Charcoal: production, marketing, and use

Charcoal will undoubtedly continue to be made for the most part from wood. This report provides information for the manufacture of charcoal in various kinds of equipment, from rather simple, inexpensive kilns to elaborate, costly byproduct-recovery plants. This information is based on Forest Service research conducted on a broad scale to stimulate conversion of low-quality wood to this widely marketable product. It is emphasized, however, that only when certain controlling factors, such as initial investment, labor and raw material costs, production efficiency, and markets, are fully considered can there be reasonable assurance of success. The important role these factors play in charcoal production is clearly shown in experience gained from experimental kiln production. Charcoal is produced by heating wood under conditions that permit the use of little or no oxygen or in limited, regulated amounts available for retarded combustion. That this point has particular significance is emphasized in much of this report.