Small-Scale Charcoal Production

Abstract

Charcoal is a fuel which has important industrial as well as domestic uses. Being made from wood~ potentially a renewable resource, the environmental implications of charcoal production require careful consideration. The process described in this profile operates with two kilns which are loaded and fired alternately. The basic sub-process involved are wood preparation, carbonization and packing of the finished product. A team of 5 workers should be able to produce 12 tonnes of charcoal per month. The fixed investment cost is under $ 5000.