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Characterization, Quantification and Compound-specific Isotopic Analysis of Pyrogenic Carbon Using Benzene Polycarboxylic Acids (BPCA)
Published on: May 16, 2016
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in dust emitted from stoker - fired boilers
1The Silesian University of Technology, Faculty of Energy and Environmental Engineering, Department of Air Protection, 2 Akademicka St., 44-101 Gliwice, Poland.
Environmental Technology
|September 21, 2007
Summary
Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) in dust from coal boilers were analyzed. Most hazardous PAHs were found in fine PM1 dust, with higher emissions than other boiler types.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Analytical Chemistry
- Combustion Engineering
Background:
- Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) are a group of organic compounds, many of which are known carcinogens.
- Hard coal-fired boilers are a significant source of particulate matter emissions.
- Understanding PAH distribution in dust is crucial for assessing environmental and health risks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and distribution of PAHs in dust fractions from mechanic stoker boilers.
- To quantify emission factors for benzo(a)pyrene (B(a)P) and its toxic equivalent (TE B(a)P).
- To compare PAH emissions from stoker boilers with those from pulverised fuel boilers.
Main Methods:
- Sampling of exhaust gases using a Mark III dust sampler.
- Extraction and analysis of dust fractions using Gas Chromatography (GC).
- Determination of 16 specific PAHs, total PAHs, and B(a)P equivalent concentrations.
Main Results:
- PAHs were quantified in various granulometric dust fractions.
- The majority (73%) of hazardous PAHs were found in fine PM1 dust particles.
- Emission factors for B(a)P and TE B(a)P were significantly higher compared to pulverised fuel-fired boilers.
Conclusions:
- Mechanic stoker boilers emit substantial amounts of PAHs, particularly in fine particulate matter.
- The high concentration of hazardous PAHs in PM1 poses a significant health risk.
- Stoker boilers represent a greater source of PAH emissions than pulverised fuel boilers, necessitating targeted emission control strategies.
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