Robert Finkleman, Susan Tewalt, Linda Bragg, United States Geological Survey, United States Geological Survey, United States Geological Survey
This paper discusses the environmental significance of mercury and its occurrence in U.S. coal beds as measured by the USGS's COALQUAL database. Useful diagrams and charts help explain mercury concentrations of in-ground coal by region, how mercury is released through coal combustion, and why using higher grade coals or physically cleaning coal can minimize mercury emissions during combustion. The paper also discusses additional studies to determine how the mode of occurrence of mercury in coal may influence the potential for toxic emissions.
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Part of the Cutting Edge collection. The NAGT/DLESE On the Cutting Edge project helps geoscience faculty stay up-to-date with both geoscience research and teaching methods.
Subject: Geoscience:Geology:Geochemistry, Geochemistry:Elements, Biology Resource Type: Audio/Visual:Images/Illustrations, Maps, Scientific Resources:Overview/Reference Work Grade Level: College Upper (15-16), Graduate/Professional Health Topics: Heavy Metals Theme: Teach the Earth:Course Topics:Geochemistry