Concentration of Germanium in Lignite Deposits

Abstract

Isolated lignite deposits in coal beds are always rich in germanium. Lignites and vitrains in coal beds are generally characterized by elevated germanium content, but anomalous concentrations are only seen in germanium-bearing coal beds. In coal fields, germanium is systematically observed at background levels in coal, but coal with high and anomalous levels is rare. Such coal beds are localized in delta deposits, with large grain size and distinctive tilted bed structure. It appears that the germanium is associated with normal infiltration solutions, as confirmed by the lack of any visual changes in the coal and surrounding rock. In a humid climate, such solutions are common. That explains the systematically high germanium content in isolated lignite deposits. Local indicators of germanium-bearing coal beds are considered.