Physical Sciences and Mathematics Commons^™

Remaining Resources Of The Springfield Coal, Gerald A. Weisenfluh

Map and Chart--KGS

Historically, the Springfield (W. Ky. No. 9) opal bed has been the leading source of coal production in the Western Kentucky Coal Field. With 2009 production more than 21 million tons and another 8 million tons of idle capacity, it is also the most important resource in the state of Kentucky. The Springfield coal is known for its lateral continuity in terms of both thickness and quality. It is a medium-sulfur product, desirable for power plants with sulfur-reduction capability, and has higher Btu values and lower chlorine contents compared to other Illinois Basin areas north of Kentucky. It is estimated …

The No. 5 Block In Eastern Kentucky: A Critical Re-Examination Of The Petrology With Special Attention To The Origin Of Inertinite Macerals In The Splint Lithotypes, Allison Ranae Richardson

University of Kentucky Master's Theses

Microbes, including fungi and bacteria, and insects are responsible for the consumption and subsequent degradation of plant materials into humus. These microbes directly and indirectly affect the physical and chemical characteristics of coal macerals. Efforts to understand and determine the origins of inertinite macerals are largely misrepresented in the literature, conforming to a single origin of fire. This study focuses on the variability of physical and inferred chemical differences observed petrographically between the different inertinite macerals and discusses the multiple pathways plant material may take to form and or degrade these macerals.

Petrographic results show that fungal activity plays a …