Within the new vitrinite classification (ICCP System 1994) the maceral group vitrinite is divided into three subgroups, telovitrinite, detrovitrinite and gelovitrinite, which are each further sub-divided into two macerals. The dominant parameter for these newly ordered and in part newly defined sub-groups is the degree of destruction (degradation), whereas the macerals can be further distinguished by their morphological characteristica and their degree of gelification. The new system is furthermore related more closely to the huminite classification system still in use and a future one to be published by the ICCP.