Antracit

Antracit, known in English as anthracite, is a hard, dense form of coal and the highest rank of coal. It contains the most carbon and the fewest impurities among coals, and it typically has a glossy black appearance and a very hard, brittle texture. Anthracite forms from bituminous coal under high temperature and pressure during tectonic compression of coal seams.

Geologically, anthracite occurs in regions where ancient coal beds were subjected to metamorphism. Major deposits are found in the United States (notably Pennsylvania), Russia, China and Ukraine, with additional occurrences elsewhere.

Properties include a high carbon content (one of the highest among coals), very low volatile matter and moisture, high energy density, and a metallic lustre. It burns with a hot, clean flame and relatively low smoke, making it desirable for heating and industrial use.

Uses: In some regions it is used as a domestic heating fuel and in industrial burners where clean combustion is valued. It is also used as a filtration medium in water treatment and in other specialty filtration applications due to its stability.

Environmental and economic aspects: Anthracite mining has historical significance in several regions; burning anthracite emits typical combustion products, but its low volatile content can result in smoother burning with less soot in certain appliances. Mining and processing require environmental management.