smokeless

Smokeless is an adjective used to describe substances or products that produce little or no visible smoke when they burn or are used. The term is most often encountered in three domains: tobacco, propellants, and fuels.

Smokeless tobacco refers to products that are used without burning, including chewing tobacco, snuff, modern nicotine pouches, and dissolvable forms. Users ingest nicotine through mucous membranes rather than by inhaling smoke. Health authorities warn of addiction and risks such as cancers of the oral cavity, gums, and esophagus, as well as cardiovascular effects. Regulations vary by country, with age limits, labeling, and packaging requirements intended to reduce initiation and exposure.

Smokeless powder is a nitrocellulose-based propellant developed in the late 19th century for firearms. It burns rapidly to mostly gaseous products, producing far less smoke than black powder. This reduction improves visibility and accuracy and lowers fouling. Double-base formulations may include nitroglycerin for greater energy. Safety, storage, and handling are tightly controlled due to flammability and sensitivity to heat and moisture.

Smokeless fuels, including coke, anthracite, and specialized briquettes, were marketed to reduce urban air pollution from coal smoke. They burn with less soot and odor than ordinary coal but still produce emissions and particulates. In many regions, environmental regulations and shifts to cleaner energy have reduced their use, though they remain in certain domestic or industrial contexts.