Why is Biomass Briquette known as White Coal

Biomass briquettes are often called “White Coal” because they serve as a clean and renewable alternative to traditional fossil fuels like coal (which is black). Here’s a breakdown of why the term “White Coal” is used:

Clean Energy Source

• Unlike black coal, biomass briquettes produce very little smoke and no harmful gases like sulfur dioxide when burned.
• They have low ash content and are non-polluting, hence considered “white” or clean.

Eco-Friendly and Renewable

• Made from agricultural waste (like sawdust, husk, or stalks), briquettes are sustainable and help in waste management.
• “White” in this sense also symbolizes environmental purity and sustainability.

Alternative to Traditional Coal

• The term “coal” is used because briquettes serve a similar purpose — providing fuel for heating and industrial processes.
• Hence, “white coal” suggests a cleaner version of coal.

Popular Industrial Usage

• White coal is used in industries like boilers, cement, brick kilns, and more, replacing fossil fuels.

Here’s a comparison chart between White Coal (Biomass Briquettes) and Black Coal (Fossil Coal):

Feature	White Coal (Biomass Briquettes)	Black Coal (Fossil Coal)
Source	Renewable (agricultural waste, biomass)	Non-renewable (fossilized organic matter)
Color	Light brown to dark brown	Black
Eco-Friendliness	Eco-friendly, low emissions	High pollution, emits CO₂, SO₂, NOₓ
Ash Content	Low (5–10%)	High (20–40%)
Calorific Value	3,500–5,000 kcal/kg	5,000–6,500+ kcal/kg
Smoke Emission	Very low	High
Carbon Content	Lower	Higher
Cost	Generally cheaper	More expensive
Moisture Content	8–10% (after drying)	5–15% (can vary)
Storage & Handling	Easy, non-toxic	Risk of spontaneous combustion, toxic dust
Combustion Residue	Organic ash (can be used as fertilizer)	Toxic ash (disposal issue)
Availability	Locally available (depends on agro-waste)	Limited to mining areas
Usage	Boilers, kilns, furnaces, home heating	Power plants, metallurgy, heavy industries