US 2006O143976A1 (19) United States (12) Patent Application Publication (10) Pub. No.: US 2006/0143976 A1 Leong (43) Pub. Date: Jul. 6, 2006

(54) FAST LIGHTING BRIQUET Publication Classification (76) Inventor: Kenneth Leong, Fairfax, VA (US) (51) Int. Cl. CIOL 5/00 (2006.01) Correspondence Address: (52) U.S. Cl...... 44/SSO ROBERTS ABOKHAIR & MARDULA SUTE 1 OOO 118OO SUNRISE VALLEY DRIVE (57) ABSTRACT RESTON,9 VA 20191 (US)US Solid fuel briquets, such as a charcoal briquets for cooking, (21) Appl. No.: 11A324,580 which displays an ashover time of less than ten minutes and 9 a cooking time of over 90 minutes over a variety of shapes (22) Filed: Jan. 3, 2006 are provided. The briquet is defined by an ashover phase of less than about 10 minutes, preferably less than about 6 Related U.S. Application Data minutes and a burn phase of greater than about 90 minutes, preferably two hours and above, with respect to any desired (60) Provisional application No. 60/640.853, filed on Jan. briquet shape. The briquet comprises coal, charcoal, , 3, 2005. and oxidizer formulations. US 2006/0143976 A1 Jul. 6, 2006

FAST LIGHTING CHARCOAL BRIOUET provide desired optimal ignition and burning characteristics. Further, such attempts are frequently dependent on the 0001) This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provi user's knowledge of how to pile the briquets before ignition. sional Application No. 60/640,853, filed on Jan. 3, 2005 which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. 0005. It should be noted that very rapid delivery of intense heat does not provide an acceptable combustion BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION response for cooking purposes. Others have recognized that the surface area to volume ratio of the briquet may affect 0002 This invention relates to the field of charcoal ignition and burn characteristics and should be increased to briquets and other solid fuel compositions in briquets or provide rapid ignition and burning. However, Such ratios other geometric configurations, and more particularly to the have not been employed to design a briquet providing composition and use of the briquets to achieve desired optimal desired ignition and burning characteristics. Lay lighting and burn characteristics with respect to intended ered briquets, having an easy lighting outer layer and long uses such as cooking in general and barbecue or outdoor burning inner layer have been disclosed, but can not be grilling or cooking in particular. The most common commercially manufactured without loss of layer integrity. examples of Such fuel compositions are charcoal briquets which include coal and comminuted charcoal of various 0006 For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,762,656 provides for vegetable materials, such as , hulls, pits, and other a solid fuel briquet, such as a charcoal briquet for cooking, agricultural waste material that is mixed with a binder and where the briquet is made by predensifying a coal portion of rolled, pressed or otherwise formed into briquets. However, the briquet into pellets. The pellets are then blended with the present invention has application to other Solid fuel wood charcoal and any other optional ingredients and com compositions, such as comminuted wood or organic mate pacted into briquets. The resulting briquet contains dense rials that are rolled, pressed or extruded into pellets, discs, coal regions, Surrounded by regions of charcoal and any briquets or other shapes. adjunct briquet ingredients. The briquet is defined by an ignition phase of less than about 18 minutes, preferably less 0003 Charcoal briquets presently available are typically than about 15 minutes and a burn phase of greater than about provided in a “pillow” shape which provides for reasonably 35 minutes, preferably 40 minutes and most preferably 45 satisfactory ease of manufacturing by the Supplier and minutes, with respect to any desired briquet shape. handling by the consumer. However, little attention has been paid to their burning characteristics as related to their 0007 Accordingly, it is an object of the present invention material distribution. As is well known, Such briquets are to provide a briquet which provides desired ignition and typically used for cooking on a grill or the like by preparing burn phase characteristics including a maximum ignition a multiplicity of briquets in a mounded configuration, ignit phase of less than about 10 minutes, followed by a sustained ing their surface by Some ignition means such as lighter burn phase of greater than 90 minutes. fluid, electric heaters, etc., and waiting until ignition of a 0008 Another object of the present invention is to pro significant portion of the briquets has progressed until a vide such a briquet with desired ignition and burn phase majority of the exposed surface is ignited and burning has characteristics regardless of geometric shape, size, or other progressed inwardly toward the interior of the briquet. As manufacturing parameters. burning proceeds inwardly from the surface of the briquet, a gray ash is formed thereon. Thus completion of the initial 0009. Another object of the invention is to provide a “ignition phase' of burning is identifiable by the formation briquet having an “ashover time of less than six minutes. of such visual ash on the briquet, and is defined herein as the 0010 Another object of the invention is to provide a time at which there is 60-80% visual ash formation on the briquet having a Sustained burn phase or cook phase of over briquets. This has been referred to by some as “ashover about two hours. time. Thereafter the briquets are typically spread under a grill or the like for cooking, and they continue to burn with 0011. Other objects of the invention will be clear from the an intense heat throughout a “burn phase' or cook time. For Summary and detailed description appearing herein. maximum performance of Such briquets it is desirable that SUMMARY the ignition phase be rapid so that the briquets may be used for cooking without undue delay, and that the burn phase be 0012. The present invention provides a solid fuel briquet extended to provide adequate cooking time for the use for cooking, such as a charcoal briquet, which displays selected ignition and burn characteristics over a variety of intended. It is further desirable to obtain such beneficial shapes and compositions, as well as a method for forming combustion performance in the most efficient manner with Such a briquet. In accordance with one embodiment, the respect to the amount of fuel consumed. present invention provides briquets or other solid fuel com 0004 As can be seen, the desired effects are rapid “ash position for cooking, comprising: coal, charcoal, and oxi over periods with extended cooking times. There have been dizer, wherein the briquet is characterized as having an little developments related to design of solid fuel articles for ashover time of less than ten minutes and a cooking time of desired combustion performance. There has been some work more than ninety minutes. The briquet optionally comprise at ornamental configuration of fuel briquets, as well as coke. The coke provides various properties including geometrical configuration of briquets to enhance ignition or increased cooking time. The briquets have an ashover time burning by enhancing air Supply, such as provision of of less than six minutes. Preferably, the briquets have an external Surface discontinuities such as ribs, flutes, groups, ashover time of less than five minutes. Most preferably, the slots or the like, and internal openings and passages of briquets have a starting time of less than one minute, and various configurations. Such attempts may enhance com ashover time of less than five minutes and a cooking time of mencement of ignition or overall combustion, but do not over two hours. US 2006/0143976 A1 Jul. 6, 2006

0013 In accordance with one embodiment of the present quets, an alcohol based gel ignition aid is provided. When invention, the briquets comprise coal, charcoal and coke the get system is used, the briquets have a starting time of with a combined weight representing from 55 to 85 percent less than one minute, an ashover time of less than five of the total weight of the briquet. The coal represents from minutes and a cooking time of more than two hours. 50 to 75 percent of the combined weight. The coke is present in an amount of 2-5 percent of the combined weight. The 0017. In another embodiment, the present invention pro oxidizer represents at least fifteen percent of at least one vides a briquet or other Solid fuel composition, comprising alkali metal nitrate composition. When reference is made to (a) from 35 to 45 percent by weight coal having a fixed a metal nitrate, this includes composition including Such a carbon of 65 percent or more, (b) from 16 to 20 percent by nitrate or combinations therewith. In a preferred embodi weight charcoal, (c) from 4 to 6 percent by weight by weight ment the oxidizer comprises at least two alkali metal nitrates coke, (d) from 25 to 30 percent by weight barium nitrate, (e) and is present in an amount of twenty percent or higher by from 4 to 6 percent by weight sodium nitrate, and (f) from weight of the total briquet composition. 3 to 5 percent by weight starch. 0014. In accordance with one embodiment, the present DETAILED DESCRIPTION invention provides briquets or other solid fuel composition for cooking, where the briquets comprise coal having a fixed 0018. In this document, use shall be made of the follow carbon of 65 percent or more, charcoal, and coke. The ing terms of art, which have the meanings as indicated briquets further comprise an oxidizer composition compris below. ing at least two different alkali metal nitrates. Such briquets are characterized as having an ashover time of less than ten 0019. The term “Binder” as used herein refers to complex minutes and a cooking time of more than ninety minutes. carbohydrates that possess adhesive qualities to produce or The coal, charcoal and coke have a combined weight rep promote the holding together of loosely aggregated compo resenting from 55 to 85 percent of the total weight of the nents as in a briquet. Examples of binders include starches briquette or briquets. The coal represents from 50 to 75 Such as corn starch. percent of the combined weight, and the coke is present in 0020 “Coal as used herein refers to a solid combustible an amount of 2-5 percent of the combined weight. The substance formed by the partial decomposition of vegetable oxidizer represents at least fifteen percent. In various varia matter without free access of air and under the influence of tions of this embodiment, the oxidizer composition com moisture and often increased pressure and temperature that prises a first alkali metal nitrate which is selected from the is widely used as a natural fuel. It is further understood that group consisting of strontium nitrates, barium nitrates, coal includes Substances such as the foregoing either before higher molecular weight metal nitrates and combinations or after partial burning and/or scorching in an oxygen-poor thereof. By higher molecular weight nitrates, we mean those environment (or charring) Such as might be carried out to alkali (including earth) metals having a higher molecular remove undesirable components, an example of which is weight than strontium. The oxidizer composition further Sulfur. It is therefore understood that designations such as comprises a second alkali metal nitrate selected from the lignite and lignite charcoal, anthracite, semi-anthracite, bitu group consisting of Sodium nitrates, potassium nitrates, men, mineral carbons and mixtures of any of the foregoing, lower molecular weight alkali (including earth) metal as well as any partially burned or scorched portions thereof, nitrates and combinations thereof. By lower molecular may singularly or collectively be referred to herein as coal. weight alkali metal we mean those having a lower molecular weight than calcium. In a preferred embodiment, the first 0021. The term "Ignition Aid' as used herein refers to alkali nitrate is present in greater amounts than the second materials that are useful in the act or process of initiating the alkali metal nitrate. In yet another embodiment, the oxidizer oxidation or combustion of a fiel mixture or mixture of other is present in amounts equal to or greater than twenty percent. objects, such as one or more briquets. Examples of ignition In yet another embodiment, the oxidizer is present in aids that are consistent with the meaning of this term as used amounts equal to or greater than twenty five percent. In yet herein include Sawdust and other particulate cellulosic mat another embodiment, the oxidizer is present in amounts teras well as mixtures thereof, solvents such as aliphatic and equal to or greater than thirty percent. petroleum hydrocarbons and blends thereof, and starter gels Such as burning alcohol gels. 0015. In another embodiment, the present invention teaches abriquette, briquets or other solid fuel compositions, 0022 "Optional adjuncts” as used herein refers to com comprising coal having a fixed carbon of 65 percent or more, ponents which may be desirably included in a briquet charcoal, and coke. The coal, charcoal and coke have a formulation to enhance appearance or aesthetic use qualities combined weight representing from 55 to 90 percent of the thereof. Examples of optional adjuncts include: builders: total weight of the briquette or briquets. The coal represents fillers; density modifiers; ash whiteness enhancers; release from 50 to 75 percent of the combined weight. The coke is agents, etc., as well as combinations of any of the foregoing. present in an amount of 2-5 percent of the combined weight. A typical builder includes limestone, and borax as well as The oxidizer composition is at least ten percent of at least various hydrates of the boron oxides can be used for dual one alkali metal nitrate. The briquet is characterized as purposes as release agents and/or builders. Limestone and having an ashover time of less than ten minutes and a borax decahydrate are preferred optional adjuncts. cooking time of more than ninety minutes. 0023. As used herein, the term “Oxidizer is understood 0016. In another embodiment, the present invention pro to refer to any material or component which can effectively vides briquet or other solid fuel composition system for increase the Supply of oxygen to combustible ingredients of cooking, comprising briquets comprising coal, charcoal, the formulation. Alkali metal nitrates (including alkali earth coke and two alkali metal nitrates. In addition to the bri metals) are examples of preferred oxidizers. Sodium, potas US 2006/0143976 A1 Jul. 6, 2006

sium, barium and strontium nitrates are preferred oxidizers g. It is to be understood that the technique of the present in accordance with various embodiments of the present invention can also be employed to design charcoal briquets invention. with other ignition and performance characteristics, if so 0024. The term “Wood Charcoal' or “Charcoal” as used desired. herein refers to the hard fibrous substance consisting basi 0027. Upon completion of an initial ignition and ashover cally of xylem that makes up the greater part of the stems, phases, briquets are normally spread out upon a planar branches and roots of trees or shrubs beneath the bark and Surface beneath a grill or other cooking Surface or the like. is found to a limited extent in herbaceous plants and which During the Subsequent burn phase, the briquets continue to has been partially burned or scorched or otherwise converted burn with an intense heat for a period of time, during which to carbon to some extent. Wood charcoal or charcoal is a they are employed for purposes such as cooking or the like. comprehensive term and includes retort , kiln char The total amount of time, in minutes, where the briquets are coals, and the like. useful for cooking can be rather arbitrary, as they can vary 0.025 Charcoal briquets and the like are employed by depending upon the Subjective temperature range and/or the leaving a multiplicity of briquets initially mounded into a degree of "doneness' desired for a food item, the nature of pile for better ignition. The combustion of such briquets is the item being cooked, etc. Consequently, it is convenient to resolvable into an initial “ignition’ phase which begins with select a temperature to be used in determining cooking time the commencement of ignition and proceeds until the bri values. In general, the temperature range over which cook quets are ignited over Substantially their entire Surface, and ing with briquets is most commonly associated varies from a “burn’ phase in which combustion continues to proceed about 135 degree Centigrade (C) (275.degree. F.) for rare or from the exterior surface of the briquet to the interior. At this raw cooking to about 250 degree C. (approx. 480 degree F.) time there is a significant rise in the temperature and heat for well-done cooking. Thus, for comparison purposes, the generated by the burning briquets. This transition from the present invention evaluates the cooking time as the time ignition phase to the burning phase can be usually identified above 400 degree F. It should be understood that this value is for comparison of the performance of the various formu by a layer of gray ash which forms on the surface of the lations and not as the actual cooking time that may be briquet after initial burning at the Surface. employed by the ultimate user. 0026. For purposes of illustrating the present invention, the process for cooking with briquets will be divided into 0028. An important aspect of briquet performance is the various phases. The first phase is the starting or ignition time amount of time for which the burn phase configuration or and represents the time when ignition aids such as lighter composition can Sustain a cooking temperature, i.e., the time fluid, petroleum distillates, starting gel etc. are applied to the available for cooking, or “cook time.” A briquet that ignited briquets and then lighted, to the time the bricuets start to readily and gave rise to short ash times, for instance, would burn on their own without any further application of ignition be desirable in that cooking could conveniently commence aids. This definition only refers to the portion of briquets that relatively quickly following ignition. However, if Such a have been given ignition aids, not the briquets that have not briquet was to become consumed too rapidly, it would not be been given ignition aids. The ignition phase is followed by acceptable for providing a fuel source for Sustained cooking. an ashover phase. The end of the ashover phase is defined as Therefore the “cook time' associated with a briquet is the time, in minutes, at which a majority of the Surface of the defined for the purposes herein as the time the briquet briquets display a visual ash. As understood herein, the time generates heat over 400 degree F. According to one preferred required to achieve a certain amount of visual ash cover is embodiment of the present invention, it is desired that CT regarded as the “ashover time'. The amount of ash that has have values comprising a minimum of 90, preferably 120, been found to be a convenient tool for evaluation purposes, and more preferably over 120 minutes. expressed as a percent of total briquet Surface area, is 0029 Briquets are typically predominantly comprised of approximately 60-90% visual ashover, and more preferably two components: wood charcoal, which is relatively easy to 70-80% visual ashover. These values may be written as ignite but combusts rapidly, and coal, which is more difficult 60-90% ashover and 70-80% ashover, respectively. The to ignite and burns more slowly than wood charcoal, but length of time which has been found to be convenient for use which also burns at higher temperatures. Wood charcoal is in evaluating the ash appearance on briquets is approxi produced either in concrete kilns or retort furnaces where mately 5-20 minutes following ignition, and preferably wood is placed and a portion of the wood is burned in an 10-15 minutes following ignition. According to one pre atmosphere that is made deficient in available oxygen by ferred embodiment of the present invention, it is desired that restricting the airflow. The reduced oxygen atmosphere 70% ashover occurs within less than about 10 minutes, and prevents complete combustion of the wood, allowing the preferably less than about 6 minutes. Most preferably, the production of charcoal which has been depleted of the more ashover time or 70-80 percent ashover occurs in less than volatile materials (which cause smoke) but which still five minutes. It is to be understood that size, weight and contain most of the carbon, which provides one of the composition can all influence ignition and burn phase char cooking sources for the briquets. acteristics of briquets. One prior technique for optimizing burn characteristics based on shape configuration has 0030. In accordance with one aspect of the invention, already been described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,496,366 to Peters, wood charcoal is combined with coal, binders and other and is incorporated by reference herein. Thus, for purposes components. The latter comprise ignition aids and/or of providing a convenient and relatively consistent basis for optional adjuncts, which may include Some or all of the comparison, briquets that were evaluated in the course of the following: Sawdust, alkali metal nitrates, fillers, density present invention were approximately pillow-shaped in con modifiers, ash whiteness enhancers and solvents, etc. These figuration, and had an average weight of approximately 40 ingredients are blended together and then mixed in a large US 2006/0143976 A1 Jul. 6, 2006

mixer with a cooked and thickened binder, such as a starch phosphate, less than 4% water (or moisture), and approxi slurry, which acts to hold all of the other materials together. mately 1.5% volatile matter. The higher fixed carbon cokes The mixture is then formed into the desired shape by rolling, result in better burning and improved cook times. The coke extruding, pressing, etc. In a typical rolling process, the is used in Smaller amounts as compared to the coal and mixture is fed into a large roll press in which two large charcoal. rotating shafts having drum cylinders with pockets on them Squeeze the material into briquets of a configuration that is 0033. The coal used in the present invention is preferably determined by the shape of the pockets. These briquets are the type with a high fixed carbon value such as 65% or then dried in large tunnel dryers where they are piled on higher. This provides longer burning time or cook time. The large perforated wire belts and hot air is blown through the coal preferably also has a high gross calorie value or belts and briquets to dry off excess moisture that was added calorific value, preferably 6,000 kcal/kg or higher (kilo in the starch slurry. This step hardens the starch binder so calories per kilogram). The coal used in the last production that the briquets achieve a higher strength to enable them to batch had a gross calorie value of 6,500 kcal/kg or higher. It be handled, packaged and shipped. The briquets are then also preferred to use coal of low sulfur content to minimize packaged in standard bag filling equipment. In accordance emissions and odor. A Sulfur content of less than one percent with a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the is preferred. Anthracite is a preferred coal type and is used briquets are package in a box with a plastic liner to seal any in various embodiments of the present invention because it particles or dust that may have separated from the briquets is cleaner. Bituminous coal is less desirable because it during shipping or handling. The plastic liner also serves to produces more Smoke and other undesirable gaseous emis protect the briquets from exposure to moisture which S1O. adversely affects the performance of the briquets such as 0034. With respect to the charcoal, we have determined starting or ignition and ashover times. that the higher fixed carbon content charcoals perform better 0031. In making briquets in accordance with the present in various embodiments. We have also found that hardwood invention, the following materials are utilized. Various for charcoals performed better than others in various embodi mulations of potassium nitrates, barium nitrates, sodium ments. Wood charcoal can also be substituted by carbon nitrates and strontium nitrates are preferably used as the content derived from saw dust, nut shells, or other plant oxidizers in the briquets. Potassium nitrate seemed to pro based carbon. These preferences are not intended as limita vide too much sparking when used in large quantities and tions and the selection should be made based on the desired this is less desirable from a consumer point of view and not ashover and cook times. from a performance point of view. Strontium nitrates are 0035. The proportions of coal to wood charcoal can be more desirable but are presently the more expensive of the varied to achieve different goals of heat value and starting other nitrates. The nitrates are in either powder or crystal times. Coke is optionally added as an ingredient to improve forms and have purities in the range of 95 percent or higher, cooking time values. We have found that the presence of with purities of 99 percent or higher being preferred. We coke allows for longer cooking time values, such as over two have also found it advantageous to use a combination of at hours. All of the examples showing cooking time of over least two nitrates. This provided improved results in the two hours includes coke with the coal and wood charcoal. In performance of the briquets. Based on the overall weight of various embodiments, the combined weight of coke, coal the briquets, the following combinations are used in various and charcoal in the briquets can vary between 55 to 90 embodiments of the invention (a) strontium nitrates (15 percent by weight. The distribution within this range 35%) plus sodium nitrates (5-10%); (b) strontium nitrates between the products is such that the coal represents 50 to (15-35%) plus potassium nitrates (5-10%); (c) barium 75 percent of the combined weight, the coke represents from nitrates (15-35%) plus sodium nitrates (5-10%); (d) barium 2 to 15 percent of the combined weight and the charcoal nitrates (15-35%) plus potassium nitrates (5-10%); or (e) makes up the remainder. It is preferred that the combined barium nitrates (15-35%) plus sodium nitrates (2.5-5%) plus weight is from 55 to 80 percent and most preferred between potassium nitrates (2.5-5%). Various other combinations are 55 to 75 percent. possible for use in various embodiments of the present invention. In accordance with the desired properties of the 0036) Binders and other material may be used to assist in briquets relative to ashover time and cook time, the amount holding the briquets together. For example, starch is used in of the nitrate oxidizers used was at least 10% by weight of various embodiments of the invention as a binder for the the briquette, preferably at least 20% by weight, and most manufacture of the briquets. While starch is preferred, preferably over 25% by weight. In accordance with various various other known binders can be used. embodiments of the present invention using at least two 0037 Ignition aids can be used to assist in the starting of different nitrates, strontium nitrates and barium nitrates the briquets of the present invention. It was found that the represent the major portion of the oxidizer content while use of gels, such as burning alcohol gels is preferable. These Sodium nitrates and potassium nitrates represent minor por gels provide very discrete and more controlled burning on tions. Preferred nitrates include Sodium nitrate, potassium the briquets. Further, the present invention briquets need a nitrate, barium nitrate and strontium nitrate. minimal amount of these gels to assist in the starting phase. 0032. The coke utilized is known in the art and readily For example, these gels comprise approximately 90% burn available from various sources. It is advantageous to use ing alcohol and approximately 10% coagulant (to turn liquid coke having a higher fixed carbon value. Preferred coke has alcohol to a gel form). In a preferred embodiment, a small a fixed carbon content of at least 65% and most preferred is tube of such a gel starter material is provided in a box coke having a fixed carbon content of 80% or higher. In one containing the briquets of the present invention. For production, the coke had a fixed carbon content of over 80%, example, a bottle of gel of about 25 grams is provided and less than 12% ash, less than 0.6% sulfur, less than 0.04% is recommended for about three uses. The average use of US 2006/0143976 A1 Jul. 6, 2006 briquets is about two to three pounds. Another unique visually noted and the target criteria was a Subjective feature of our charcoal briquet is that, you need only to apply requirement that no excessive Smoke be generated during starting gel to a fraction of the . When that the burn phase. Smoke is observed during the ignition phase. portion of the briquets has been ignited (in less than one The data is reported below for the various batches tested. minute) the fire quickly spreads to the whole pile. A 3-5 Lb The tests were performed using one kilogram samples (2.2 pile of briquets will ashover in less than 5 minutes. pounds) and using the starting gel as an ignition aid.

TABLE I

Evaluation A. B C D A. Construction workmanship

1. Defects Conform to Conform to Conform to Conform to requirements requirements requirements requirements 2. Odor No strong odor No strong odor No strong odor No strong odor B Physical/Chemical Property

1. Percent Moisture 2. Percent Ash 29% 26% 27% 31.5% C. Performance 1. Ease of ignition <1 Min. <1 Min. <1 Min. Appr. 1 Min. 2. Ashover time <3 Min. 3–4 Min. <4 Min. 3–4 Mins. 3. Time above 160 Min. 165 Min. 158 Min. 165 Mins. 400 F. 4. Smoke No excessive No excessive No excessive No excessive Smoke Smoke Smoke Smoke

0038. The above ingredients were utilized to form bri 0040. As can be seen from the data, the briquets made in quets in accordance with various embodiments of the accordance with various embodiments of the present inven present invention. Methods of forming the briquets are tion exhibited improved properties as compared to those known in the art. In one batch of briquets, the following presently available on the market. The moisture content was formulation was used: approximately 40% by weight coal; not greater than 5.0 percent for all batches with most being approximately 18% wood charcoal; approximately 5% coke: below 4 percent. The ignition time was one minute or less approximately 28% barium nitrate; approximately 5% for all batches. Starting or ignition time is the time it takes Sodium nitrate; and about 4% corn starch (including mois to get the briquets to burn on their own without any ignition ture therein). Various other batches were made with similar aids such as alcohol gel or lighter fluid. It is basically after compositions within the scope of the invention. These the lighter fluid, gel or petroleum distillates, in the case of batches were Subjected to quality control tests including match light or similar products, have burnt out and the ashover time and cook time requirements. The testing briquets started to catch fire and burn on their own content. included inspection for workmanship, physical and chemical 0041. The ashover time for all reported samples was less properties, and performance properties. The workmanship than four minutes. The target was less than ten minutes and tests included visual inspection of the briquets to compare to most preferably less than five minutes. This represents a the criteria of no cracks, visible wood, missing chunks, pits significant improvement over the presently available bri nor foreign material in the briquets. The briquets were also quets. The cook time or time over 400 F was in excess of two tested to meet the criteria of no strong odor. For the physical hours and about 2.5 hours or more for the batches shown in and chemical properties testing, ASTMD 1762 was used to Table I. Even having a burn time or cook time of about test for percent moisture and percent ash in the briquets. The ninety minutes to two hours represents a significant ash content was tested on a before and after weight com improvement over what has been reported for similar prod parison. ucts presently available. 0.039 The performance tests included tests for the ease of 0042. It was also determined that the briquets of the ignition, ashover time and cooking time. The target was that present invention hold their form after burning. After burn the briquets should ignite within five minutes if proper ing, the briquets retain their shape to a larger degree than lighting instructions were followed. Ashover tests results expected with minimal deformation or loss as ash. However, were also reported by visual inspection with the time when subjected to force, the burnt or used briquets easily reported for 100% ashover. It should be noted that this lose their form. criteria is more restrictive than those previously used. Nor mally 75 to 80 percent ashover time is considered sufficient 0043. In accordance with one embodiment, the present for comparison purposes. The burn test results were reported invention provides briquets or other solid fuel composition as time over 400 degree F. The target for the burn test was for cooking, comprising: coal, charcoal, and oxidizer, about two hours or more above 400 F. Smoke generation was wherein the briquet is characterized as having an ashover US 2006/0143976 A1 Jul. 6, 2006

time of less than ten minutes and a cooking time of more The oxidizer composition is at least ten percent of at least than ninety minutes. The briquet optionally comprise coke. one alkali metal nitrate. The briquet is characterized as The coke provides various properties including increased having an ashover time of less than ten minutes and a cooking time. The briquets have an ashover time of less than cooking time of more than ninety minutes. six minutes. Preferably, the briquets have an ashover time of 0047. In another embodiment, the present invention pro less than five minutes. Most preferably, the briquets have a vides briquet or other solid fuel composition system for starting time of less than one minute, and ashover time of cooking, comprising briquets comprising coal, charcoal, less than five minutes and a cooking time of over two hours. coke and two alkali metal nitrates. In addition to the bri 0044) In accordance with one embodiment of the present quets, an alcohol based gel ignition aid is provided. When invention, the briquets comprise coal, charcoal and coke the get system is used, the briquets have an ignition time of with a combined weight representing from 55 to 85 percent less than one minute, an ashover time of less than five of the total weight of the briquet. The coal represents from minutes and a cooking time of more than two hours. 50 to 75 percent of the combined weight. The coke is present in an amount of 2-5 percent of the combined weight. The 0048. In another embodiment, the present invention pro oxidizer represents at least fifteen percent of at least one vides a briquet or other Solid fuel composition, comprising alkali metal nitrate composition. When reference is made to (a) from 35 to 45 percent by weight coal having a fixed a metal nitrate, this includes composition including Such a carbon of 65 percent or more, (b) from 16 to 20 percent by nitrate or combinations therewith. In a preferred embodi weight charcoal, (c) from 4 to 6 percent by weight by weight ment the oxidizer comprises at least two alkali metal nitrates coke, (d) from 25 to 30 percent by weight barium nitrate, (e) and is present in an amount of twenty percent or higher by from 4 to 6 percent by weight sodium nitrate, and (f) from weight of the total briquet composition. 3 to 5 percent by weight starch. 0045. In accordance with one embodiment, the present 0049. Although the present invention has been described invention provides briquets or other solid fuel composition in terms of specific embodiments, various Substitutions of for cooking, where the briquets comprise coal having a fixed materials and conditions can be made as will be known to carbon of 65 percent or more, charcoal, and coke. The those skilled in the art. For example, the other material could briquets further comprise an oxidizer composition compris be substituted for the starch in order to provide adhesion or ing at least two different alkali metal nitrates. Such briquets structure strength for the briquets. Other variations will be are characterized as having an ashover time of less than ten apparent to those skilled in the art and are meant to be minutes and a cooking time of more than ninety minutes. included herein. The scope of the invention is only to be The coal, charcoal and coke have a combined weight rep limited by the following claims: resenting from 55 to 85 percent of the total weight of the briquette or briquets. The coal represents from 50 to 75 What is claimed is: percent of the combined weight, and the coke is present in 1. A briquet or other solid fuel composition for cooking, an amount of 2-5 percent of the combined weight. The comprising: coal, charcoal, and oxidizer, wherein the briquet oxidizer represents at least fifteen percent. In various varia is characterized as having an ashover time of less than ten tions of this embodiment, the oxidizer composition com minutes and a cooking time of more than ninety minutes. prises a first alkali metal nitrate which is selected from the 2. The briquet of claim 1 further comprising coke. group consisting of strontium nitrates, barium nitrates, 3. The briquet of claim 1 having an ashover time of less higher molecular weight metal nitrates and combinations than six minutes. thereof. By higher molecular weight nitrates, we mean those 4. The briquet of claim 1 having an ashover time of less alkali (including earth) metals having a higher molecular than five minutes. weight than strontium. The oxidizer composition further 5. The briquet of claim 2 having a cooking time of over comprises a second alkali metal nitrate selected from the two hours. group consisting of Sodium nitrates, potassium nitrates, 6. The briquet of claim 2 having an ashover time of less lower molecular weight alkali (including earth) metal than five minutes and a cooking time of over two hours. nitrates and combinations thereof. By lower molecular 7. The briquet of claim 2 wherein the coal, charcoal and weight alkali metal we mean those having a lower molecular coke have a combined weight representing from 55 to 85 weight than calcium. In a preferred embodiment, the first percent of the total weight of the briguet; and where the coal alkali nitrate is present in greater amounts than the second represents from 50 to 75 percent of the combined weight; alkali metal nitrate. In yet another embodiment, the oxidizer and the coke is present in an amount of 2-5 percent of the is present in amounts equal to or greater than twenty percent. combined weight; and wherein the oxidizer represents at In yet another embodiment, the oxidizer is present in least fifteen percent of at least one alkali metal nitrate. amounts equal to or greater than twenty five percent. In yet 8. The briquet of claim 1 wherein the oxidizer comprises another embodiment, the oxidizer is present in amounts at least two alkali metal nitrates and is present in an amount equal to or greater than thirty percent. of twenty percent or higher by weight of the total briquet 0046. In another embodiment, the present invention composition. teaches abriquette, briquets or other solid fuel compositions, 9. A briquet or other solid fuel composition for cooking, comprising coal having a fixed carbon of 65 percent or more, comprising: charcoal, and coke. The coal, charcoal and coke have a combined weight representing from 55 to 90 percent of the coal having a fixed carbon of 65 percent or more; char total weight of the briquette or briquets. The coal represents coal; coke; and from 50 to 75 percent of the combined weight. The coke is oxidizer comprising at least two different alkali metal present in an amount of 2-5 percent of the combined weight. nitrates; US 2006/0143976 A1 Jul. 6, 2006

wherein the briquet is characterized as having an ashover weight; and the coke is present in an amount of 2-5 time of less than ten minutes and a cooking time of percent of the combined weight; and more than ninety minutes. 10. The briquet of claim 9 wherein the coal, charcoal and at least ten percent of at least one alkali metal nitrate, coke have a combined weight representing from 55 to 85 wherein the briquet is characterized as having an ashover percent of the total weight of the briquet; and where the coal time of less than ten minutes and a cooking time of represents from 50 to 75 percent of the combined weight; more than ninety minutes. and the coke is present in an amount of 2-5 percent of the 16. A briduet or other solid fuel composition system for combined weight; and wherein the oxidizer represents at cooking, comprising: least fifteen percent. 11. The briquet of claim 9 wherein a first alkali metal briquets comprising coal, charcoal, coke and two alkali nitrate is selected from the group consisting of strontium and metal nitrates; and barium nitrates and combinations thereof, and wherein a an alcohol based gel ignition aid; second alkali metal nitrate is selected from the group con sisting of sodium and potassium nitrates and combinations wherein the system is characterized as having a starting thereof. time of less than one minute, an ashover time of less 12. The briquet of claim 9 wherein the first alkali nitrate than five minutes and a cooking time of more than two is present in greater amounts than the second alkali metal hours. nitrate. 17. Abriquet or other Solid fuel composition, comprising: 13. The briquette of claim 9 wherein the oxidizer is from 35 to 45 percent by weight coal having a fixed present in amounts equal to or greater than twenty percent. carbon of 65 percent or more, 14. The briquette of claim 9 wherein the oxidizer is present in amounts equal to or greater than twenty five from 16 to 20 percent by weight charcoal, percent. from 4 to 6 percent by weight by weight coke, 15. Abriquet or other Solid fuel composition, comprising: from 25 to 30 percent by weight barium nitrate, coal having a fixed carbon of 65 percent or more, char coal, and coke, wherein the coal, charcoal and coke from 4 to 6 percent by weight sodium nitrate, and have a combined weight representing from 55 to 90 from 3 to 5 percent by weight starch. percent of the total weight of the briquet; and where the coal represents from 50 to 75 percent of the combined k k k k k