Assessment of the ree and trace elements in the horizonal and vertical directions in the Kangal (Sivas) Kalburcayiri basin coal seam

The purpose of this study is to examine both horizontally and vertically lignite coal?s trace elements and Rare-Earth Elements (REE) content within the lignite field in Kangal (Sivas) Kalburçayırı.In this area; ranging from older to younger, Sümbül Formation (Mesozoic), Pınarbaşı Ophiolites (Cretaceous), Formation of Kalburçayırı (Neocene), Formation of Bicir (Lower Paleocene) and young formations (Pliyo-Kuvaterner) are exposed. The N-S trending fault, located in North of Kalburçayırı, shows that this area is tectonically active. Additionally, Neocene formations include NW-SE trending synclines and small ondulations, which are up to horizontal or approximately horizontal layers of these formations.40 horizontal and 10 vertical coal samples were collected then these samples were analyzed by ICP-OES (inductively Coupled Plasma-Optic Emission Spectrometry) in ACME-Canada analytical laboratories. Compared to global average concentration, our analyses show significantly higher amounts of REE. Moreover, horizontal coal samples include 2,77 times as much REE concentration than vertical coal samples. Low Rare Earth Elements (LREE) in the coal in the studying area is more enriched than Maderate Rare Elements (MREE). Based on trace element content of coal samples in the studying area, horizontal coal samples are enriched by Mo, Zn, Se, Cs and Cr, beside vertical coal samples are enriched by Mo, Ni, Sr, Cs, Cr ve Al. Furthermore, it is observed that both horizontal and vertical coal samples are enriched by U.As a result, the reason why horizontal and vertical coal samples are enriched by trace element content is depend on coal maturation degree; horizontal coal samples are enriched by metals is controlled by meteoric originated waters; high Ni and Cr concentration in the studying area is caused by Pınarbaşı ophiolits; while high U concentration depends on oxidation and pH conditions? high Al concentration is associated with Kalburcayırı Formations limestone.Key Words: REE, Trace Elements, Coal, Kalburçayırı