Applications of zero field and 2-dimensional n.m.r. methods to fossil fuels

Abstract Three new two-dimensional (2D) solid-state n.m.r. methods are described which have much potential for increasing our knowledge of coal structure. A version of carbon-13/proton chemical shift correlation spectroscopy adapted for solids is outlined and results for one coal examined. A variant of dipolar shift correlation spectroscopy is described which is very convenient for determining the relative amounts of methylene, methine and methyl or non-protonated carbons in a complex mixture such as coal. The results for one hvA coal are presented and shown to be in agreement with its ultimate analysis. The principles underlying zero field n.m.r. are also presented, with an emphasis on deuterium ZF-n.m.r. This technique is assessed as a potentially powerful method in coal structure analysis for the future.