DEVELOPMENT OF ANALYSIS METHODOLOGY OF TECHNICAL INDICATORS OF PEAT AND RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN THESE INDICATORS, PEAT PROPERTIES AND FIELDS OF USE

摘要

Peat is one of the most important mineral resources of Estonia, 2.37 billion tons, extracted from 1.0 to 1.2 million tons per year. It is exported to 100 countries. It is necessary to analyze the sustainability of peat mining, develop innovative new uses (balneology, activated carbon, peat wax, humic substances, fertilizers, etc). So far, the peat is limited to only heating purposes and horticultural use. Analysis of botanical composition and chemical characteristics of peat provide opportunities for dividing peat layers according to different qualities and possible uses. In Estonia, more than 40,000 peat samples have been collected. Their botanical composition, degree of humification, pH, natural moisture and ash content were determined. Also calorific value, content of trace elements, as well as formation and genesis of peat were described. All the Estonian peat samples have been analyzed using similar methods. Samples have been collected throughout the whole peat sequence. Analysis results give possibilities to determine different quality classes of peat for raw materials and alternative use. It is also important to complete models and maps, where peat layers with different composition of organic matter can be found. The article gives the opportunity and ideas to solve the problems set by the research nationally and internationally