Coal dominates as a primary energy source in South Africa, and because of its abundance, it will continue to play an important role to meet the increasing demands for different forms of energy (electricity and liquid fuels). In South Africa, coal is used in electricity generation, petrochemical coal-to-liquids industry, metallurgical industry and in general industries. Over 95% of South African coal reserves is bituminous, with about 2% being anthracite. South African coal contain low levels of vitrinite and are rich in inertinite particles, with some of these particles being reactive. “The rank (or maturity) of South African coal, however, varies from one region to another.”

The South African coal is primarily used in combustion and gasification processes. For a better understanding of these processes, it is necessary for this material to be tested in an accredited laboratory. The test results generated would assist in predicting and controlling the combustion and gasification processes.