What is the main factor that determines ash production during combustion?

The amount of ash produced during combustion is primarily influenced by the type of fuel being burned. Different fuels contain varying levels of mineral content and inorganic materials that contribute to ash formation upon combustion. For example, coal typically produces more ash due to its higher mineral content compared to cleaner-burning fuels like natural gas or propane, which contain very little or no ash-forming materials.

The characteristics of the fuel—such as its composition, moisture content, and the presence of impurities—are all crucial in determining the resulting ash. While factors such as storage duration, preparation methods, and combustion techniques can have some impact on the overall efficiency and completeness of combustion, they do not directly dictate the inherent ash production capability of the fuel itself. Therefore, understanding the type of fuel is essential for predicting ash output during the combustion process, reinforcing the significance of fuel selection in combustion applications.