Charcoal represents one of the man’s very first technological achievements; it was in use as early as 200,000 B.C. Wood charcoal is made by heating wood in the absence of oxygen. During this process, volatile compounds like water, methane, and tar are vaporized into the air. As a result the wood is forced to decompose into a variety of substances, but mainly elemental carbon.

Charcoal has been used since earliest times for a large range of purposes including art and medicine, but by far its most important use has been as a metallurgical fuel. Charcoal is the traditional fuel of a blacksmith’s forge and other applications where an intense heat is required.

Due to the high carbon content, charcoal has more potential energy than the wood itself. The heat that the charcoal produces can burn hotter and cleaner and efficiently than seasoned wood. Charcoal also produces a more concentrated fire.