How to Make Charcoal From Wood

Perfectly cooked steaks start with lump charcoal.

Controlling fire has helped move civilization along from being hunters and gatherers to being captains of industry. Along the way, though, the fuel that was burned to create and sustain fire has changed very little. Humans have been making charcoal from wood, also known as lump charcoal, for thousands of years. Charcoal is simply a naturally flammable substance (wood, coconut shells, bamboo, etc.) that has been heated, without exposure to air, until all of the combustible oils have been removed. This allows the remaining charcoal to burn steadily for a long time.

Things You'll Need

• Very dry hardwood scraps (oak, hickory or mesquite)
• Clean fill dirt
• Large galvanized washtub
• Newspaper
• Long-handled shovel

Instructions

1. Create a fire ring on bare soil, using clean fill dirt. The fire ring is a safety barrier between the fire and its surroundings, with a circumference just larger than the top of the washtub. The dirt should be mounded to a height of approximately 6 inches. Be certain there is at least a 10-foot clearance from any combustible materials.

2. Build a cone-shaped pile in the center of the circle consisting of 10 to 15 small pieces of hardwood and four or five crumpled-up sheets of newspaper. It is best to use only one variety of hardwood at a time. Ignite the newspaper and allow the wood to fully catch before adding more hardwood pieces to make the pile approximately 12 inches wide and 12 inches tall.

3. Once all of the wood is burning strongly, carefully cover the pile with the overturned wash tub. Use a shovel to push the fill dirt up around the rim of the tub, creating an airtight seal.

4. Test the outside of the tub for heat after two hours have passed. Remove the washtub once it is completely cool to the touch. Spread out the charcoal with the shovel and allow to cool overnight. Then store the charcoal in an cool, dry place.

Tips & Warnings

• Any variety of natural wood can be used to create charcoal. Hardwood charcoal is preferred, however, for cooking.

• Do not use plywood, particleboard or pressure treated lumber to make charcoal. The chemicals used in their production are highly toxic.

References

• BuyActivatedCharcoal: Making Your Own Charcoal
• Velvit Oil: How to Make Charcoal at Home
• Twin Oaks Forge: Making Charcoal