The type of coal that is almost pure carbon is anthracite.
Characteristics of Anthracite:
– Highest carbon content (86–98%) among all coal types.
– Lowest moisture and volatile matter, making it the cleanest-burning coal.
– High energy density (nearly 15,000 BTU per pound).
– Hard, shiny, and black in appearance.
Anthracite forms under the highest pressure and temperature conditions during coalification, resulting in its high carbon purity. It is primarily used for heating and metallurgical processes due to its efficiency and low emissions compared to other coals like bituminous or lignite.
Other coal types (in order of increasing carbon content and decreasing impurities):
1. Peat (lowest carbon, high moisture)
2. Lignite (brown coal)
3. Sub-bituminous
4. Bituminous (most commonly used for electricity)
5. Anthracite (highest grade, nearly pure carbon).
Would you like details on its uses or formation process?