ABSTRACT
The methane generation potential, methane sorption capacity, maturity, and petrographic study of 12 borehole samples from Raniganj coal field, India were determined. Petrographic, proximate, and ultimate analysis indicates that the all samples are matured. Adsorption isotherm and in-situ gas content analysis reveals that samples have excellent storage capacity (17.98–29.55 m3/t) and methane generation potential. Microscopic studies (FESEM and FTIR) of coal samples show well-developed pores, cleat system, and presence of aromatic H and aliphatic H. The simulation study shows that 17.68 Mm3 methane production can be possible in 10 years. The overall studies conclude that the Raniganj coal seams to have sufficient potential for coal bed methane extraction.