A peat brick is essentially a form of fuel.
Peat bricks are a traditional type of fuel derived from peat, which is an accumulation of partially decayed vegetation or organic matter that forms in wetlands, bogs, and peatlands. As the reference states, peat bricks are fuel and can be harvested from peat blocks found in the soil.
Understanding Peat as Fuel
Peat itself, when dried, is combustible and has been used for centuries as a source of energy, particularly in areas where other fuels like wood or coal were scarce. The process of making peat bricks typically involves:
- Harvesting: Extracting peat from the bog in blocks or sods.
- Shaping: Often, these sods are cut or shaped into brick-like forms for easier handling and drying.
- Drying: The peat bricks are left to air dry, which is crucial to reduce moisture content and make them suitable for burning.
Why Use Peat Bricks?
- Historical Availability: In regions with extensive peatlands (like Ireland, Scotland, Finland, Russia, etc.), peat was a readily available local resource.
- Heat Output: Dried peat can provide significant heat, making it a viable option for heating homes and cooking.
While less common now in many parts of the world compared to modern fuels, peat bricks remain a historical and sometimes current fuel source in specific regions. They represent one of the earliest forms of solid biomass fuel used by humans.
