charcoal

Charcoal is a lightweight, porous form of carbon produced by heating organic material in low-oxygen conditions, a process known as pyrolysis. The most common source is wood, but other biomass such as coconut shells or peat can be used. Lump charcoal consists of simple pieces derived from hardwoods, while charcoal briquettes are manufactured products that include binders and other additives to improve consistency and lighting. Production takes place in kilns or retorts, where limited oxygen prevents burning and promotes carbonization.

Historically, charcoal has been essential for metalworking and smelting, providing a high-carbon fuel with relatively few impurities. It also played a role in gunpowder production and has long been used in art as drawing charcoal. In modern contexts, charcoal serves as a fuel for cooking and heating and as activated charcoal, which has a very large surface area and is used to adsorb impurities in air and water, as well as in medical settings to treat certain poisonings. Activated charcoal differs from regular charcoal in its processing to enhance adsorption.

Safety, health, and environmental considerations accompany charcoal use. Burning charcoal releases carbon monoxide and other pollutants, so it should be used with adequate ventilation. Briquettes may contain additives, and product composition can affect emissions. The production and sourcing of charcoal raise environmental concerns related to deforestation and energy use, making sustainable sourcing and cleaner production methods important. Activated charcoal is widely used in filtration, deodorization, and purification processes, illustrating the contrast between charcoal as a fuel and as a material for adsorption.