5.1 The volume fraction of physical components of coal is used as an aid in coal seam correlation and in the characterization of coals for their use in carbonization, gasification, liquefaction, and combustion processes.

5.2 This test method is for use in scientific and industrial research, not compliance or referee tests.

1.1 This test method covers the equipment and techniques used for determining the physical composition of a coal sample in terms of volume fraction of the organic components and of mineral matter, if desired by systematic manual point count.

1.2 The term weight is temporarily used in this test method because of established trade usage. The word is used to mean both force and mass and care must be taken to determine which is meant in each case (the SI unit for force is newton and for mass, kilogram).

1.3 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.4 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.