Phase 1: Our initial work will be focused in an area in Ohio County. Coal samples of the Springfield coal will be collected and tested to measure and characterize the CBM through a coring program. Samples will first be desorbed to measure gas content, and the gas will subsequently be analyzed for composition (types and amounts of gases present) and origin (biogenic or thermogenic).

Phase 2: In the second phase, our efforts will expand to other parts of the coal field to identify specific areas with the best potential for economic CBM. Geologic data from oil and gas drill record and borehole information will be accumulated and analyzed to determine which areas of the WKCF have the greatest cumulative thickness of coal at sufficient depth for potential CBM production. These data will assist future drilling by locating the best areas for potential multiple seam completion. Mine maps will also be analyzed to determine if any structural trends, such as regional flexure patterns or faulting, can be identified, as these areas can greatly enhance the natural permeability of the coal.