60-40 Geochemical Characterization of Trace Elements Within Eastern and Midwestern U.S. Coal Deposits Using MP-AES: Exploring New Potential for Coal and its Byproducts

Session: 2YC and 4YCU Geoscience Student Research Poster Showcase

Presenting Author:

Authors:

Abstract:

Coal is valued for its energy content, yet it contains many trace elements that remain an emerging resource with increasing economic and environmental significance, particularly in coal waste. This study investigates the spatial distribution of trace elements in coal samples collected from various basins across the United States. This study aims to characterize geochemical signatures across settings. Using Microwave Plasma Atomic Emission Spectroscopy (MP-AES), elemental differentiation from the coal and quantification of elements such as lithium, molybdenum, and palladium are specifically targeted due to their industrial applications. These elements have an increasingly high demand across technology, energy storage, and manufacturing sectors. Through a standardized approach, this research project looks to determine and validate trace element concentrations within different coal deposits. Results from this project will provide insight into the opportunities that coal and its byproducts maintain after combustion and examine differences in trace element distribution across space and time. These waste products can then be considered valuable based on the trace element content of these critically necessary elements. 

Geological Society of America Abstracts with Program. Vol. 57, No. 6, 2025

doi: 10.1130/abs/2025AM-9548

© Copyright 2025 The Geological Society of America (GSA), all rights reserved.