Coal- South Africa

Coal a sedimentary rock formed from compressed decayed plant matter over millions of years serves as a fossil fuel primarily used for power generation. It exists in various ranks based on carbon content heating value and volatile matter with the main types being Anthracite Highest carbon content hardest cleanest burning but least common. Bituminous Most abundant type used in power plants and steel production. Subbituminous Lower carbon content than bituminous often used in power generation. Lignite Lowest carbon content softest highest moisture primarily used in power generation in specific regions. Forms of Trade Coal trades in various forms : Thermal Coal Used for power generation traded via physical delivery ships trains or futures contracts. Metallurgical Coal Coking Coal Used in steel production traded via long term contracts and spot purchases. Blended Coal Mixtures of different coal types to meet specific needs traded similarly to thermal or metallurgical coal