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Californium-252 plasma desorption mass spectrometry of solid coal

Journal Article · · Anal. Chem.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1021/ac00248a054· OSTI ID:6226166

The technique of /sup 252/Cf plasma desorption mass spectrometry (/sup 252/Cf-PDMS) was applied to the direct analysis of several samples of solid coal and to one which had the mineral matter removed by acid treatment. The data from the /sup 252/Cf-PDMS spectrum of Illinois No. 6 coal and that of a demineralized sample of the same coal are tabulated with indication of organic structural changes in coal during the demineralization process being shown. The data presented are not totally definitive but lead to the theory that many of the mass spectral peaks are molecular ions resulting from direct sputtering of molecules from the coal surface. Molecular weights in the range from 450 to 900 mass units were shown for this coal, and possible structural types to explain these molecular weights are suggested. New information on molecular weights, functional groups, cross-linking of structures, and stability of structure in coal should be available using this new /sup 252/Cf-PDMS technique. (BLM)

Research Organization:
Pacific Northwest Lab., Richland, WA
OSTI ID:
6226166
Journal Information:
Anal. Chem.; (United States), Journal Name: Anal. Chem.; (United States) Vol. 54; ISSN ANCHA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English