The Probert Encyclopaedia of Science & Technology

PEAT

Peat is a fibrous organic compound found in bogs that is formed by the partial decomposition of plants in the acid water of the bog. Peat is a compact, dark brown organic material with a high carbon and represents the first stage in the transformation of vegetation into coal. Peat bogs are distributed throughout the world; extensive deposits are found in North America, Russia, the Scandinavian countries, England, and Ireland. Dried peat, often compressed into briquettes, is used in many European countries, particularly Ireland, as a fuel, although it is not as efficient as coal because of its large content of water and ash. Peat and commercial preparations of partly decayed vegetable matter that are also called peat have excellent moisture-retaining qualities and are used as mulching and soil-improving material for plants.
Research Peat