Determination of volatile organic compounds in emissions by coal-fired power stations from Spain

This study concerns the emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) by coal fired power stations. The main compounds are monoaromatic hydrocarbons and aliphatic hydrocarbons, chlorinated compounds have less importance. The influence of combustion parameters can not be clearly established. Emissions factors were calculated and they are smaller than those of other anthropogenic combustions. A comparative study of two sources of VOCs, power stations and motor vehicles, indicates that the environmental impact of the latter are most important.