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This is a short overview. For the background — history, value over time and notable mines — see Oil Shale →
Occurs in: Sedimentary Beds and Seams →
A fine-grained sedimentary rock rich in kerogen, which yields a petroleum-like oil when heated (retorted). Mined and retorted on an industrial scale in central Scotland during the 19th and 20th centuries to produce paraffin, lubricating oils and other petrochemical products.
| Mine | Region | Worked |
|---|---|---|
| Addiewell Oil Works | West Lothian | 1866–c.1921 |
| Binnend Oil Works | Fife | 1878–1894 (mines) |
| Broxburn Oil Works | West Lothian | 1860s–26 April 1927 |
| Burngrange Oil Shale Mine | Midlothian | 1936–1962 |
| Kilrenny Oil Works | Fife | 1866–1873 |
| Kimmeridge Oil Shale Workings | Dorset | c. 400 BC–c. 1890 |
| Pumpherston Oil Works | West Lothian | 1883-84–1964 (refinery) |
| Tarbrax Oil Shale Mine | South Lanarkshire | 1870–1930s |
| West Pitcorthie Shale Mines | Fife | from 1866 |
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