Investigation of the organic carbon ratio analysis on particles from biomass combustion and its evolution in three generations of firewood stoves

Abstract In this study, the emissions of three different generations of firewood stoves were characterized to test their sustainability with this new problematic. Organic Carbon (OC) and Elemental Carbon (EC) emissions were particularly targeted. After an investigation of the OC/EC measurement method, a specific protocol was developed, validated and optimized in order to measure OC/EC from direct samplings in the flue gas, without diluting or cooling systems. Carbon monoxide (CO), Total Suspended Particles (TSP) and Total Hydrocarbon (THC) emissions were followed too. To go further in the characterization and in the differentiation of the particles emitted from each kind of stoves, a Field Emission Gun Scanning Electron Microscope (FEG SEM) was used. The medium generation emitted 40% less mass of OC than the previous one. Concerning the new generation, emissions were reduced in mass about 98% for the EC and 40% for the OC compared to the old generation.