A Fourier Transform Infrared Study of Mineral Matter in Coal: The Application of a Least Squares Curve-Fitting Program

Abstract

The application of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy to the quantitative determination of mineral matter in coal is discussed. The use of a least squares curve-fitting program allows a choice between standards to be made. The results of an analysis of mineral mixtures and a coal low temperature ash are presented. The results are in good agreement with known concentrations and those obtained by other methods of analysis.