This paper describes the feasibility of using fluorescence microscopy
in conjunction with normal white light microscopy and image analysis i
n order to carry out fully automated maceral analysis. A short review
of current image systems shows a lack of success in distinguishing the
liptinite species from the resin media used to form the coal block. F
luorescent lighting is commonly used during manual analysis and in thi
s paper fluorescence is shown to provide a means of performing automat
ed maceral analysis which includes an accurate determination of the li
ptinite content. The work presented indicates that the system can be u
sed with a wide range of coals from around the world. A realistic asse
ssment of repeatability and reproducibility is also made.