Extractability of biomarkers from high- and low-vitrinite coals and its effect on the porosity of coal

► FTIR and GC/MS were used to examine coals and their extracts for chemical structure. ► Extracts of high-liptinite Lower Block Coal showed more n-alkanes and hopanes. ► Vitrinite-rich Springfield Coal yielded more aromatic hydrocarbons. ► Extraction with CH3OH and CH2Cl2 caused changes in coal porosity.