"A National Oil Shale Reference Sample Bank (OSSB) has been established to provide DOE researchers with well characterized and well mixed material of uniform particle size for use in experimental programs. Availability of carefully documented and homogeneous samples will enable investigators to more accurately compare experimental results especially in the case of comparative studies of process technology. The sample bank also provide. a more convenient way for researchers to quickly obtain materials for laboratory programs at no cost to the program. Samples are distributed primarily to DOE contractors. Non-DOE contractors may obtain reference samples pending DOE approval. A primary objective of the OSSB program is to obtain bulk Oil shale samples from locals in the Eastern and Western United States. Terra Tek's responsibilities include identification of potential bulk sampling sites, verification of oil yield, bulk sampling, shale processing, distribution of reference shales to DOE contractors and maintenance of the shale inventory for the duration of the program."