põlevkivide
Põlevkivide, also known as oil shale, is a sedimentary rock containing significant amounts of solid organic matter called kerogen. When heated to high temperatures, kerogen decomposes and yields liquid hydrocarbons, commonly referred to as shale oil. This process is known as retorting. Põlevkivide deposits are found in various parts of the world, with the most significant reserves in Estonia, Russia, the United States, and China. Estonia, in particular, has a long history of utilizing põlevkivide as a primary energy source, powering its electricity generation and even used in cement production.
The extraction and processing of põlevkivide involve considerable environmental considerations. Mining operations can disrupt landscapes and
Economically, põlevkivide presents a potential alternative to conventional fossil fuels, especially in regions with substantial deposits.