Properties of Gondwana coals with emphasis on the Permian coals of Australia and South Africa

This review discusses the geological properties of Gondwana coals especially the Permian coals of Australia and South Africa and how the liquefaction, carbonization, combustion and beneficiation of these coals are affected by their properties. Many Gondwana coals have high inertinite and mineral matter contents. Much of the inertinite is often of low reflectance. This low-reflectance inertinite is reactive in carbonization and liquefaction and behaves in a similar matter to vitrinite in this regard. A brief discussion of the resources, location and general information on current uses of these coals is also included.