Anthracite is a type of coal that is known for its high carbon content and low moisture content, making it a popular choice for heating and industrial applications. However, anthracite is also known for its difficulty to burn, which can make it challenging to use as a fuel source. In this article, we will explore the science behind anthracite’s difficulty to burn and provide guidance on how to effectively use anthracite as a fuel source.
Chemical Composition of Anthracite:
Anthracite is a type of coal that is formed from the compression of plant matter over millions of years. It is known for its high carbon content, which is typically between 86% and 98%. Anthracite also has a low moisture content, which can be as low as 3%. These characteristics make anthracite a popular choice for heating and industrial applications, as it produces a high amount of heat with minimal emissions.
Factors That Contribute to Anthracite’s Difficulty to Burn:
Low Volatility:
One of the primary factors that contribute to anthracite’s difficulty to burn is its low volatility. Volatility refers to the ability of a substance to vaporize or turn into a gas. Anthracite has a low volatility, which means that it does not easily vaporize or turn into a gas when heated. This can make it challenging to ignite and sustain a flame.
High Density:
Another factor that contributes to anthracite’s difficulty to burn is its high density. Anthracite is a very dense material, which means that it requires a high amount of heat and oxygen to ignite and sustain a flame. This can make it challenging to start a fire with anthracite, as it requires a significant amount of heat to get the fire started.
Low Porosity:
Anthracite also has a low porosity, which means that it does not have a lot of open spaces or pores that can absorb oxygen and fuel a flame. This can make it challenging to sustain a flame with anthracite, as it does not absorb oxygen as readily as other materials.
How to Effectively Use Anthracite as a Fuel Source:
Despite its difficulty to burn, anthracite can be an effective fuel source when used properly. Here are some tips for effectively using anthracite as a fuel source:
Use a high-quality stove or furnace that is designed to burn anthracite.
Use a small amount of kindling to get the fire started, and then gradually add anthracite to build the fire.
Use a hot fire starter, such as a propane torch, to help ignite the anthracite.
Use a fan or blower to help circulate air and oxygen to the fire.
Use a coal rake or poker to help move the anthracite around and maintain a consistent flame.
Keep the ash pan clean to ensure proper air flow and prevent the buildup of ash.
Conclusion:
Anthracite is a unique and valuable fuel source that is known for its high carbon content and low emissions. While it can be challenging to burn, with proper technique and equipment, anthracite can be an effective fuel source for heating and industrial applications. By understanding the science behind anthracite’s difficulty to burn and following best practices for using it as a fuel source, you can effectively harness the power of this valuable material.