In the past, birch bark was used to make tar.
Burning birch bark and the resulting soot.
Birch is a common firewood in Estonia, but many people have noticed that it often soots up the glass doors and chimneys. Why is this? To answer this question, we need to delve into the chemical composition of birch wood and bark.
Chemical Composition of Birch Bark
Birch bark contains natural oils and resins that are highly sensitive to high temperatures. When birch burns, these oils and resins vaporize, condensing on cooler surfaces like the stove glass and chimneys, forming a layer of black soot.
Birch Tar and Tar - Truth and Myth
Burning birch bark produces liquid birch tar, which causes black soot on the glass.
In ancient times, birch bark was used to make tar, which was widely used in various fields. Tar was obtained by burning birch bark and separating it in a kiln, and it was valued for its medicinal properties. Tar was used to treat wounds, protect the skin, and even in the timber industry for waterproofing. A well-known product that contained birch tar was Vishnevsky's ointment, used for treating wounds and skin inflammations.
Birch Firewood
Despite the sooting, birch is very efficient and highly regarded as firewood. Birch has a heating value of 4.3 kWh/kg, ensuring efficient and long-lasting heating. Birch wood burns slowly and evenly, providing long-term warmth and reducing the need for frequent refueling.
How to Reduce Soot When Burning Birch Firewood?
Drying: Use only dried birch wood with a moisture content below 18%. Dried wood burns cleaner and produces less soot.
Proper Burning: Ensure sufficient airflow and ventilation in the stove to burn the wood at higher temperatures and more cleanly. Good airflow helps reduce soot formation.
Cleaning Stove Glass: Regularly clean the glass to prevent soot buildup and keep the glass clear.
Birch is an excellent firewood that provides long-term warmth and comfort. By following the right practices, you can minimize sooting and fully enjoy the heating value of birch.
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