Characterization of liquid product from the reaction of coal with hydrogen atoms

An oily product formed by the reaction of a domestic subbituminous coal (Taiheiyo coal) with hydrogen atoms at 200 °C, has been characterized. The material is essentially composed of C₅-C₂₂ alkanes and cycloalkanes. The $\text{H}\text{C}$ ratio, specific gravity and refractive index were 1.81, 0.855 and 1.447, respectively. The absence of heteroatoms, alkenes and aromatics in the product is the outstanding feature of the coal liquefaction induced by hydrogen atoms.