Geochemistry is the branch of Earth Science that applies chemical principles to deepen an understanding of the Earth system and systems of other planets. Geochemists consider Earth composed of discrete spheres — rocks, fluids, gases and biology — that exchange matter and energy over a range of time scales. An effective management of geological and environmental issues requires the understanding of recent research in minerals, soil, ores, rocks, water, sediments. In this work, it is proposed to provide an overview of major developments that have occurred in a number of areas of geochemistry in recent years. This will include developments in reservoir geochemistry such as the use of high-resolution gas chromatography for reservoir continuity studies and high-temperature gas chromatography for characterization of wax deposits. A brief overview of recent developments in biomarker geochemistry will be provided on exploration geochemistry along with a discussion on the use of various pyrolysis techniques for the purposes of artificial maturation or characterization of the insoluble organic matter in source rocks or asphaltenes in oils. It presents the main aspects of coalbed gas geochemistry and current research advances. Coals are both sources and reservoirs of large amounts of gas that has received increasing attention in recent years as a largely untapped potential energy resource.

This book brings together the knowledge from a variety of topics within the field of geochemistry. It aims to characterize geochemical conditions prior to mine construction, operation, and reclamation/closure. The audience for this book consists of a multitude of scientists such as physicists, geologists, technologists, petroleum engineers, volcanologists, geochemists and government agencies.