many of the decomposition products of some moisture is assayed by determining the mass lost from drying the
species such as hydrates, carbonates, and sulfates are lost to the gaseous sample at 104 to 110°C at specified conditions of residence time,
phase. Note that the terms mineral matter and inorganic matter are often atmosphere, particle size, sample mass, and equipment configuration.
used interchangeably, although this is technically incorrect since the D 3173, D 3302
latter is a more-encompassing expression which includes the mineral
matter. surface moisture, n—that portion of total moisture in a coal
lot or sample collected from a lot, core face channel, or other
mineral parting, n—discrete layer of mineral or mineral-rich source that is in excess of inherent moisture.
sediment interbedded within lower mineral matter content
coal. DISCUSSION—Surface moisture is not to be equated with mass loss
upon air drying—a practice in some countries. Operationally, surface
DISCUSSION—The term is generally reserved for layers that are moisture is the difference between total moisture and inherent moisture.
visually distinct by virtue of their mineral content. Besides their Some sources of surface moisture are: groundwater, drilling fluids,
obvious contribution to the mineral content (and ash yield) of mined dust-suppressant sprays, preparation plant water, and precipitation.
coal, mineral partings frequently serve as planes of weakness upon D 388
which the coal breaks. D 388
total moisture, n—all of the moisture in and on a consign-
moisture, n—in coal, that water in and on coal assayed in ment or sample of coal.
accordance with standard test methods in which the final step
is the measurement of mass loss from a coal sample heated DISCUSSION—In a consignment or sample of coal in which surface
moisture is present, total moisture is the sum of surface moisture and
to 104 to 110°C at specified conditions of residence time,
pore moisture. In consignments or samples of coal in which some
atmosphere, sample mass, and equipment configuration. portion of the as-mined moisture may have been removed by partial
DISCUSSION—All coals are porous and, in their natural state, the pores drying, total moisture may be less than the inherent moisture. Total
are essentially full of water (inherent moisture). When coal is mined moisture is commonly determined by quantitatively air drying a sample
and processed, water may also be present on the surface of the pieces and then assaying residual moisture in the air-dried sample; thus, total
of coal (surface moisture). Water formed by the thermal decomposition moisture is the sum of the air-dry loss and the residual moisture
of the organic fraction of coal or associated mineral matter is not adjusted to the as-received basis. D 3302, D 2961
considered part of the moisture content of coal. In some coals, a very
small portion of the assayed mass loss may be volatile hydrocarbons natural pH, n—the measured pH of the pulp before the
and dissolved or adsorbed gases. ASTM-standardized procedures for addition of collector, frother, or any conditioning agents.
the determination of moisture in coal are designed for commercial D 5114
purposes to facilitate trade and resource evaluation; they may not be net calorific value (net heat of combustion at constant
adequate for research or other activities with different requirements. pressure), n—the heat produced by combustion of unit
D 3302, D 3173, D 2961 quantity of a solid or liquid fuel when burned, at a constant
equilibrium moisture, n—the moisture in a coal sample as pressure of 1 atm (0.1 MPa), under conditions such that all
determined in accordance with Test Method D 1412. the water in the products remains in the forms of vapor.
D 1412 DISCUSSION—The net calorific value is a lower heating value that can
inherent moisture, n—in coal, the moisture that exists as an be calculated from the gross calorific value by making a correction for
integral part of the coal in its natural state, including water in the difference between a constant volume process and a constant
pores, but not that present in macroscopically visible frac- pressure process, and a deduction for the vaporization of the water in
the combustion products, including both the water initially present as
tures.
moisture and that formed by combustion. At 20°C (68°F), the total
DISCUSSION—In coal as it exists in the ground before it is disturbed, deduction is 1030 Btu/lb of water (2.395 MJ/kg) including 1055 Btu/lb
the pores are essentially filled with water (gases, for example, methane, of water (2.454 MJ/kg) for the enthalpy of vaporization of water.
may occupy a minor proportion of the pore volume in some coals); this The net calorific value is closely related to the net enthalpy change
pore-filling moisture is determined as total moisture and referred to as of combustion at standard temperature and pressure, DH°C (t°C). It is of
inherent moisture in a freshly collected sample that (1) does not exhibit opposite sign and differs in magnitude by a small amount due to
visible water on fracture surfaces, (2) has not been allowed to dry after enthalpy effects resulting from compression, temperature differences
collection, and (3) was collected from a fresh coal face that is not dried from t, and solution effects, that vary with the combustion conditions.
(see Classification D 388). On samples not meeting these criteria,
inherent moisture may be estimated by determining equilibrium mois- nonbanded coal—See nonbanded coal under coal.
ture in accordance with Test Method D 1412. D 388, D 1412 nonprobability sample, n—a sample of which the sampling
units have not been selected in a manner that satisfies the
pore moisture, n—moisture in the pores of coal, which may minimum requirements for probability sampling.
be quantitavely equivalent to or less than inherent moisture
DISCUSSION—No meaningful statistical inference can be made with
depending upon the state of dryness of the sample.
data obtained from a nonprobability sample. No meaningful statement
residual moisture, n—that moisture remaining in the sample can be made concerning the precision, standard error, or bias of the
after air drying. sample.
DISCUSSION—Residual moisture is neither a standard state nor a opening—for the purpose of Test Method D 4749, openings
characteristic property of a coal. Air drying only removes water that can
evaporate at or near ambient laboratory conditions leaving in the coal
and apertures shall be regarded as synonomous terms.
water that will not evaporate at those conditions. Different laboratory Dimensions for round and square openings shall be deter-
environments or different drying temperature or both will produce mined as follows: for round holes, dimensions shall refer to
significant differences in air-dry loss and residual moisture. Residual the opening diameter; for square holes, dimensions shall

9
 D 121 – 08
refer to the distance between parallel wires. greater than 13 000 (30.24 Mj/kg) but less than 14 000
oxidized coal—see weathered coal (32.54 Mj/kg) and the coal commonly agglomerates.
prepared coal—for the purpose of Test Method D 4749, any high volatile C bituminous coal, n—the rank of coal, within
coal, regardless of its topsize, that has been manually or the bituminous class of Classification D 388, such that, on
mechanically cleaned. This includes coal that has been the moist, mineral-matter-free basis, the gross calorific value
processed over a picking table or air tables through a of the coal in British thermal units per pound is equal to or
breaker, jig, or other device which segregates according to greater than 11 500 (26.75 Mj/kg) but less than 13 000
size or density (specific gravity). (30.24 Mj/kg) and the coal commonly agglomerates, or
probability sample, n—a sample of which the sampling units equal to or greater than 10 500 (24.42 Mj/kg) but less than
have been selected by a chance process such that, at each 11 500 (26.75 Mj/kg) and the coal agglomerates.
step of selection, a specified probability of selection can be lignite A, n—the rank of coal, within the lignitic class of
attached to each member available for selection. Classification D 388, such that, on the moist, mineral-matter-
free basis, the gross calorific value of the coal in British
DISCUSSION—To satisfy the minimum requirements for probability thermal units per pound is equal to greater than 6300 (14.65
sampling, it is necessary: (1) that every part of the pile, lot, or shipment
Mj/kg) but less than 8300 (19.31 Mj/kg), and the coal is
has a nonzero chance of selection, (2) that these probabilities of
selection be known, at least for the parts actually selected, and (3) that, nonagglomerating.
either in measurement or in computation, each item be weighted in lignite B, n—the rank of coal, within the lignitic class of
inverse proportion to its probability of selection. E 456 Classification D 388, such that, on the moist, mineral-matter-
free basis, the gross calorific value of the coal in British
proximate analysis, n—in the case of coal and coke, the thermal units per pound is less than 6300 (14.65 Mj/kg), and
determination, by prescribed methods, of moisture, volatile the coal is nonagglomerating.
matter, fixed carbon (by difference), and ash. lignitic class, n—a class of rank consisting of lignite A and
DISCUSSION—Unless otherwise specified, the term proximate analysis lignite B.
does not include determinations of sulfur or phosphorus or any low volatile bituminous coal, n—the rank of coal, within the
determinations other than those named. bituminous class of Classification D 388, such that, on the
dry and mineral-matter-free basis, the volatile matter content
pulp, n—a fluid mixture of solids and water, also known as of the coal is greater than 14 % but equal to or less than 22 %
slurry. D 5114 (or the fixed carbon content is equal to or greater than 78 %
random variance of increment collection (unit variance)—See but less than 86 %), and the coal commonly agglomerates.
random variance of increment collection (unit variance) medium volatile bituminous coal, n—the rank of coal, within
under variance. the bituminous class of Classification D 388, such that, on
rank, n—of coal, a classification designation that indicates the the dry and mineral-matter-free basis, the volatile matter
degree of metamorphism, or progressive alteration, from content of the coal is greater than 22 % but equal to or less
lignite to anthracite. than 31 % (or the fixed carbon content is equal to or greater
anthracite, n—the rank of coal, within the anthracitic class than 69 % but less than 78 %), and the coal commonly
of Classification D 388, such that on the dry and mineral- agglomerates.
matter-free basis, the volatile matter content of the coal is meta-anthracite, n—the rank of coal, within the anthracite
greater than 2 % but equal to or less than 8 % (or the fixed class of Classification D 388, such that, on the dry and
carbon content is equal to or greater than 92 % but less than mineral-matter-free basis, the volatile matter content of the
98 %), and the coal is nonagglomerating. coal is equal to or less than 2 % (or the fixed carbon is equal
anthracitic class, n—a class of rank consisting of semian- to or greater than 98 %), and the coal is nonagglomerating.
thracite, anthracite, and meta-anthracite. semianthracite, n—the rank of coal, within the anthracitic
bituminous class, n—a class of rank consisting of high class of Classification D 388, such that, on the dry and
volatile C bituminous coal, high volatile B bituminous coal, mineral-matter-free basis, the volatile matter content of the
high volatile A bituminous coal, medium volatile bituminous coal is greater than 8 % but equal to or less than 14 % (or the
coal, and low volatile bituminous coal. fixed carbon content is equal to or greater than 86 % but less
high volatile A bituminous coal, n—the rank of coal, within than 92 %), and the coal is nonagglomerating.
the bituminous class of the Classification D 388, such that on subbituminous class, n—a class of rank consisting of sub-
the dry and mineral-matter-free basis, the volatile matter bituminous C coal, subbituminous B coal, and subbitumi-
content of the coal is greater than 31 % (or the fixed carbon nous A coal.
content is less than 69 %), and its gross calorific value is subbituminous C coal, n—the rank of coal, within the
equal to or greater than 14 000 Btu/lb (32.65 Mj/kg) of coal subbituminous class of Classification D 388, such that, on
on the moist, mineral-matter-free basis, and the coal is the moist, mineral-matter-free basis, the gross calorific value
commonly agglomerating. of the coal in British thermal units per pound is equal to
high volatile B bituminous coal, n—the rank of coal, within greater than 8300 (19.31 Mj/kg) but less than 9500 (22.10
the bituminous class of Classification D 388, such that, on Mj/kg), and the coal is nonagglomerating.
the moist, mineral-matter-free basis, the gross calorific value subbituminous B coal, n—the rank of coal, within the
of the coal in British thermal units per pound is equal to subbituminous class of Classification D 388, such that, on

10
 D 121 – 08
the moist, mineral-matter-free basis, the gross calorific value values as established by Test Methods D 3173 and D 3174
of the coal in British thermal units per pound is equal to are used for converting the as-determined data to a moisture-
greater than 9500 (22.10 Mj/kg) but less than 10 500 (24.42 and ash-free basis.
Mj/kg) and the coal is nonagglomerating. dry basis, n—data calculated to a theoretical base of no
subbituminous A coal, n—the rank of coal, within the moisture associated with the sample. The numerical value as
subbituminous class of Classification D 388, such that, on established by Test Method D 3173 is used for converting
the moist, mineral-matter-free basis, the gross calorific value the as-determined data to a dry basis.
of the coal in British thermal units per pound is equal to equilibrium moisture basis, n—data calculated to the mois-
greater than 10 500 (24.42 Mj/kg) but less than 11 500 ture level established as the equilibrium moisture. Numerical
(26.75 Mj/kg) and the coal is nonagglomerating. values as established by Test Method D 1412 are used for the
raw coal—for the purpose of Test Method D 4749, any coal, calculation. D 3180
regardless of its topsize, that has not been manually or representative sample—See representative sample under
mechanically cleaned. Crushed coal that has not been sample.
mechanically cleaned (including coal that has not been residual moisture—See residual moisture under moisture.
through a breaker which normally rejects oversize) is con- resinite—See resinite under maceral.
sidered to be raw coal. Coal delivered to the surface from an reproducibility limit, n—the value below which the absolute
underground mine is considered to be raw coal even when difference between two test results obtained under reproduc-
crushing and grinding is done underground. Coal removed ibility conditions may be expected to occur with a probabil-
from the pit of a surface mine is considered to be raw coal ity of approximately 0.95 (95 %).
even when breaking and crushing facilities are provided in
the pit. D 4749 DISCUSSION—The reproducibility limit is 2.8 (1.96 3 square root of
2) times the reproducibility standard deviation. The multiplier is
recovery, n—the percent of the valuable component (that is, independent of the size of the interlaboratory study (that is, of the
Btu or combustible) from the feed that reports to the froth number of laboratories participating), as explained in Practice E 177.
concentrate product. D 5114 The approximation to 0.95 is reasonably good (say 0.90 to 0.98) when
repeatability limit (r)—The value below which the absolute many laboratories (30 or more) are involved but is likely to be poor
difference between two results from separate and consecu- when fewer than 8 laboratories are studied. E 456
tive test determinations, carried out on the same sample in
the same laboratory by the same operator using the same repeatability standard deviation, n—the standard deviation
apparatus on the samples taken at random from a single of test results obtained under repeatability conditions.
quantity of homogeneous material, may be expected to occur DISCUSSION—The repeatability standard deviation includes the vari-
with a probability of approximately 95%. ability of the material in question, the test method used, the equipment
used and calibrations and SRMs used. Other measures of the dispersion
DISCUSSION—The value below which will fall approximately 95% of of test results obtained under repeatability conditions are repeatability
the absolute differences between two consecutive test results obtained
in the shortest practical period of time by the same operator using the variance and repeatability coefficient of variation. E 456
same test method in the same laboratory with the same equipment on
reproducibility standard deviation, n—the standard devia-
test portions from one test sample.
The repeatability limit is 2.8 (1.96 3 =2 ) times the repeatability tion of test results obtained under reproducibility conditions.
standard deviation. This multiplier is independent of the size of the DISCUSSION—Other measures of the dispersion of test results obtained
interlaboratory study, as explained in Practice E 177. under the reproducibility conditions are the reproducibility variance
The approximation to 0.95 is reasonably good (say, 0.90 to 0.98) and the reproducibility coefficient of variation.
when many laboratories (30 or more ) are involved, but it is likely to be The reproducibility standard deviation includes, in addition to
poor when fewer than eight laboratories are studied. E 456 between-laboratory variability, the repeatability standard deviation and
a contribution from the interaction of laboratory factors (that is,
reporting bases: differences between operators, equipment, and environments) with
as-determined basis, n—analytical data obtained from the material factors (that is, the differences between properties of the
analysis sample of coal or coke after conditioning and materials other than that property of interest). E 456
preparation to No. 60 (250-µm) sieve in accordance with
Practice D 2013. As-determined data represents the numeri- ribbon anisotropic phase, n—as used in Test Method D 5061,
cal values obtained at the particular moisture level in the a group of binder-phase anisotropic carbon textures distin-
sample at the time of analysis. These are normally converted, guished by their ribbon-like domains (that is, length (L) to
according to formulae contained in Practice D 3180, to width (W) ratio of L > 4W), and subdivided based on domain
conventional reporting bases. width as fine ribbon (2.0- to 12.0-µm), medium ribbon (12.0-
as-received basis, n—analytical data calculated to the mois- to 25.0-µm), and coarse ribbon (>25.0-µm) size categories.
ture condition of the sample as it arrived at the laboratory D 5061
and before any processing or conditioning. If the sample has riffle, n—a hand-fed sample divider device that divides the
been maintained in a sealed state so that there has been no sample into two parts of approximately the same weight.
gain or loss, the as-received basis is equivalent to the D 2013
moisture basis as sampled. roof, n—the rock material immediately overlying a coal bed.
dry, ash-free basis, n—data calculated to a theoretical base run-of-mine (ROM) coal—for the purpose of Test Method
of no moisture or ash associated with the sample. Numerical D 4749, (1) in the case of an underground mine, it is that

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 D 121 – 08
coal delivered to the surface by a slope belt, hoist, and so solids concentration, n—the ratio, expressed as a percent, of
forth. the weight (mass) of solids to the sum of the weight of solids
(2) in the case of a surface mine, it is that coal as it exists plus water. D 5114
after it has been removed from the pit and placed into the initial sonde, n—an elongate cylindrical tool assembly used in a
means of transportation whether it be an on-the-road or borehole to acquire a geophysical log.
off-the-road haul truck, dump hopper which feeds a pit-to-plant spacing of increments, n—pertains to the kind of intervals
conveyor, and so forth. For both underground and surface between increments. Two spacing methods are recognized:
mines, ROM coal is as-mined and has not been exposed to any systematic and random. Systematic spacing is usually pref-
treatment such as breaking, crushing, or cleaning except for erable.
that done by the normal operations used to extract the coal systematic spacing 1, n—in which the movements of indi-
from the ground, that is, blasting, ripping, loading, cutting, and vidual increment collection are spaced evenly in time or in
so forth. position over the lot.
sample, n—a quantity of material taken from a larger quantity random spacing 2, n—in which the increments are spaced at
for the purpose of estimating properties or composition of random in time or in position over the lot. D 4916
the larger quantity. D 2234/D 2234M sparking fuels, n—within the context of Test Method D 3175,
analysis sample, n—final subsample prepared from the fuels that do not yield a coherent cake as residue in the
original gross sample but reduced to 100 % through No. 60 volatile matter determination but do evolve gaseous products
(250-µm) sieve and divided to not less than 50 g. D 2013; at a rate sufficient to mechanically carry solid particles out of
D 2234/D 2234M the crucible when heated at the standard rate. Such coals
divided sample, n—See subsample. normally include all low-rank noncaking coals and lignites
gross sample, n—a sample representing one lot of coal and but may also include those anthracites, semianthracites,
composed of a number of increments on which neither bituminous, chars, and cokes that lose solid particles as
reduction nor division has been performed. D 2013; described above. These are defined as sparking fuels because
D 2234/D 2234M particles escaping at the higher temperatures may become
laboratory sample, n—the sample, not less than the permis- incandescent and spark as they are emitted.
sible weight delivered to the laboratory for further prepara- sporinite—See sporinite under maceral.
tion and analysis. D 2013 standard deviation, n—the most usual measure of the disper-
representative sample, n—a sample collected in such a sion of observed values or results expressed as the positive
manner that every particle in the lot to be sampled is equally square root of the variance. D 2013; D 2234/D 2234M
represented in the gross or divided sample. subbituminous A coal—See subbituminous A coal under rank.
D 2013;D 2234/D 2234M; D 4916 subbituminous B coal—See subbituminous B coal under rank.
subsample, n—a sample taken from another sample. subbituminous C coal—See subbituminous C coal under rank.
D 2013; D 2234/D 2234M; D 4916 subbituminous class—See subbituminous class under rank.
unbiased sample (representative sample)—a sample free of subsample—See subsample under sample.
bias. D 2013; D 2234/D 2234M; D 4916 tailings, n—the underflow product from coal froth flotation.
sample division, n—the process whereby a sample is reduced D 5114
in weight without change in particle size. D 2013;D 2234/ test determination—the value of a characteristic or dimension
D 2234M; D 4916 of a single test specimen derived from one or more observed
sample reduction, n—the process whereby a sample is re- values. E 456
duced in particle size by crushing or grinding without test method—a definitive procedure that produces a test result.
significant change. D 2013 E 456
sample preparation, n—the process that may include air test portion, n—a quantity of material that is representative of
drying, crushing, division, and mixing of a gross sample for the analysis sample and sufficient to obtain a single test
the purpose of obtaining an unbiased analysis sample. result for the property or properties to be measured.
D 2013 test result—the value of a characteristic obtained by carrying
seam moisture, n—synonym for inherent moisture. out a specified test method. E 456
semianthracite—See semianthracite under rank. test specimen, n—the portion of a test unit needed to obtain a
semifusinite—See semifusinite under maceral. single test determination. E 456
secretinite, n—See secretinite under maceral. test unit, n—the total quantity of material (containing one or
significant loss, n—any loss that introduces a bias in final more test specimens) needed to obtain a test result as
results that is of appreciable economic importance to the specified in the test method. See test result. E 456
concerned parties. D 2013; D 2234/D 2234M; D 4916 textural component, n—as used in Test Method D 5061, the
size consist, n—the particle size distribution of a coal. collective term used to describe carbon forms and recogniz-
D 2013; D 2234/D 2234M; D 4916 able coal- and process-derived components (binder-phase,
softening temperature (ST), n—in reference to the fusibility filler-phase, and miscellaneous material), in coke. D 5061
of coal and coke ash according to Test Method D 1857, the topsize, n—the opening of the smallest screen in the series
temperature at which the cone has fused down to a spherical upon which is retained less than 5 % of the sample (see Test
lump in which the height is equal to the width at the base. Method D 4749). D 2013; D 2234/D 2234M; D 4916

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 D 121 – 08
topsize, nominal—for the purpose of Test Method D 4749, the variance of division and analysis, Sda2, n—the variance
sieve designating the upper limit or topsize shall be that caused by the combined chance errors of division and
sieve of the series given in the Standard Series of Sieves analysis. D 2013
section with the smallest openings upon which is cumula- vitrain—See vitrain under coal.
tively retained a total of less than 5 % of the sample. This vitrinite—See vitrinite under maceral.
defined topsize is not to be confused with the size of the vitrinite type, n—as used in Test Method D 5061, reflectance
largest particle in the lot. D 4749 classes of vitrinite which span 0.1 % reflectance intervals.
total carbon, n—carbon content remaining in the solid prod-
DISCUSSION—This term is commonly referred to as V-type. For
ucts derived from the combustion or reaction of coal, coal
example, V-type 6 includes vitrinite reflectance values from 0.6 through
by-products, or coke, inclusive of carbonate in any form.
D 6316 0.69 %. D 5061
total moisture—See total moisture under moisture. volatile matter, n—those products, exclusive of moisture,
total variance—See total variance under variance. given off by a material such as gas or vapor, determined by
ultimate analysis, n—in the case of coal and coke, the definite prescribed methods which may vary according to the
determination of carbon and hydrogen in the material, as nature of the material.
found in the gaseous products of its complete combustion,
DISCUSSION—In the case of coal and coke, the methods used shall be
the determinations of sulfur, nitrogen, and ash in the material
those prescribed in Test Method D 3175.
as a whole, and the calculation of oxygen by difference.
DISCUSSION—The determination of phosphorus or chlorine is not by washability analysis of coal, n—the analysis of the specific
definition a part of the ultimate analysis of coal or coke. See Test gravity distribution of chemical and physical characteristics
Method D 2361 for the determination of chlorine and Test Methods of coal.
D 2795 for the determination of phosphorus.
Moisture is not by definition a part of the ultimate analysis of coal or DISCUSSION—The specific gravity fractions are obtained by subject-
coke but must be determined so that analytical data may be converted ing the material being studied to a series of solutions, each with a
to bases other than that of the analysis sample. discrete specific gravity, that cover the range of specific gravities in
Inasmuch as some coals contain mineral carbonates, and practically question. In the case of the washability analysis of coal, these solutions
all contain clay or shale containing combined water, a part of the are obtained by the mixing of various organic liquids that are relatively
carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen found in the products of combustion inert toward the majority of coal types. The distribution, as determined
by the analysis, is affected by the physical condition of the sample
may arise from these mineral components. D 3176
subjected to the washability analysis, for example, the moisture content
unbiased sample—See unbiased sample under sample. and the size content of the material. D 4371
variance, n—the mean square of deviations (or errors) of a set
of observations; the sum of squared deviations (or errors) of water equivalent, n—Synonym for energy equivalent.
individual observations with respect to their arithmetic mean weathered coal, n—coal that has been exposed to climatic
divided by the number of observations less one (degrees of conditions (precipitation, sunlight, wind, temperature varia-
freedom); the square of the standard deviation (or standard tions, etc.) and sometimes ground water, such that its
error). D 2013; D 2234/D 2234M properties are altered compared to those in coal from the
random variance of increment collection (unit variance), same seam that has not be so exposed.
Sr2, n—the theoretical variance calculated for a uniformly DISCUSSION—Weathering is always accompanied by oxidation of the
mixed lot and extrapolated to 0.5-kg (1-lb) increment size. organic material, commonly resulting in an increased concentration of
D 2234/D 2234M oxygenated functional groups (for example OH and COOH). More
segregation variance of increment collection, Ss2, n—the pronounced weathering is accompanied by cracking and frequently, by
variance caused by nonrandom distribution of ash content or mineral efflorescence. Milder weathering may not be detectable by
visual inspection, but all weathering is manifest by increased solubility
other constituent in the lot. For a method of estimating this in alkalis (see Test Method D 5263), reduced calorific value, and, for
variance, see Annex A1 of Test Methods D 2234/D 2234M. bituminous coals reduced agglutinating or agglomerating properties
D 2234/D 2234M upon heating. D 388, D 720, D 5515
total variance, So2, n—the overall variance resulting from
collecting single increments and including division and wet sieving—for the purpose of Test Method D 4749, the test
analysis of the single increments. D 2013; D 2234/ method for the sieving of coal that uses water as a medium
D 2234M for facilitating the segregation of the sample into particle
variance of analysis, Sa2, n—the variance caused by chance size; this is generally used when testing coal particles 600
errors (deviations) of analysis. D 2013 µm (No. 30 U.S.A. Standard Series) or smaller. D 4749
variance of division, Sd2, n—the variance caused by chance yield, n—the weight percent of the feed that reports to the
errors (deviations) of sample division. D 2013 concentrate. D 5114

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4. Classification and Relationship of Terms nonbanded coal:
4.1 Terms Used to Classify Coal by Rank: cannel or boghead or transition between these varieties
4.1.1 Classification—The classification of terms used to impure coal:
classify coal by rank in accordance with Classification D 388 bone coal
are as follows: mineralized coal
Class Group
other impure coal
4.3 Terms Used in Microscopical Description and Analysis
Anthracitic meta-anthracite of Coal:
anthracite
semianthracite
4.3.1 Classification—The classification of the microscopic
constituents into groups of similar properties in a given coal is
Bituminous low volatile bituminous coal as follows:
medium volatile bituminous coal
high volatile A bituminous coal Maceral Group Maceral
high volatile B bituminous coal
high volatile C bituminous coal Vitrinite vitrinite

Subbituminous subbituminous A coal Liptinite alginite

subbituminous B coal cutinite
subbituminous C coal resinite
sporinite
Lignitic lignite A
lignite B Inertinite fusinite
funginite
4.2 Terms Used in Megascopic Descriptions of Coal Seams inertodetrinite
macrinite
and Hand Specimens of Coal: micrinite
4.2.1 Some relationships of terms are shown in outline form secretinite
below. Defined terms are indicated by bold type. Coal: semifusinite
banded coal:
attrital coal 5. Keywords
fusain 5.1 analysis; coal; coke; definitions; sampling; terminology;
vitrain terms

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