Measured reflectance suppressed by thin-film interference of crude oil smeared on glass - as on vitrinite in coal or petroliferous rocks

Society for Organic Petrology Newsletter
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Abstract

The tool of measuring "vitrinite reflectance" under a microscope has great value in petroleum exploration and coal utilization, and the reflectance is a simple number, such as 1.4% Ro, with some slight variations depending on technique. Sample collection, preparation and measurement are simple and many sedimentary rocks yield vitrinite. However, the reported number can lead one astray if its origin and quality are not fully understood. I analyze here just one factor, "smear" of crude oil on the polished surface (from the sample), which may reduce reflectance because of thin-film interference. Some other causes of error are listed in an addendum to this note.
Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Measured reflectance suppressed by thin-film interference of crude oil smeared on glass - as on vitrinite in coal or petroliferous rocks
Series title Society for Organic Petrology Newsletter
Volume 28
Issue 2
Year Published 2011
Language English
Publisher The Society for Organic Petrology
Publisher location VA
Contributing office(s) Central Energy Resources Science Center
Description 4 p.
Larger Work Type Article
Larger Work Subtype Journal Article
Larger Work Title Society for Organic Petrology Newsletter
First page 12
Last page 15
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