|
While few homes in the Ireland burn coal for heat these days, it is still used by many industries, such as steel and cement plants. Natural gas and oil are generally the preferred fuel sources because they burn more cleanly and are more efficient. Coal originated as a source of fuel because vegetation trapped between layers of rock turns into coal via underground heat and pressure. The process takes millions of years, which is why coal is designated as a non-renewable resource. Coal is a long-lasting fuel source because it contains hydrogen, oxygen, and carbon.
Boiler technology has vastly improved in recent years. In older times, coal boilers or furnaces were inefficient and lost a lot of the heat they generated. Coal contains fumes within a sealed steel box. Heat exchangers extract the warm air and vent it through the same heat distribution systems that other types of boiler use. Coal-burning boilers are now preferred for central heating. Manufacturers claim this type of heater runs 50% more efficiently than older coal-burning boiler and also heats the hot water supply for the household.
The mining of coal is fraught with danger, expense and air pollution when explosions happen in mines as they regularly do, particularly in developing countries. Deadly fires frequently break out below ground in coalmines, and there is no viable way to extinguish them. These fires do not just destroy the coal; the smoke, sulfur, and carbon dioxide gases they release pollute the air. The fires also kill vegetation above ground. Underground coal fires in China destroy more coal than miners extract in that country. Some fires in the US are still burning after decades.
Coal is also a resource that is running out. Some experts claim there is only enough coal left worldwide to last about 150 years. Despite these drawbacks, in some parts of the world, coal is still a major heat source. In China and many other countries, people still burn coal in poorly ventilated and inefficient stoves. The health repercussions can be deadly.
Not all the news regarding coal is negative. Researchers interested in coal use are working on correcting its polluting properties. Their work also includes finding ways to preserve the coal supply so it will last longer. There is ongoing worldwide exploration to find new areas of coal deposits. Inventors are also creating more efficient appliances for burning coal. Coal is a great back up fuel to have with, say, electricity or gas where supply can be interrupted. You will however need a separate back boiler in your fireplace to be able to take advantage of it. However, that boiler can also burn other fuels such as wood or turf.
|
