Abstract: In order to evaluate the coal-measure source rock in Huainan Coalfield, on the basis of collecting relevant samples, the mineral characteristics, organic matter content, macerals composition and maturity in mud shale of the Lower Shihezi Formation in this coalfield were tested. The results showed that in mud shale of lo wer Shihezi Formation, the content of quartz was about 35%, clay mineral is about56.28%; the average content of organic carbon is 1.21%; type of kerogen was II mai nly, or ||2 which was near III mainly, these factors are beneficial to hydrocarbon generation. Vitrinite reflectance of samples was greater than 0.7%, hydrocarbon genera tion peak temperature was higher than 445°C; organic matter had entered the mature stage. In addition, the seams of coal or coal lines also provide material basis for h ydrocarbon generation. The comprehensive research shows that source rocks in the lower Shihezi Formation has good potential of hydrocarbon generation, but the con tent of clay mineral is high, it may take some adverse effects for later exploit.