83 - Lignite

Hello friends, Welcome to the  Rock Repository at the Department of Geology, Shivaji Science College, Nagpur.

I am lignite, an Organo-Sedimentary rock,  often referred to as brown coal. I'm characterized by my relatively low carbon content and high moisture content, making me the lowest rank of coal in terms of carbon content. Despite my lower energy content compared to other forms of coal like bituminous or anthracite, I remain an important energy resource in various parts of the world due to my widespread availability and relatively low cost of extraction. I typically contain around 25-35% carbon, which is lower than higher-ranked coals such as bituminous or anthracite. This lower carbon content contributes to my lower energy density.  One of my most distinctive properties is my high moisture content, often ranging from 25% to 40% or even higher. This high moisture content makes me less efficient than other coals when burned for energy generation, as a significant portion of the energy produced is used to evaporate the water present in me. Due to my low carbon content and high moisture content, I have a lower heating value compared to higher-ranked coals. India is one of the countries with significant reserves of mine, primarily located in the southern states of Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. The Neyveli Lignite Corporation (NLC) in Tamil Nadu is one of the largest lignite mining and power generation companies in India. Rajasthan and Gujarat also have deposits of mine that contribute to the country's energy production.  One of my primary uses is in electricity generation. Despite my lower energy content and efficiency compared to other coals, lignite-fired power plants are still operational in various parts of the world, including India.

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