Coal

"Mining this shit is so tiring. I don't understand why we can't get junkers to do this crap. You know what I wanted to be? A baker. But nooooo. Daddy said I had to go to the mines like his dad, and his dad's dad."
~ Disgruntled Miner

Properties

Material Characteristics

Unprocessed coal looks like a black rock, but when touched it feels more pliable than any stone. When manipulated the coal leaves black residue on anything it comes into contact with.

Geology & Geography

Coal is found under the surface of Aedran in seams. The most common place to find coal deposits is anywhere between 50 to 200 feet below the surface. Coal discovered in the Underdark is more potent and in larger quantities but is considered to costly to attempt mining.

History & Usage

Everyday use

Coal is mainly used as a fuel source for machinery, forges, and transportation. Coal is also utilized as a component in foundry sand.

Industrial Use

Coal is finely ground to craft foundry sand allowing for molds to be utilized without the molten metal penetrating the spaces in between the sand particles.

Byproducts & Sideproducts

When coal burns it produces a massive amount of carbon dioxide which releases as a smoke.

Hazards

Coal dust can irritate the bronchi in the lungs resulting in chronic respiratory disease or even an acute condition called Black Lung.

Environmental Impact

Chronic release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere can cause acid rain, increase in global temperature, and smog.

Reusability & Recycling

Coal cannot be reused, recycled, or reproduced.

Distribution

Trade & Market

Prospectors sell coal to guilds, governments, and craftsman. The general population is unlikely to need coal in their day to day life but utilize it as a source of heat in an emergency.

Storage

Coal should be stored in a closed container in a cool dry environment. If exposed to prolonged moisture it can reduce the effectiveness of the burning process.

Type

Stone

Color

Black or Brownish-Black

Common State

Soid