carbonising

Carbonising, also known as carbonization or charring, is a thermochemical decomposition of organic material at elevated temperatures in the absence of oxygen or a controlled oxygen supply. This process converts complex organic compounds into carbon-rich residues, primarily in the form of char or coke, along with volatile byproducts like gases and liquids. The primary goal of carbonising is to remove volatile components and increase the carbon content of the material.

The process typically involves heating the organic substance, such as wood, coal, or biomass, in a sealed or partially sealed environment. As the temperature rises, the material undergoes pyrolysis, breaking down into simpler molecules. Water, methane, carbon dioxide, and other volatile compounds are driven off, leaving behind a solid residue that is predominantly carbon. The specific temperature and duration of the process, as well as the type of organic material, influence the properties of the resulting carbonised product.

Carbonising has a wide range of applications. It is fundamental to the production of charcoal from wood, a fuel source and absorbent. In metallurgy, coal is carbonised to produce coke, an essential reducing agent and fuel in blast furnaces for iron and steel production. Biomass carbonisation, often referred to as pyrolysis, is gaining attention as a method for producing biochar, which can be used as a soil amendment, a carbon sequestration tool, and a source of renewable energy. The resulting char can also have applications in filtration and as an additive in various materials.