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Significance of Isotopically Labile Organic Hydrogen in Thermal Maturation of Organic Matter

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/974200· OSTI ID:974200
 [1];
  1. Indiana University, Department of Geological Sciences

Isotopically labile organic hydrogen in fossil fuels occupies chemical positions that participate in isotopic exchange and in chemical reactions during thermal maturation from kerogen to bitumen, oil and gas. Carbon-bound organic hydrogen is isotopically far less exchangeable than hydrogen bound to nitrogen, oxygen, or sulfur. We explore why organic hydrogen isotope ratios express a relationship with organic nitrogen isotope ratios in kerogen at low to moderate maturity. We develop and apply new techniques to utilize organic D/H ratios in organic matter fractions and on a molecular level as tools for exploration for fossil fuels and for paleoenvironmental research. The scope of our samples includes naturally and artificially matured substrates, such as coal, shale, oil and gas.

Research Organization:
Indiana University
Sponsoring Organization:
Dr. Nicholas Woodward, Department of Energy, Basic Energy Sciences, Office of Science SC-64, 19901 Germantown Rd., Germantown MD 20874-1290 phone 301-903-5802; Nick.Woodward@science.doe.gov
DOE Contract Number:
FG02-00ER15032
OSTI ID:
974200
Report Number(s):
Final Report
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English