Does adding oil on wood increase its calorific value?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers on whether adding oil to wood increases its calorific value and how such additives affect the burning rate of wood. Participants explore the relationship between the burning speed of wood and its calorific value, considering both theoretical and practical implications.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that adding oil or similar substances makes wood burn faster, prompting questions about the relationship between burning speed and calorific value.
  • Another participant argues that the energy contribution from the oil does not increase the calorific value of the wood itself, but rather facilitates a quicker release of gases from the wood during combustion.
  • Some participants seek clarification on the mechanism by which oil influences gas release during the burning process.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether the addition of oil increases the calorific value of wood, with some asserting it does not while others focus on the implications of faster burning. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the exact relationship between burning speed and calorific value.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully explored the underlying assumptions about calorific value and the combustion process, leaving some aspects of the discussion open to interpretation.

ashishvinayak
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In normal conditions, it takes a long time for wood to burn. But if you add some oil (or something similar like butter) it tends to burn faster. So, does adding such additives increase the calorific value? What makes the wood burn faster? Is the "faster" burning of wood and calorific value related in any way?
 
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It won't add any more energy than what is in the oil. If it burns faster it is because there is extra energy from the oil that forces the gases out of the wood more quickly than without the oil.
 
how does oil force out gases?:confused:
 
ashishvinayak said:
how does oil force out gases?:confused:

He's saying that the heat from the burning oil will force gases out.
 

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