How do coal scientists measure volatile matter in coal?

Scientists measure the volatile matter content of coal by determining the loss of weight that occurs when a sample is heated to approximately 950 °C (about 1,742 °F) in the absence of air under specified laboratory conditions.12

This process is a standard component of a proximate analysis, which helps assess the quality and rank of the coal. The volatile matter driven off during this procedure consists of a mixture of gases, tars, and low-boiling-point organic compounds that condense into oils upon cooling. Because volatile matter significantly influences how easily coal ignites and its reactivity during combustion, this measurement is essential for utilities and other buyers to determine the suitability of coal for specific applications.12