Micropore structure analysis of coal from adsorption isotherms of methanol

Results are presented of a study of the distribution of pore volume and surface in micropores of coal from adsorption equilibria of methanol vapours at temperatures ranging between 293 and 343 K according to a new method. Typical parameters of the micropore structure of twenty samples of coals of carbon contents between 64 and 91% are calculated for a model of cylindrical pores. The micropore surface areas are compared with the results obtained by using the DKR and BET equations, and with already published data from small-angle X-ray scattering. The agreement between results is satisfactory. This evidence suggests that the use of the new method of evaluating the basic parameters of the microstructure can be recommended.     

Semi-natural Forested Landscape under a Bark Beetle Outbreak: a case study of the Bohemian Forest (Czech Republic)

Long-term and lasting human interference in forest ecosystems in the Bohemian Forest has resulted in the loss of some equilibrium mechanisms and hence increased susceptibility to ecological disturbances. Two methods for estimating bark beetle outbreaks in spruce forests are reported: an assessment of the susceptibility of individual trees to attack according to crown structure characteristics; and the use of remotely sensed data and image processing techniques to quantify changes in forest cover. The results document a significant increase in the area of highly damaged and dead forest classes, from 1% in 1987 to 16% in 1998, and a decrease in the area of healthy and moderately damaged spruce classes from 71% in 1987 to 52% in 1998. A possible approach to managing mountain Norway spruce ecosystems invaded by bark beetle in the Bohemian Forest is proposed.