All,
I have been reading with interest the messages regarding the creation of
charcoal during the pre-CE years through the 14th century - green oak and
pine as being the primary (though certainly not exclusive) sources, it's use
in carbon dating, etc.
Does anyone know (or have a guess at) the approximate ratio of green wood to
finished charcoal (i.e. in terms of mass - how many kilograms of wood to
produce one kilogram of charcoal)? What about how much charcoal was
required to keep a small smithy in business (i.e. what could be produced
with a tonne of charcoal - in terms of horseshoes, blades, whatever)?
I know that the question is rather vague, but I am curious as to how much of
an impact a large (or even small) smithy had on the surrounding forest (and
therefore the necessity of forest management). Are we talking a tonne of
wood a month or a week...(obviously a scenario would have to be invented to
put the question in perspective)?
Any wild guesses, estimates, or even examples of (gasp!) well-defended
evidence would be appreciated.
I am trying to understand in as much detail as possible the individual steps
involved in turning a piece of iron ore into a finished piece of
metallurgical art in the days before blast furnaces (aren't we all!). Any
pointers to good resources would also be much appreciated! Thanks!
Matthew
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