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Corncob Charcoal

Preparing the Kiln

A 55-gallon oil drum can be used as a kiln to make charcoal. In order to allow air to ow through the drum, cut
several small holes in the bottom [1]. In the other end, cut a large square opening for lling the kiln with cobs
[2]. You will also need a lid or a piece of sheet metal to cover the hole on the top [3].

Filling the Drum

Place a thin layer (about 5 cm) of corn husks in the bottom of the oil drum, holding a big stick in the center of
the drum [1]. Add a thicker layer (about 25 cm) of corn cobs [2]. Alternate layers until the drum is full then
carefully remove the stick, leaving a hole that goes to the bottom of the drum [3].

For more information e.mail charcoal@mit.edu or visit our website at: web.mit.edu/d-lab/charcoal

Lighting the Fire

Before starting the burn, place the drum on top of three stones, so that air can ow in through the holes in the bottom. Light the drum at the bottom of the hole that was formed by removing the stick [1 & 2]. After 10 minutes, ignite
the smoke to make the re burn more cleanly [3 & 4]. Let the re burn for another 10 minutes before covering.

Sealing the Drum

Cover the drum with the metal lid [1]. Wait about 2 minutes, then carefully remove the stones from under the drum,
supporting the drum with a stick while moving the stones [2]. Seal the bottom edges and the top with sand [3 & 4].

Removing the Charcoal

After 2 hours, brush the sand off of the top of the drum and remove the lid [1]. The cobs inside should be carbonized
and ready to use [2, 3 & 4]. If they are not fully carbonized, next time, let the re burn longer before covering.