Palynological correlation of Lower Gondwana coal seams

Abstract

Correlation of coal seams which is universally accepted terse geological problem, has been enunciated in all its aspects. The physical and chemical characteristics which are unpredictably variable in coal seams have been evaluated vis-a-vis their palynological characteristics which are almost constant qualitatively. These are suggested to be used for typification of each coal seam or its lithological  equivalent so as to trace its lateral extension through correlation of the bits and parts occurring in various sectors of the coalfield. As example of palynotypification, two, recently studied two coal seams from Talcher Coalfield have been illustrated. One of them is the basal seam in a bore-hole designated as Seam I and interpreted geologically to be of Karharbari Formation. Palynologically it is characterized by the association of Indotriradites and Dentatispora. The other one is an outcrop seam, so far undetermined geologically. It contains preponderance of Callumispora, a spore genus that signifies Karharbari Formation. These coal seams, where so ever their lateral continuations extend, can be identified on the basis of the palynological contents qualitatively and to some extent also quantitatively.

The shortcomings and limitations of palynological methodology in the effort to achieve correlation of coal seams have been discussed and ways and means to mitigate the same suggested.