Storage of bituminous coals under argon

Two bituminous coals, crushed to < 0.32 cm ($\text{1}\text{8}$ in), have been stored for 455 days under argon at room temperature and examined for indications of oxidation. The only changes noted over this time were a 20–30% reduction in maximum fluidity from the Gieseler plastometer test for both coals, and conversion of 5% of the pyrite to iron oxyhydroxide in one coal. Although minor, these changes do indicate that more stringent conditions are necessary to minimize oxidation during long-term storage (>2 years).