Coal has a very important value for human history since it was discovered. Although the world is shifting towards greener alternatives, coal is still a critical energy source for many sectors.
Everything About Coal
What is Coal and How is it Formed?
Coal is a fossil fuel. Millions of years ago, Coal emerged from ancient plant in swampy and oxygen-deprived environments . Over time, under intense heat and pressure, this material turns into a carbon-rich energy source.
The Historical Significance of Coal
Coal in Early Civilizations
The use of coal, dates back thousands of years. Archaeological evidence shows that the Chinese were among the first to use coal as a fuel source. In ancient Rome, coal was also used for heating and metal processing. As wood resources decreased in medieval Europe, coal consumption began to become widespread. 13. During the century, coal mining had begun in England, and coal was transported via waterways to industries such as blacksmithing.
The Industrial Revolution
During this period, fuel began to be used in steam engines, factories, and later on railways. The Industrial Revolution in countries such as Great Britain, the United States and Germany (18. and 19. it gained significant importance during the century). Coal has created a revolution, facilitating large-scale industrial processes and transportation. Over time, it has become the most widely used energy source worldwide.
War Times
I. World War II and World War II. During World War II, coal played an important role in powering war industries and military operations. It was used to generate electricity, power factories producing ammunition, feed ships and trains for transportation. During the Second World War, coal had become important for both military transport and aircraft production. Coal has become a strategic energy source as many countries face oil shortages.
In Today’s World, Coal’s Applications: Powering the World
1. Energy Generation
The most common use of coal is in electricity generation. To generate electricity, power plants burn coal to produce steam that drives turbines. Bituminous and semi-bituminous coals are mostly used for this purpose because of their calorific value.
2. Industrial Manufacturing
In various sectors, coal plays a very important role involving high temperature processes, providing energy and raw materials. In the industry, coal is widely used in steel production (through coke), cement production. Coal also used as a heat source in industries such as aluminum production, paper production and textile factories. Despite the increasing shift towards cleaner energy, it is still widely used in industry. Because it is an affordable and accessible resource.
3. Residential Heating
Anthracite coal contains high carbon. Especially in colder climates, where coal stoves and furnaces are still in use, anthracite coal is used to heat homes. Although it is less common today, it remains an efficient heating option.
4. Chemical Industry
Coal is an raw material in the production of chemicals such as ammonia, methanol and synthetic gases. It is very good carbon source in coal gasification, in which coal is converted into synthesis gas.
Environmental Impact and Challenges
Despite its different uses in different sectors, coal has critical environmental impacts. It causes global warming and air pollution, and is a source of CO2 emissions.
As a result, while coal is a critical energy provider, especially in developing economies, the world is increasingly turning to cleaner energy sources.
References:
Clean coal technologies in the ASEAN. FutureCoal. (2024, March 1). https://www.futurecoal.org/clean-coal-technologies-in-the-asean/
Iea. (n.d.). Coal 2023 – analysis. IEA. https://www.iea.org/reports/coal-2023
U.S. Energy Information Administration - EIA - independent statistics and analysis. Coal explained - U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA). (n.d.). https://www.eia.gov/energyexplained/coal/
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