Charcoal - Revision history

Jmdonev: 1 revision imported

2021-09-27T00:03:14Z

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energy>Ethan.boechler at 21:24, 10 September 2021

2021-09-10T21:24:42Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 21:24, 10 September 2021
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	[[Category:Lecture 2B Energy around the world]]		[[Category:Lecture 2B Energy around the world]]
	[[Category:Done 2020-01-31]]		[[Category:Done 2020-01-31]]
			[[Category:Translated to French]]
			[[fr:Charbon de bois]]
	[[File:2-3-per-meal.jpg\|400px\|right\|framed\|Figure 1. A large amount of charcoal is required to cook food on a charcoal powered stove, between 2-3 of the canisters above are needed to cook one meal. Note one canister is the size of a coffee can, ~17 [[meter\|cm]] tall (6").<ref name="RE4"/>]]		[[File:2-3-per-meal.jpg\|400px\|right\|framed\|Figure 1. A large amount of charcoal is required to cook food on a charcoal powered stove, between 2-3 of the canisters above are needed to cook one meal. Note one canister is the size of a coffee can, ~17 [[meter\|cm]] tall (6").<ref name="RE4"/>]]
	[[File:640px-Charcoal_briquets_texture.jpg\|400px\|framed\|right\|Figure 2. Charcoal briquettes are a more processed type of traditional charcoal.<ref>"Charcoal briquets texture" - http://www.public-domain-image.com/public-domain-images-pictures-free-stock-photos/textures-and-patterns-public-domain-images-pictures/rock-stone-texture-public-domain-images-pictures/charcoal-briquets-texture.jpg. Licensed under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons - http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Charcoal_briquets_texture.jpg#/media/File:Charcoal_briquets_texture.jpg</ref>]]		[[File:640px-Charcoal_briquets_texture.jpg\|400px\|framed\|right\|Figure 2. Charcoal briquettes are a more processed type of traditional charcoal.<ref>"Charcoal briquets texture" - http://www.public-domain-image.com/public-domain-images-pictures-free-stock-photos/textures-and-patterns-public-domain-images-pictures/rock-stone-texture-public-domain-images-pictures/charcoal-briquets-texture.jpg. Licensed under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons - http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Charcoal_briquets_texture.jpg#/media/File:Charcoal_briquets_texture.jpg</ref>]]

Jmdonev: 1 revision imported

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Energy>Jmdonev at 22:50, 26 January 2020

2020-01-26T22:50:17Z

Jmdonev: 1 revision imported

2018-06-25T14:30:30Z

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Jmdonev at 22:18, 21 June 2018

2018-06-21T22:18:17Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:18, 21 June 2018
Line 1:		Line 1:
	[[category:371 topics]]		[[category:371 topics]]
	[[Category:Lecture 2B Energy around the world]]		[[Category:Lecture 2B Energy around the world]]
	[[Category:Done ~~2015~~-04-01]]		[[Category:Done 2018-06-15]]
	[[File:2-3-per-meal.jpg\|400px\|right\|framed\|Figure 1. A large amount of charcoal is required to cook food on a charcoal powered stove, between 2-3 of the canisters above are needed to cook one meal. Note one canister is the size of a coffee can, ~17 [[meter\|cm]] tall (6")<ref name="RE4"/>]]		[[File:2-3-per-meal.jpg\|400px\|right\|framed\|Figure 1. A large amount of charcoal is required to cook food on a charcoal powered stove, between 2-3 of the canisters above are needed to cook one meal. Note one canister is the size of a coffee can, ~17 [[meter\|cm]] tall (6")<ref name="RE4"/>]]
	[[File:640px-Charcoal_briquets_texture.jpg\|400px\|framed\|right\|Figure 2. Charcoal briquettes are a more processed type of traditional charcoal.<ref>"Charcoal briquets texture" - http://www.public-domain-image.com/public-domain-images-pictures-free-stock-photos/textures-and-patterns-public-domain-images-pictures/rock-stone-texture-public-domain-images-pictures/charcoal-briquets-texture.jpg. Licensed under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons - http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Charcoal_briquets_texture.jpg#/media/File:Charcoal_briquets_texture.jpg</ref>]]		[[File:640px-Charcoal_briquets_texture.jpg\|400px\|framed\|right\|Figure 2. Charcoal briquettes are a more processed type of traditional charcoal.<ref>"Charcoal briquets texture" - http://www.public-domain-image.com/public-domain-images-pictures-free-stock-photos/textures-and-patterns-public-domain-images-pictures/rock-stone-texture-public-domain-images-pictures/charcoal-briquets-texture.jpg. Licensed under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons - http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Charcoal_briquets_texture.jpg#/media/File:Charcoal_briquets_texture.jpg</ref>]]

	<onlyinclude>'''Charcoal''' is a solid [[fuel]] used for heating and cooking that is created through the process of carbonisation, which is a process where complex [[carbon]] ~~substances - such~~ as [[wood]] or other [[biomass]] ~~- are~~ broken down through a slow heating process into carbon and other chemical compounds.</onlyinclude><ref name="RE1">UN Food and Agriculture Organization. (May 7, 2015). ''Industrial Charcoal Making'' [Online]. Available: http://www.fao.org/docrep/x5555e/x5555e03.htm</ref> Generally, the discussion about charcoal is more about the solid fuel used in developing economies rather than the material used in a barbeque in a developed country.		<onlyinclude>'''Charcoal''' is a solid [[fuel]] used for heating and cooking that is created through the process of carbonisation, which is a process where complex [[carbon]] substances—such as [[wood]] or other [[biomass]]—are broken down through a slow heating process into carbon and other chemical compounds.</onlyinclude><ref name="RE1">UN Food and Agriculture Organization. (May 7, 2015). ''Industrial Charcoal Making'' [Online]. Available: http://www.fao.org/docrep/x5555e/x5555e03.htm</ref> Generally, the discussion about charcoal is more about the solid fuel used in developing economies rather than the material used in a barbeque in a developed country.

	Although the use of charcoal ~~in countries in Africa~~ can be detrimental to the [[environment]], charcoal is generally a better [[fuel]] for cooking than wood. Charcoal stoves tend to burn more [[efficiency\|efficiently]] than wood stoves. This improvement is ~~nice, but charcoal is often one of the largest parts of a family's budget~~.<ref name="RE2"/> ~~As well~~, the production of charcoal is important as it provides some level of income for people who may not be able to find work in other places.		Although the use of charcoal can be detrimental to the [[environment]], and people's health, charcoal is generally a better [[fuel]] for cooking than wood. Charcoal stoves tend to burn more [[efficiency\|efficiently]] and cleanly than wood stoves. This improvement is nice—but access to [[Access to non-solid fuel\|better fuels]] would be healthier. <ref name="RE2"/> However, the production of charcoal is important as it provides some level of income for local people who may not be able to find work in other places. Charcoal is the principle energy source, in many poor areas. Since these families don't have a lot of income, charcoal is often one of the largest parts of a family's budget.

	Note that charcoal (see figure 1) is different than the briquettes frequently used on barbecues (see figure 2). Traditional charcoal has lower purity than lump charcoal or charcoal briquettes. Traditional charcoal contains mineral sand and clay that is picked up by the wood and its bark, and it contains more [[ash]] than the briquettes. Purification of traditional charcoal can be done by removing the ash through a strainer, leaving fragments of mostly good charcoal. After milling this charcoal from the sifting process, the material is put into briquettes. A binder is mixed with the milled charcoal and pressed into briquettes.<ref>UN Food and Agriculture Organization. (May 7, 2015). ''Briquetting of Charcoal'' [Online]. Available: http://www.fao.org/docrep/X5328E/x5328e0c.htm#chapter 11 briquetting of charcoal</ref> These ~~briquettes - shown~~ in Figure ~~1 - tend~~ to burn more cleanly, but are also more expensive.		Note that charcoal (see figure 1) is different than the briquettes frequently used on barbecues (see figure 2). Traditional charcoal has lower purity than lump charcoal or charcoal briquettes. Traditional charcoal contains mineral sand and clay that is picked up by the wood and its bark, and it contains more [[ash]] than the briquettes. Purification of traditional charcoal can be done by removing the ash through a strainer, leaving fragments of mostly good charcoal. After milling this charcoal from the sifting process, the material is put into briquettes. A binder is mixed with the milled charcoal and pressed into briquettes.<ref>UN Food and Agriculture Organization. (May 7, 2015). ''Briquetting of Charcoal'' [Online]. Available: http://www.fao.org/docrep/X5328E/x5328e0c.htm#chapter 11 briquetting of charcoal</ref> These briquettes—shown in Figure 2—tend to burn more cleanly, but are also more expensive.

	==Production==		==Production==
	During the production of charcoal, wood is cut down into long, cane-sized pieces and placed in some sort of closed vessel. Generally, wood structures known as charcoal piles are used (shown in Figure 2). Within these piles, the wood is heated in the absence of air ([[oxygen]]) that would otherwise allow the wood to ignite and [[combustion\|burn]] away. Since there isn't enough oxygen for this to occur, the wood is forced to decompose into a variety of ~~substances - one~~ of them being charcoal. Other substances besides charcoal are also created, one of them being ash. These products are known as by-products and can be collected for other uses.<ref name="RE1"/>		During the production of charcoal, wood is cut down into long, cane-sized pieces and placed in some sort of closed vessel. Generally, wood structures known as charcoal piles are used (shown in Figure 2). Within these piles, the wood is heated in the absence of air ([[oxygen]]) that would otherwise allow the wood to ignite and [[combustion\|burn]] away. Since there isn't enough oxygen for this to occur, the wood is forced to decompose into a variety of substances—one of them being charcoal. Other substances besides charcoal are also created, one of them being ash. These products are known as by-products and can be collected for other uses.<ref name="RE1"/>
	[[File:640px-Charcoal_Pile.jpg\|400px\|framed\|centre\|Figure 2. A charcoal pile in Hungary.<ref>"Charcoal Pile Gánt 2011 2" by User:VargaA - Own work. Licensed under GFDL via Wikimedia Commons - http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Charcoal_Pile_G%C3%A1nt_2011_2.jpg#/media/File:Charcoal_Pile_G%C3%A1nt_2011_2.jpg</ref>]]		[[File:640px-Charcoal_Pile.jpg\|400px\|framed\|centre\|Figure 2. A charcoal pile in Hungary.<ref>"Charcoal Pile Gánt 2011 2" by User:VargaA - Own work. Licensed under GFDL via Wikimedia Commons - http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Charcoal_Pile_G%C3%A1nt_2011_2.jpg#/media/File:Charcoal_Pile_G%C3%A1nt_2011_2.jpg</ref>]]
	As the wood is heated, it absorbs [[heat]] and is dried, giving off moisture in the form of [[water vapour]]. Once the wood is dry, it begins to decompose, giving off [[carbon monoxide]], [[carbon dioxide]], and other chemicals. When the [[temperature]] is raised even more, the wood structure begins to breakdown and charcoal begins to form. At a temperature of [[celsius\|400°C]], the wood has essentially become charcoal. Heating beyond this point removes more tar and increases the carbon quantity of the charcoal, improving its quality.<ref name="RE1"/>		As the wood is heated, it absorbs [[heat]] and is dried, giving off moisture in the form of [[water vapour]]. Once the wood is dry, it begins to decompose, giving off [[carbon monoxide]], [[carbon dioxide]], and other chemicals. When the [[temperature]] is raised even more, the wood structure begins to breakdown and charcoal begins to form. At a temperature of [[celsius\|400°C]], the wood has essentially become charcoal. Heating beyond this point removes more tar and increases the carbon quantity of the charcoal, improving its quality.<ref name="RE1"/>

	==Issues==		==Issues==
	There are both health and environmental issues involved with the use of charcoal as a fuel. The health issues that arise from using charcoal are the same problems that arise from the [[access to non-solid fuel#Health Risks\|~~use of~~ solid fuels]]. These health issues, due ~~primarily~~ to the smoke that is produced when the charcoal is burned,<ref name="RE2">The World Bank. (May 7, 2015). ''Tracking Access to Nonsolid Fuel for Cooking'' [Online]. Available: http://www-wds.worldbank.org/external/default/WDSContentServer/WDSP/IB/2014/05/15/000333037_20140515114123/Rendered/PDF/880590BRI0know00Box385214B00PUBLIC0.pdf</ref> includes an increased number of cases of pneumonia, stroke, heart disease, and lung cancer.<ref name="RE3">The World Health Organization. (May 7, 2015). ''Household Air Pollution'' [Online]. Available: http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs292/en/</ref> Overall, the World Health Organization estimates that there are 4 million deaths per year that are partially caused by the use of solid fuels, including charcoal.<ref name="RE2"/>		There are both health and environmental issues involved with the use of charcoal as a fuel. The health issues that arise from using charcoal are the same problems that arise from the use of other [[access to non-solid fuel#Health Risks\|solid fuels]]. These health issues, primarily due to the [[smoke]] that is produced when the charcoal is burned,<ref name="RE2">The World Bank. (May 7, 2015). ''Tracking Access to Nonsolid Fuel for Cooking'' [Online]. Available: http://www-wds.worldbank.org/external/default/WDSContentServer/WDSP/IB/2014/05/15/000333037_20140515114123/Rendered/PDF/880590BRI0know00Box385214B00PUBLIC0.pdf</ref> includes an increased number of cases of pneumonia, stroke, heart disease, and lung cancer.<ref name="RE3">The World Health Organization. (May 7, 2015). ''Household Air Pollution'' [Online]. Available: http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs292/en/</ref> Overall, the World Health Organization estimates that there are 4 million deaths per year that are partially caused by the use of solid fuels, including charcoal.<ref name="RE2"/>
	The ~~change~~ from using wood to charcoal could have significant environmental issues ~~caused by~~ the process ~~by which~~ charcoal ~~is created~~. One primary aspect of charcoal ~~that is of concern~~ is that it is produced from forest ~~resources, and results~~ in the extensive use of forest biomass which could represent a potential issue in regards to environmental harm. Due to the large amount of charcoal that is ~~needed - about~~ 2-3 tins the size of the containers in Figure ~~1 - deforestation~~ could be an issue if high demand is paired with poor forest management and regulations.<ref ~~name=~~"~~RE3~~"~~>UN Food and Agriculture Organization. (May 7~~, ~~2015)~~. ~~''Wood Energy''~~ [Online]. Available: ~~http~~://www.~~fao~~.~~org~~/~~docrep~~/~~005/y4450e/y4450e10~~.~~htm~~</ref>		The shift from using wood to charcoal could have significant environmental issues due to the process that converts wood to charcoal. One primary, concerning aspect of charcoal is that it is produced from forest resources—resulting in the extensive use of forest biomass which could represent a potential issue in regards to environmental harm. Due to the large amount of charcoal that is needed—about 2-3 tins the size of the containers in Figure 1—deforestation could be an issue if high demand is paired with poor forest management and regulations.<ref>G. Sousa, "Deforestation Triggered By Charcoal Production Around The World", WorldAtlas, 2018. [Online]. Available: https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/world-regions-with-the-highestdeforestation-triggered-by-unsustainable-charcoal-production.html. [Accessed: 24- May- 2018]</ref>

	In addition to being a health and environmental risk, charcoal is also inefficient and dirty, creating a large amount of black soot. Charcoal stoves have about a 10% efficiency, meaning that 90% of the heat is lost while burning.<ref name="RE4">Jen Boynton. (May 7, 2015). ''The Real Story on Charcoal for African Cookstoves'' [Online]. Available: http://www.triplepundit.com/2012/05/story-charcoal-african-cookstoves/ used with permission in private correspondence with Jen Boynton May 6th, 2015.</ref> Because of this inefficiency, charcoal stoves can take up to 30 minutes to heat up, making cooking a long and difficult task. ~~As well~~, the temperature of the stove is difficult to control, making cooking a more difficult task.<ref name="RE4"/>		In addition to being a health and environmental risk, charcoal is also inefficient and dirty, creating a large amount of black soot. Charcoal stoves have about a 10% efficiency, meaning that 90% of the heat is lost while burning.<ref name="RE4">Jen Boynton. (May 7, 2015). ''The Real Story on Charcoal for African Cookstoves'' [Online]. Available: http://www.triplepundit.com/2012/05/story-charcoal-african-cookstoves/ used with permission in private correspondence with Jen Boynton May 6th, 2015.</ref> Because of this inefficiency, charcoal stoves can take up to 30 minutes to heat up, making cooking a long and difficult task. In addition, the temperature of the stove is difficult to control, making cooking a more difficult task.<ref name="RE4"/>

	==Interactive Map==		==Interactive Map==
	Access to non-solid fuels can minimize the amount of charcoal a family uses and thus decrease negative health side effects. However, access to these fuels differs drastically across the globe. Below is a map showing the percentage of a country's population that had access to non-solid fuel in 2010.<ref>World Bank. (May 7, 2015). ''Access to non-solid fuel (% population)'' [Online]. Available: http://data.worldbank.org/indicator/EG.NSF.ACCS.ZS</ref> Note that the methodology doesn't distinguish numbers below 5% or above 95% access, which is why Canada is listed as having 95% access.		Access to non-solid fuels can minimize the amount of charcoal a family uses and thus decrease negative health side effects. However, access to these fuels differs drastically across the globe. Below is a map showing the percentage of a country's population that had access to non-solid fuel in 2010.<ref>World Bank. (May 7, 2015). ''Access to non-solid fuel (% population)'' [Online]. Available: http://data.worldbank.org/indicator/EG.NSF.ACCS.ZS</ref> Note that the methodology doesn't distinguish numbers below 5% or above 95% access, which is why Canada is listed as having 95% access.
	<html><iframe src="~~http~~://www.energyeducation.ca/simulations/graphs/nonsolidfuel.html" class="interactive-geo" scrolling='no'></iframe></html>		<html><iframe src="https://www.energyeducation.ca/simulations/graphs/nonsolidfuel.html" class="interactive-geo" scrolling='no'></iframe></html>

			==For Further Reading==
			*[[Incomplete combustion]]
			*[[Access to non-solid fuel]]
			*[[Access to electricity]]
			*[[Chemical energy]]
			*[[Hydrocarbon combustion]]
			*[[Efficiency]]
			*Or explore a [[Special:Random\| random page]]

	==References==		==References==
	{{reflist}}		{{reflist}}
	[[Category:Uploaded]]		[[Category:Uploaded]]

J.williams: 1 revision imported

2015-08-26T21:30:53Z

1 revision imported

← Older revision	Revision as of 21:30, 26 August 2015
(No difference)

J.williams at 16:51, 12 August 2015

2015-08-12T16:51:40Z

New page

[[category:371 topics]]
[[Category:Lecture 2B Energy around the world]]
[[Category:Done 2015-04-01]]
[[File:2-3-per-meal.jpg|400px|right|framed|Figure 1. A large amount of charcoal is required to cook food on a charcoal powered stove, between 2-3 of the canisters above are needed to cook one meal. Note one canister is the size of a coffee can, ~17 [[meter|cm]] tall (6")<ref name="RE4"/>]]
[[File:640px-Charcoal_briquets_texture.jpg|400px|framed|right|Figure 2. Charcoal briquettes are a more processed type of traditional charcoal.<ref>"Charcoal briquets texture" - http://www.public-domain-image.com/public-domain-images-pictures-free-stock-photos/textures-and-patterns-public-domain-images-pictures/rock-stone-texture-public-domain-images-pictures/charcoal-briquets-texture.jpg. Licensed under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons - http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Charcoal_briquets_texture.jpg#/media/File:Charcoal_briquets_texture.jpg</ref>]]

<onlyinclude>'''Charcoal''' is a solid [[fuel]] used for heating and cooking that is created through the process of carbonisation, which is a process where complex [[carbon]] substances - such as [[wood]] or other [[biomass]] - are broken down through a slow heating process into carbon and other chemical compounds.</onlyinclude><ref name="RE1">UN Food and Agriculture Organization. (May 7, 2015). ''Industrial Charcoal Making'' [Online]. Available: http://www.fao.org/docrep/x5555e/x5555e03.htm</ref> Generally, the discussion about charcoal is more about the solid fuel used in developing economies rather than the material used in a barbeque in a developed country.

Although the use of charcoal in countries in Africa can be detrimental to the [[environment]], charcoal is generally a better [[fuel]] for cooking than wood. Charcoal stoves tend to burn more [[efficiency|efficiently]] than wood stoves. This improvement is nice, but charcoal is often one of the largest parts of a family's budget.<ref name="RE2"/> As well, the production of charcoal is important as it provides some level of income for people who may not be able to find work in other places.

Note that charcoal (see figure 1) is different than the briquettes frequently used on barbecues (see figure 2). Traditional charcoal has lower purity than lump charcoal or charcoal briquettes. Traditional charcoal contains mineral sand and clay that is picked up by the wood and its bark, and it contains more [[ash]] than the briquettes. Purification of traditional charcoal can be done by removing the ash through a strainer, leaving fragments of mostly good charcoal. After milling this charcoal from the sifting process, the material is put into briquettes. A binder is mixed with the milled charcoal and pressed into briquettes.<ref>UN Food and Agriculture Organization. (May 7, 2015). ''Briquetting of Charcoal'' [Online]. Available: http://www.fao.org/docrep/X5328E/x5328e0c.htm#chapter 11 briquetting of charcoal</ref> These briquettes - shown in Figure 1 - tend to burn more cleanly, but are also more expensive.

==Production==
During the production of charcoal, wood is cut down into long, cane-sized pieces and placed in some sort of closed vessel. Generally, wood structures known as charcoal piles are used (shown in Figure 2). Within these piles, the wood is heated in the absence of air ([[oxygen]]) that would otherwise allow the wood to ignite and [[combustion|burn]] away. Since there isn't enough oxygen for this to occur, the wood is forced to decompose into a variety of substances - one of them being charcoal. Other substances besides charcoal are also created, one of them being ash. These products are known as by-products and can be collected for other uses.<ref name="RE1"/>
[[File:640px-Charcoal_Pile.jpg|400px|framed|centre|Figure 2. A charcoal pile in Hungary.<ref>"Charcoal Pile Gánt 2011 2" by User:VargaA - Own work. Licensed under GFDL via Wikimedia Commons - http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Charcoal_Pile_G%C3%A1nt_2011_2.jpg#/media/File:Charcoal_Pile_G%C3%A1nt_2011_2.jpg</ref>]]
As the wood is heated, it absorbs [[heat]] and is dried, giving off moisture in the form of [[water vapour]]. Once the wood is dry, it begins to decompose, giving off [[carbon monoxide]], [[carbon dioxide]], and other chemicals. When the [[temperature]] is raised even more, the wood structure begins to breakdown and charcoal begins to form. At a temperature of [[celsius|400°C]], the wood has essentially become charcoal. Heating beyond this point removes more tar and increases the carbon quantity of the charcoal, improving its quality.<ref name="RE1"/>

==Issues==
There are both health and environmental issues involved with the use of charcoal as a fuel. The health issues that arise from using charcoal are the same problems that arise from the [[access to non-solid fuel#Health Risks|use of solid fuels]]. These health issues, due primarily to the smoke that is produced when the charcoal is burned,<ref name="RE2">The World Bank. (May 7, 2015). ''Tracking Access to Nonsolid Fuel for Cooking'' [Online]. Available: http://www-wds.worldbank.org/external/default/WDSContentServer/WDSP/IB/2014/05/15/000333037_20140515114123/Rendered/PDF/880590BRI0know00Box385214B00PUBLIC0.pdf</ref> includes an increased number of cases of pneumonia, stroke, heart disease, and lung cancer.<ref name="RE3">The World Health Organization. (May 7, 2015). ''Household Air Pollution'' [Online]. Available: http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs292/en/</ref> Overall, the World Health Organization estimates that there are 4 million deaths per year that are partially caused by the use of solid fuels, including charcoal.<ref name="RE2"/>
The change from using wood to charcoal could have significant environmental issues caused by the process by which charcoal is created. One primary aspect of charcoal that is of concern is that it is produced from forest resources, and results in the extensive use of forest biomass which could represent a potential issue in regards to environmental harm. Due to the large amount of charcoal that is needed - about 2-3 tins the size of the containers in Figure 1 - deforestation could be an issue if high demand is paired with poor forest management and regulations.<ref name="RE3">UN Food and Agriculture Organization. (May 7, 2015). ''Wood Energy'' [Online]. Available: http://www.fao.org/docrep/005/y4450e/y4450e10.htm</ref>

In addition to being a health and environmental risk, charcoal is also inefficient and dirty, creating a large amount of black soot. Charcoal stoves have about a 10% efficiency, meaning that 90% of the heat is lost while burning.<ref name="RE4">Jen Boynton. (May 7, 2015). ''The Real Story on Charcoal for African Cookstoves'' [Online]. Available: http://www.triplepundit.com/2012/05/story-charcoal-african-cookstoves/ used with permission in private correspondence with Jen Boynton May 6th, 2015.</ref> Because of this inefficiency, charcoal stoves can take up to 30 minutes to heat up, making cooking a long and difficult task. As well, the temperature of the stove is difficult to control, making cooking a more difficult task.<ref name="RE4"/>

==Interactive Map==
Access to non-solid fuels can minimize the amount of charcoal a family uses and thus decrease negative health side effects. However, access to these fuels differs drastically across the globe. Below is a map showing the percentage of a country's population that had access to non-solid fuel in 2010.<ref>World Bank. (May 7, 2015). ''Access to non-solid fuel (% population)'' [Online]. Available: http://data.worldbank.org/indicator/EG.NSF.ACCS.ZS</ref> Note that the methodology doesn't distinguish numbers below 5% or above 95% access, which is why Canada is listed as having 95% access.
<html><iframe src="http://www.energyeducation.ca/simulations/graphs/nonsolidfuel.html" class="interactive-geo" scrolling='no'></iframe></html>

==References==
{{reflist}}
[[Category:Uploaded]]

← Older revision		Revision as of 22:50, 26 January 2020
Line 1:		Line 1:
	[[category:371 topics]]		[[category:371 topics]]
	[[Category:Lecture 2B Energy around the world]]		[[Category:Lecture 2B Energy around the world]]
	[[Category:Done ~~2018~~-06-15]]		[[Category:Done 2020-01-31]]
	[[File:2-3-per-meal.jpg\|400px\|right\|framed\|Figure 1. A large amount of charcoal is required to cook food on a charcoal powered stove, between 2-3 of the canisters above are needed to cook one meal. Note one canister is the size of a coffee can, ~17 [[meter\|cm]] tall (6")<ref name="RE4"/>]]		[[File:2-3-per-meal.jpg\|400px\|right\|framed\|Figure 1. A large amount of charcoal is required to cook food on a charcoal powered stove, between 2-3 of the canisters above are needed to cook one meal. Note one canister is the size of a coffee can, ~17 [[meter\|cm]] tall (6").<ref name="RE4"/>]]
	[[File:640px-Charcoal_briquets_texture.jpg\|400px\|framed\|right\|Figure 2. Charcoal briquettes are a more processed type of traditional charcoal.<ref>"Charcoal briquets texture" - http://www.public-domain-image.com/public-domain-images-pictures-free-stock-photos/textures-and-patterns-public-domain-images-pictures/rock-stone-texture-public-domain-images-pictures/charcoal-briquets-texture.jpg. Licensed under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons - http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Charcoal_briquets_texture.jpg#/media/File:Charcoal_briquets_texture.jpg</ref>]]		[[File:640px-Charcoal_briquets_texture.jpg\|400px\|framed\|right\|Figure 2. Charcoal briquettes are a more processed type of traditional charcoal.<ref>"Charcoal briquets texture" - http://www.public-domain-image.com/public-domain-images-pictures-free-stock-photos/textures-and-patterns-public-domain-images-pictures/rock-stone-texture-public-domain-images-pictures/charcoal-briquets-texture.jpg. Licensed under Public Domain via Wikimedia Commons - http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Charcoal_briquets_texture.jpg#/media/File:Charcoal_briquets_texture.jpg</ref>]]

	<onlyinclude>'''Charcoal''' is a solid [[fuel]] used for heating and cooking that is created through the process of carbonisation, which is a process where complex [[carbon]] substances—such as [[wood]] or other [[biomass]]—are broken down through a slow heating process into carbon and other chemical compounds.</onlyinclude><ref name="RE1">UN Food and Agriculture Organization. (May 7, 2015). ''Industrial Charcoal Making'' [Online]. Available: http://www.fao.org/docrep/x5555e/x5555e03.htm</ref> Generally, the discussion about charcoal is more about the solid fuel used in developing economies rather than the material used in a barbeque in a developed country.		<onlyinclude>'''Charcoal''' is a solid [[fuel]] used for heating and cooking that is created through the process of carbonisation, which is a process where complex [[carbon]] substances—such as [[wood]] or other [[biomass]]—are broken down through a slow heating process into carbon and other chemical compounds.</onlyinclude><ref name="RE1">UN Food and Agriculture Organization. (May 7, 2015). ''Industrial Charcoal Making'' [Online]. Available: http://www.fao.org/docrep/x5555e/x5555e03.htm</ref> Generally, the discussion about charcoal is more about the solid fuel used in developing economies rather than the material used in a barbeque in a developed country.

	Although the use of charcoal can be detrimental to the [[environment]], and people's health, charcoal is generally a better [[fuel]] for cooking than wood. Charcoal stoves tend to burn more [[efficiency\|efficiently]] and cleanly than wood stoves. This improvement is nice—but access to [[Access to non-solid fuel\|better fuels]] would be healthier. <ref name="RE2"/> However, the production of charcoal is important as it provides some level of income for local people who may not be able to find work in other places. Charcoal is the principle energy source, in many poor areas. Since these families don't have a lot of income, charcoal is often one of the largest parts of a family's budget.		Although the use of charcoal can be detrimental to the [[environment]], and people's health, charcoal is generally a better [[fuel]] for cooking than wood. Charcoal stoves tend to burn more [[efficiency\|efficiently]] and cleanly than wood stoves. This improvement is nice—but access to [[Access to non-solid fuel\|better fuels]] would be healthier.<ref name="RE2"/> However, the production of charcoal is important as it provides some level of income for local people who may not be able to find work in other places. Charcoal is the principle energy source in many poor areas. Since these families don't have a lot of income, charcoal is often one of the largest parts of a family's budget.

	Note that charcoal (see figure 1) is different than the briquettes frequently used on barbecues (see figure 2). Traditional charcoal has lower purity than lump charcoal or charcoal briquettes. Traditional charcoal contains mineral sand and clay that is picked up by the wood and its bark, and it contains more [[ash]] than the briquettes. Purification of traditional charcoal can be done by removing the ash through a strainer, leaving fragments of mostly good charcoal. After milling this charcoal from the sifting process, the material is put into briquettes. A binder is mixed with the milled charcoal and pressed into briquettes.<ref>UN Food and Agriculture Organization. (May 7, 2015). ''Briquetting of Charcoal'' [Online]. Available: http://www.fao.org/docrep/X5328E/x5328e0c.htm#chapter 11 briquetting of charcoal</ref> These briquettes—shown in Figure 2—tend to burn more cleanly, but are also more expensive.		Note that charcoal (see figure 1) is different than the briquettes frequently used on barbecues (see figure 2). Traditional charcoal has lower purity than lump charcoal or charcoal briquettes. Traditional charcoal contains mineral sand and clay that is picked up by the wood and its bark, and it contains more [[ash]] than the briquettes. Purification of traditional charcoal can be done by removing the ash through a strainer, leaving fragments of mostly good charcoal. After milling this charcoal from the sifting process, the material is put into briquettes. A binder is mixed with the milled charcoal and pressed into briquettes.<ref>UN Food and Agriculture Organization. (May 7, 2015). ''Briquetting of Charcoal'' [Online]. Available: http://www.fao.org/docrep/X5328E/x5328e0c.htm#chapter 11 briquetting of charcoal</ref> These briquettes—shown in Figure 2—tend to burn more cleanly, but are also more expensive.

	==Production==		==Production==
	During the production of charcoal, wood is cut down into long, cane-sized pieces and placed in some sort of closed vessel. Generally, wood structures known as charcoal piles are used (shown in Figure 2). Within these piles, the wood is heated in the absence of air ([[oxygen]]) that would otherwise allow the wood to ignite and [[combustion\|burn]] away. Since there isn't enough oxygen for this to occur, the wood is forced to decompose into a variety of substances—one of them being charcoal. Other substances besides charcoal are also created, one of them being ash. These products are known as by-products and can be collected for other uses.<ref name="RE1"/>		During the production of charcoal, wood is cut down into long, cane-sized pieces and placed in some sort of closed vessel. Generally, wood structures known as charcoal piles are used (shown in Figure 3). Within these piles, the wood is heated in the absence of air ([[oxygen]]) that would otherwise allow the wood to ignite and [[combustion\|burn]] away. Since there isn't enough oxygen for this to occur, the wood is forced to decompose into a variety of substances—one of them being charcoal. Other substances besides charcoal are also created, one of them being ash. These products are known as by-products and can be collected for other uses.<ref name="RE1"/>
	[[File:640px-Charcoal_Pile.jpg\|400px\|framed\|centre\|Figure 2. A charcoal pile in Hungary.<ref>"Charcoal Pile Gánt 2011 2" by User:VargaA - Own work. Licensed under GFDL via Wikimedia Commons - http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Charcoal_Pile_G%C3%A1nt_2011_2.jpg#/media/File:Charcoal_Pile_G%C3%A1nt_2011_2.jpg</ref>]]		[[File:640px-Charcoal_Pile.jpg\|400px\|framed\|centre\|Figure 3. A charcoal pile in Hungary.<ref>"Charcoal Pile Gánt 2011 2" by User:VargaA - Own work. Licensed under GFDL via Wikimedia Commons - http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Charcoal_Pile_G%C3%A1nt_2011_2.jpg#/media/File:Charcoal_Pile_G%C3%A1nt_2011_2.jpg</ref>]]
	As the wood is heated, it absorbs [[heat]] and is dried, giving off moisture in the form of [[water vapour]]. Once the wood is dry, it begins to decompose, giving off [[carbon monoxide]], [[carbon dioxide]], and other chemicals. When the [[temperature]] is raised even more, the wood structure begins to breakdown and charcoal begins to form. At a temperature of [[celsius\|400°C]], the wood has essentially become charcoal. Heating beyond this point removes more tar and increases the carbon quantity of the charcoal, improving its quality.<ref name="RE1"/>		As the wood is heated, it absorbs [[heat]] and is dried, giving off moisture in the form of [[water vapour]]. Once the wood is dry, it begins to decompose, giving off [[carbon monoxide]], [[carbon dioxide]], and other chemicals. When the [[temperature]] is raised even more, the wood structure begins to breakdown and charcoal begins to form. At a temperature of [[celsius\|400°C]], the wood has essentially become charcoal. Heating beyond this point removes more tar and increases the carbon quantity of the charcoal, improving its quality.<ref name="RE1"/>

	==Issues==		==Issues==
	There are both health and environmental issues involved with the use of charcoal as a fuel. The health issues that arise from using charcoal are the same problems that arise from the use of other [[access to non-solid fuel#Health Risks\|solid fuels]]. These health issues, primarily due to the [[smoke]] that is produced when the charcoal is burned,<ref name="RE2">The World Bank. (May 7, 2015). ''Tracking Access to Nonsolid Fuel for Cooking'' [Online]. Available: http://www-wds.worldbank.org/external/default/WDSContentServer/WDSP/IB/2014/05/15/000333037_20140515114123/Rendered/PDF/880590BRI0know00Box385214B00PUBLIC0.pdf</ref> ~~includes~~ an increased number of cases of pneumonia, stroke, heart disease, and lung cancer.<ref name="RE3">The World Health Organization. (May 7, 2015). ''Household Air Pollution'' [Online]. Available: http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs292/en/</ref> Overall, the World Health Organization estimates that there are 4 million deaths per year that are partially caused by the use of solid fuels, including charcoal.<ref name="RE2"/>		There are both health and environmental issues involved with the use of charcoal as a fuel. The health issues that arise from using charcoal are the same problems that arise from the use of other [[access to non-solid fuel#Health Risks\|solid fuels]]. These health issues, primarily due to the [[smoke]] that is produced when the charcoal is burned,<ref name="RE2">The World Bank. (May 7, 2015). ''Tracking Access to Nonsolid Fuel for Cooking'' [Online]. Available: http://www-wds.worldbank.org/external/default/WDSContentServer/WDSP/IB/2014/05/15/000333037_20140515114123/Rendered/PDF/880590BRI0know00Box385214B00PUBLIC0.pdf</ref> include an increased number of cases of pneumonia, stroke, heart disease, and lung cancer.<ref name="RE3">The World Health Organization. (May 7, 2015). ''Household Air Pollution'' [Online]. Available: http://www.who.int/mediacentre/factsheets/fs292/en/</ref> Overall, the World Health Organization estimates that there are 4 million deaths per year that are partially caused by the use of solid fuels, including charcoal.<ref name="RE2"/>
	The shift from using wood to charcoal could have significant environmental issues due to the process that converts wood to charcoal. One primary, concerning aspect of charcoal is that it is produced from forest resources—resulting in the extensive use of forest biomass which could represent a potential issue in regards to environmental harm. Due to the large amount of charcoal that is needed—about 2-3 tins the size of the containers in Figure 1—deforestation could be an issue if high demand is paired with poor forest management and regulations.<ref>G. Sousa, "Deforestation Triggered By Charcoal Production Around The World", WorldAtlas, 2018. [Online]. Available: https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/world-regions-with-the-highestdeforestation-triggered-by-unsustainable-charcoal-production.html. [Accessed: 24- May- 2018]</ref>		The shift from using wood to charcoal could have significant environmental issues due to the process that converts wood to charcoal. One primary, concerning aspect of charcoal is that it is produced from forest resources—resulting in the extensive use of forest biomass which could represent a potential issue in regards to environmental harm. Due to the large amount of charcoal that is needed—about 2-3 tins the size of the containers in Figure 1—deforestation could be an issue if high demand is paired with poor forest management and regulations.<ref>G. Sousa, "Deforestation Triggered By Charcoal Production Around The World", WorldAtlas, 2018. [Online]. Available: https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/world-regions-with-the-highestdeforestation-triggered-by-unsustainable-charcoal-production.html. [Accessed: 24- May- 2018]</ref>

	In addition to being a health and environmental risk, charcoal is also inefficient and dirty, creating a large amount of black soot. Charcoal stoves have about a 10% efficiency, meaning that 90% of the heat is lost while burning.<ref name="RE4">Jen Boynton. (May 7, 2015). ''The Real Story on Charcoal for African Cookstoves'' [Online]. Available: http://www.triplepundit.com/2012/05/story-charcoal-african-cookstoves/ used with permission in private correspondence with Jen Boynton May 6th, 2015.</ref> Because of this inefficiency, charcoal stoves can take up to 30 minutes to heat up, ~~making cooking a long and difficult task. In addition,~~ the temperature ~~of the stove~~ is difficult to control, making cooking a ~~more~~ difficult task.<ref name="RE4"/>		In addition to being a health and environmental risk, charcoal is also inefficient and dirty, creating a large amount of black soot. Charcoal stoves have about a 10% efficiency, meaning that 90% of the heat is lost while burning.<ref name="RE4">Jen Boynton. (May 7, 2015). ''The Real Story on Charcoal for African Cookstoves'' [Online]. Available: http://www.triplepundit.com/2012/05/story-charcoal-african-cookstoves/ used with permission in private correspondence with Jen Boynton May 6th, 2015.</ref> Because of this inefficiency, charcoal stoves can take up to 30 minutes to heat up, also the stove's temperature is difficult to control, making cooking a long and difficult task.<ref name="RE4"/>

	==Interactive Map==		==Interactive Map==