resinite

maceral

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July 13, 2026

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Resinite is a type of maceral, which are microscopically recognizable organic constituents of coal. Macerals are analogous to minerals in rocks but lack a crystalline structure. They are essentially coalified plant remains that undergo chemical and physical changes as coal rank increases.1

Resinite specifically belongs to the liptinite group of macerals. Liptinites are characterized by a high hydrogen content and are derived from plant cuticles and resinous parts. Other liptinites include sporinite, cutinite, and alginite. Resinite is found in most coals, typically making up 5 to 15 percent of the material. Mineral resins, which are fossilized deposits, are also sometimes referred to as mineral resin.12

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coal
Macerals
…often with crenulated surfaces), and resinite (ovoid and sometimes translucent masses of resin). The liptinites may fluoresce (i.e., luminesce because of absorption of radiation) under ultraviolet light, but with increasing rank their optical properties approach those of the vitrinites, and the two groups become indistinguishable.
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…often with crenulated surfaces), and resinite (ovoid and sometimes translucent masses of resin). The liptinites may fluoresce (i.e., luminesce because of absorption of radiation) under ultraviolet light, but with increasing rank their optical properties approach those of the vitrinites, and the two groups become indistinguishable.
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