What Happens When Wood Burns? Article 3 of 3

This is the third of three articles posted on the above subject.
1. Evaporation of water. Posted 4/22/08
2. The emission of smoke. Posted 4/24/08

3. The charcoal phase.


The charcoal phase:

As the fire progresses and most of the gases and tars have vaporized out of the wood, charcoal remains. Charcoal is almost 100% carbon and burns with a red glow and very little flame or smoke. Charcoal is a good fuel that burns easily and cleanly when enough oxygen is present.