E.s.r. spectra of eastern oil shales

E.s.r. spectra of several oil shales from eastern and western USA have been measured at 9 and 25 GHz. The spectra of the western shales were similar to previously reported spectra and consist of a Mn²⁺ signal and a featureless organic signal. The eastern spectra consist of a V⁴⁺ signal and a complex and unusual organic signal consisting of at least four component signals. The organic signal has been characterized in terms of g factor, line-width and saturation characteristics. The effect of oxygen on the signal has also been examined. Electron nuclear double resonance (ENDOR) signals have been obtained from the organic signals of the eastern oil shales.