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Updated: Jun 25, 2026
07:27
Producing, Characterizing and Quantifying Biochar in the Woods Using Portable Flame Cap Kilns
Published on: January 5, 2024
Radioactive content of charcoal.
M P Rubio Montero1, C J Durán Valle, M Jurado Vargas
1Departamento de Física Aplicada, University of Extremadura, Sta.Teresa de Jornet, 06800 Mérida (Badajoz), Spain. pilar@unex.es
Summary
Distinguishing coal and charcoal is difficult due to similar properties. Analyzing natural radionuclide content, including thorium-228, radium-226, potassium-40, and cesium-137, can reveal differences and aid in sample identification.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Analytical Chemistry
- Geochemistry
Background:
- Coal and charcoal share physical and chemical similarities, complicating their differentiation.
- Standardized methods for distinguishing coal from charcoal are currently lacking.
- Natural radionuclide content varies between coal and charcoal due to age and origin, offering potential distinguishing markers.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the natural radionuclide content of coal and charcoal samples.
- To identify differences in radionuclide concentrations that can be used to distinguish between coal and charcoal.
- To assess the potential for fallout contamination (e.g., Cesium-137) in charcoal samples.
Main Methods:
- Activity concentrations of Thorium-228 ((228)Th), Radium-226 ((226)Ra), Potassium-40 ((40)K), and Cesium-137 ((137)Cs) were measured.
- Gamma-ray spectrometry was likely employed for radionuclide quantification.
- Comparative analysis of radionuclide profiles in coal versus charcoal samples was performed.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in the activity concentrations of natural radionuclides ((228)Th, (226)Ra, (40)K) were observed between coal and charcoal.
- The presence of Cesium-137 ((137)Cs) was detected, potentially indicating fallout contamination in charcoal.
- Radionuclide profiles provide evidence for distinguishing between coal and charcoal samples.
Conclusions:
- Natural radionuclide analysis offers a viable method for differentiating coal from charcoal.
- Variations in (228)Th, (226)Ra, and (40)K content are key indicators.
- Cesium-137 ((137)Cs) analysis can further aid in identification, particularly concerning potential anthropogenic contamination in charcoal.
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