Petrographic characteristics and industrial implications of high-rank anthracite from the Khe Cham mine, Quang Ninh, northeastern Vietnam

  • Affiliations:

    1 Vinacomin Informatics, Technology, Environment Joint Stock Company, Hanoi, Vietnam
    2 Vietnam Institute of Geosciences and Mineral Resources, Hanoi, Vietnam
    3 Vinacomin - HaLong Coal Company, Quangninh, Vietnam
    4 Hanoi University of Mining and Geology, Hanoi, Vietnam

  • *Corresponding:
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  • Received: 1st-Apr-2026
  • Revised: 1st-May-2026
  • Accepted: 26th-May-2026
  • Online: 1st-Oct-2026
Pages: 72 - 83
Views: 26
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Abstract:

Anthracite coal is an important resource in Quang Ninh, Vietnam, characterized by a high degree of metamorphism and high energy value. This study focuses on the petrographic composition of anthracite coal from the Khe Cham mine, Mong Duong Ward, aiming to evaluate the maceral characteristics and utilization potential of this coal type. Coal samples were collected from active mining tunnels, prepared as polished blocks, and analyzed using reflected-light microscopy in accordance with the standards of the International Committee for Coal and Organic Petrology (ICCP). The results indicate that the coal is predominantly composed of vitrinite (accounting for 72÷100%), with inertinite ranging from 0÷3% and liptinite from 0÷7%, reflecting a high metamorphic grade. The vitrinite reflectance (Ro) ranges from 2.174÷ 3.631%, confirming its classification as anthracite according to international standards. In addition, minor mineral phases such as pyrite, calcite, and quartz were identified in the samples, which may influence coal quality and industrial applications. With low volatile matter, high calorific value, and low impurity content, Khe Cham coal is considered a high-quality fuel source suitable for thermal power generation and metallurgical industries. This study contributes to the petrographic database of anthracite coal from the Khe Cham mine and provides a scientific basis for optimizing coal processing and utilization, as well as guiding future research on the gasification potential of this high-grade anthracite.

How to Cite
Pham, D.Viet, Ngo, D.Xuan, Do, D.Manh, Nguyen, H.Hoang, Pham, C.Van and Vo, C.Cong Thi 2026. Petrographic characteristics and industrial implications of high-rank anthracite from the Khe Cham mine, Quang Ninh, northeastern Vietnam (in Vietnamese). Journal of Mining and Earth Sciences. 67, 5 (Oct, 2026), 72-83. DOI:https://doi.org/10.46326/JMES.2026.67(5).06.
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