Trace Elements in West Virginia Coals
Trace Elements in West Virginia Coals
CESIUM (Cs)
Geologic Occurrence: Cesium is generally thought to be associated with the mineral fraction of coals, and is present in trace amounts in potassium-rich clays, micas and feldspars 1. Cesium has been found to be associated with clays in Ohio coals 2. In West Virginia coals, whole coal Cs averaged 1.15 ppm and statistically correlated slightly with ash yield and some ash-related trace elements such as chromium, vanadium, scandium, thorium, gallium and lithium. Stratigraphic distribution and areal distribution of whole coal Cs was erratic and probably associated with mineral matter distribution.
Economic Impact: Cesium in West Virginia coals should have no economic influence. Cesium is used as a "getter" to absorb oxygen and nitrogen in light bulbs, in photoelectric cells, and as a catalyst in hydrogenation of organic compounds 3. Cesium may also be used in ion propulsion systems for spacecraft in the future 3.
Environmental Impact: No detrimental environmental effects of cesium have been reported 1.
References:
1. Swaine,
D.J., (1990)
2. Palmer,
C.A. and Filby, R.H., (1984)
3. CRC
Handbook of Chemistry and Physics
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