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People spend most of their time indoors, particularly in their houses where daily activities are carried out, enhancing particulate matter (PM) emissions with consequent adverse health impacts. This study intended to appraise the toxicological and mutagenic responses of particulate matter with a diameter less than 10 μm (PM10) released from cooking and ironing activities under different conditions. The cytotoxicity of the PM10 total organic extracts was tested in A549 cells using the WST-8 and the lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assays, while the interference in cell cycle dynamics and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was analysed by flow cytometry. The S. typhimurium TA98 and TA100 Ames tester strains with and without metabolic activation were employed to determine the mutagenic potential of the PM10-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). PM10 organic extracts decreased the metabolic activity of A549 cells; however, no effects in the LDH release were observed. An increase in ROS levels was registered only for cells treated with PM10 at IC20 from steam ironing, in low ventilation conditions, while cell cycle dynamics was only affected by exposure to PM10 at IC20 from frying horse mackerel and grilling boneless pork strips. No mutagenic effects were observed for all the PM10-bound PAHs samples.

Burning vegetative debris is a worldwide long-standing practice. The current study was designed to examine the cytotoxicity and mutagenicity of particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter below 10 µm (PM10) released from the burning of pruning residues common in Portugal and other countries of the Mediterranean region. Field measurements were conducted to collect PM10 samples from open burning of vines, olive, willow and acacia pruning branches. To assess the cytotoxicity of the PM10 total organic extract, the A549 cell line, representative of the alveolar type II pneumocytes of the human lung, was used. The cytotoxicity was checked using two complementary methods: water-soluble tetrazolium (WST-8) test to evaluate the cell metabolic activity and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) activity assay to assess the loss of cell membrane integrity. The mutagenicity of the PM10-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) was screened through the Ames test. PM10 organic extracts induced LDH release in a dose-dependent manner. Regarding the cellular metabolic activity, dose-dependency was lacking for the majority of the samples. Combined WST-8 and LDH data indicate that PM10 exposure induce a necrotic cell death pathway in which the cell membrane integrity is lost. Direct and indirect mutagenicity towards the TA98 Salmonella strain has been recorded for the PAH extracts of PM10 collected from combustion of vine and willow branches during the ignition/flaming combustion stage. Significant correlations were found between the cytotoxic responses (WST-8 and LDH) and the PM10 organic component.

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between fuel certification and gaseous and PM10 emissions and their composition. Two pellets labelled as ENplus A1 (certified pellets R and P) and a non-certified brand of pellets were tested in a pellet stove. The impact of operating conditions on emissions was also evaluated. The highest carbon monoxide (CO, 2.7–6.1-fold) and total organic carbon (TOC, 1.9–11-fold) emissions were observed for certified pellets R. Nitrogen oxide (NO) emissions were higher for non-certified pellets (2.5–3.2-fold). The compliance of gaseous emissions with the Ecodesign thresholds was not ensured by certification. Certified pellets P generated significantly lower PM10 emissions than the other two types of pellets at medium and nominal loads. Water-soluble ions represented from 36 to 68 %wt. of the PM10 mass. The combustion of certified pellets P and non-certified pellets generated total carbon PM10 mass fractions ranging from 23 to 50 %wt., whereas pellets R resulted in lower mass fractions (7–14 %wt. PM10). The chromatographically resolved organic compounds were dominated by anhydrosugars and alkanols. Pyrene and retene were the most abundant among polyaromatic hydrocarbons.

From a sampling campaign from December 2018 to June 2019, at a traffic and an urban background site in Coimbra, Portugal, two particulate matter (PM10) samples from each month were selected to characterise the morphology by scanning electron microscopy, to determine the organic and inorganic chemical composition by multiple analytical techniques and to assess the ecotoxicity by the Vibrio fischeri bioluminescence inhibition assay. PM10 concentrations in winter were approximately twice as high as those recorded in the spring. Biomass burning was the greatest contributor to air pollution in winter at both sites. The contribution of vehicle emissions to the PM10 at the roadside was, on average, 7 times higher than at the background location. Distinct particle morphologies were observed. Higher abundances of aggregates enriched in Fe, Ti, Ba, Cr, Co, Cu, Zr, Mn and soot particles were registered in samples from the roadside. Bivariate plots suggested common sources of PAHs, mostly traffic and biomass burning, across the city. Benzo[a]pyrene equivalent concentrations were within the values documented for other European cities. Cancer risks resulting from exposure to PAHs by inhalation were estimated to be low (10−6 ≤ to

Particulate matter emissions (PM10) from the combustion, in a residential stove, of two commercial brands of certified (ENplus A1) pellets, a non-certified brand and laboratory made pellets of acacia were tested for their ability to induce ecotoxic, cytotoxic, and mutagenic responses in unicellular organisms and a human cell line. Ecotoxicity was evaluated through the Vibrio fischeri bioluminescence inhibition assay. Moreover, cytotoxicity was assessed at two time points (24- and 48-hr) through two complementary techniques in order to evaluate the cellular metabolic activity and membrane integrity of human lung epithelial cells A549. The Ames test using two Salmonella typhimurium strains (TA100 and TA98) was employed to assess the mutagenic potential of the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon fraction extracted from the PM10 samples. Results obtained with the bioluminescent bacteria indicated that only particles from the combustion of acacia pellets were toxic. All samples induced impairment on the A549 cells metabolic activity, while no significant release of lactate dehydrogenase was recorded. PM10 emissions from acacia pellets were the most cytotoxic, while samples from both certified pellets evoked significant cytotoxicity at lower doses. Cytotoxicity time-dependency was only observed for PM10 from the combustion of acacia pellets and one of the brands of certified pellets. Mutagenic activity was not detected in both S. typhimurium strains. This study emphasises the role of the raw material for pellet manufacturing on the toxicological profile of PM emissions. Alternative raw materials should be deeply investigated before their use in pelletisation and combustion in residential appliances.

Open-air burning of wastes from tree pruning is a common practice in many regions worldwide. However, this practice degrades air quality and contributes to the greenhouse effect. Aiming at characterizing particle (PM10) and gaseous emissions, the smoke from the open burning of vine, olive, willow and acacia branches was sampled and then analyzed by multiple techniques. Emission factors of gaseous compounds were as follows (g kg−1 biofuel, dry basis): 1564–1663 CO2, 40.6–87.7 CO, 2.06–5.82 CH4, 0.91–3.73 ethane

Currently, different types of raw materials are under investigation to fulfil the demand for pellet-based renewable energy. The aim of this study was to experimentally quantify and characterise the gaseous and particulate matter (PM10) emissions from the combustion of a pelletised invasive species growing in the Portuguese coastal areas. The combustion of acacia pellets in a stove used for domestic heating led to a noticeable production of environmentally relevant contaminants, such as carbon monoxide (CO, 2468 ± 485 mg MJ−1), sulphur dioxide (SO2, 222 ± 115 mg MJ−1) and nitrogen oxides (NOx, 478 ± 87 mg MJ−1). Besides gaseous pollutant emissions, substantial particle emissions (118 ± 14 mg MJ−1) were also generated. Particles consisted mostly of inorganic matter, mainly alkaline metals, sulphur and chlorine. About 25%wt. of the PM10 emitted had carbonaceous nature. The chromatographically resolved organic compounds were dominated by anhydrosugars, especially levoglucosan (284 μg g−1 PM10), and several types of phenolic compounds. Retene (8.77 μg g−1 PM10) was the chief compound among polyaromatic hydrocarbons.

Domestic chores are an important part of the household's daily routine and can contribute significantly to personal exposure. In this study, the particulate mass and number concentrations were assessed when using two irons (steam iron and steam iron with boiler) under distinct conditions (minimum ventilation and indoor doors open) and in the background air. The detailed PM10 chemical characterisation included organic and elemental carbon, elements and organic speciation. Particle number emission rates ranged from 8.1 ± 0.09 × 1011 to 15 ± 3.5 × 1011 particles min−1. Ratios of peak to background levels indicate that ironing can elevate the ultrafine particle number concentrations by a factor ranging from 35 to 194. PM10 emission rates from steam iron, under minimum ventilation conditions (6.6 ± 1.4 μg s−1), were higher than those from steam iron with the doors open (1.9 ± 1.6 μg s−1). The highest particle number and mass emission rates were recorded when the steam iron with boiler was used. Regarding the chemical composition of particles, elemental carbon and strontium were only detected during ironing. Bromide concentrations increased noticeably over background levels (9–51 times) during ironing. PM10 samples encompassed a wide range of organic compounds, part of which can be attributed to the handling of textiles and the use of detergents, fabric softeners, cosmetics and personal care products. Substances emitted by volatilisation or shedding of textile fibres, or due to handling, can contribute to human exposure through inhalation. The cancer risks associated with inhalation of metals and PAH were found to be negligible.

Sampling campaigns indoors have shown that occupants exposed to contaminated air generally exhibit diverse health outcomes. This study intends to assess the deposition rates of total settleable dust and bioburden in the indoor air of dwellings onto quartz fiber filters and electrostatic dust collectors (EDCs), respectively. EDC extracts were inoculated onto malt extract agar (MEA) and dichloran glycerol (DG18) agar-based media used for fungal contamination characterization, while tryptic soy agar (TSA) was applied for total bacteria assessment, and violet red bile agar (VRBA) for Gram-negative bacteria. Azole-resistance screening and molecular detection by qPCR was also performed. Dust loading rates ranged from 0.111 to 3.52, averaging 0.675 μg cm−2 day−1. Bacterial counts ranged from undetectable to 16.3 colony-forming units (CFU) m−2 day−1 and to 2.95 CFU m−2 day−1 in TSA and VRBA, respectively. Fungal contamination ranged from 1.97 to 35.4 CFU m−2 day−1 in MEA, and from undetectable to 48.8 CFU m−2 day−1 in DG18. Penicillium sp. presented the highest prevalence in MEA media (36.2%) and Cladosporium sp. in DG18 (39.2%). It was possible to observe: (a) settleable dust loadings and fungal contamination higher in dwellings with pets, (b) fungal species considered indicators of harmful fungal contamination, (c) Aspergillus section Candidi identified in supplemented media with voriconazole and posaconazole, (d) specific housing typologies and (e) specific housing characteristics influencing the microbial contamination.

Particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter10 μm (PM

Summarization: Residential settings are of utmost importance for human exposure, as it is where people spend most of their time. Residential wood combustion is a widespread practice known as a source of indoor particulate matter (PM). Nevertheless, research on the risks of exposure associated with this source is scarce, and a better understanding of respiratory deposition of smoke particles is needed. The dosimetry model ExDoM2 was applied to determine the deposited dose of inhalable particulate matter (PM10) from residential biomass combustion in the human respiratory tract (HRT) of adults and children. The dose was estimated using PM10 exposure concentrations obtained from a field campaign carried out in two households during the operation of an open fireplace and a woodstove. Simultaneously, PM10 levels were monitored outside to investigate the outdoor dose in a rural area strongly impacted by biomass burning emissions. Indoors, the 8-h average PM10 concentrations ranged from 88.3 to 489 μg m−3 and from 69.4 to 122 μg m−3 for the operation of the fireplace and the woodstove, respectively, while outdoor average PM10 concentrations ranged from 17.3 to 94.2 μg m−3. The highest amount of the deposited particles was recorded in the extrathoracic region (68–79%), whereas the deposition was much lower in the tracheobronchial tree (5–6%) and alveolar–interstitial region (16–21%). The total dose received while using the fireplace was more than twofold the one received in the room with a woodstove and more than 10 times higher than in the absence of the source. Overall, indoor doses were higher than the ones received by a subject exposed outdoors, especially at the alveolar–interstitial region. After 24 h of exposure, it was estimated that approximately 35 to 37% of the particles deposited in the HRT were transferred to the gastrointestinal tract, while approximately 2.0–2.5% were absorbed into the blood. The results from exposure and dose of indoor particles gathered in this work suggest that homeowners should be encouraged to upgrade the wood burning technology to reduce the PM levels inside their residences. This study also provides biologically relevant results on the lung deposition of particles from residential biomass burning that can be used as a reference for future research. Presented on: Environmental Science and Pollution Research

Monitoring campaigns in several buildings have shown that occupants exposed to contaminated indoor air generally exhibit diverse health symptoms. This study intends to assess settleable dust loading rates and bioburden in Portuguese dwellings by passive sampling onto quartz fiber filters and electrostatic dust cloths (EDCs), respectively. Settled dust collected by EDCs was analyzed by culture-based methods (including azole-resistance screening) and qPCR, targeting four different toxigenic Aspergillus sections (Flavi, Fumigati, Circumdati, and Nidulantes). Dust loading rates and bioburden showed higher variability in the summer season. In both seasons, Penicillium sp. was the one with the highest prevalence (59.1% winter, 58.1% summer), followed by Aspergillus sp. in winter (13.0%). Fungal contamination increased in the winter period, while bacterial counts decreased. Aspergillus sections Circumdati and Nidulantes, detected in voriconazole supplemented media, and Aspergillus sections Fumigati and Nidulantes, detected by molecular tools, were found in the winter samples. This study reinforces the importance of applying: (a) Passive sampling methods in campaigns in dwellings, (b) two different culture media (MEA and DG18) to assess fungi, (c) in parallel, molecular tools targeting the most suitable indicators of fungal contamination, and (d) azole resistance screening to unveil azole resistance detection in fungal species.

Road dust resuspension, especially the particulate matter fraction below 10 &micro, m (PM10), is one of the main air quality management challenges in Europe. Road dust samples were collected from representative streets (suburban and urban) of the city of Viana do Castelo, Portugal. PM10 emission factors (mg veh&ndash, 1 km&ndash, 1) ranging from 49 (asphalt) to 330 (cobble stone) were estimated by means of the United Stated Environmental Protection Agency method. Two road dust fractions (&lt, 0.074 mm and from 0.0074 to 1 mm) were characterised for their geochemical, mineralogical and morphological properties. In urban streets, road dusts reveal the contribution from traffic emissions, with higher concentrations of, for example, Cu, Zn and Pb. In the suburban area, agriculture practices likely contributed to As concentrations of 180 mg kg&ndash, 1 in the finest road dust fraction. Samples are primarily composed of quartz, but also of muscovite, albite, kaolinite, microcline, Fe-enstatite, graphite and amorphous content. Particle morphology clearly shows the link with natural and traffic related materials, with well-formed minerals and irregular aggregates. The hazard quotient suggests a probability to induce non-carcinogenic adverse health effects in children by ingestion of Zr. Arsenic in the suburban street represents a human health risk of 1.58 &times, 10&ndash, 4.

Road dust resuspension has a significant contribution to the atmospheric particulate matter levels in urban areas, but loadings, emission factors, and chemical source profiles vary geographically, hampering the accuracy of emission inventories and source contribution estimates. Given the dearth of studies on the variability of road dust, in the present study, an in-situ resuspension chamber was used to collect PM samples from seven representative streets in Viana do Castelo, the northernmost coastal city in Portugal. PM samples were analysed for organic and elemental carbon by a thermo-optical technique, elemental composition by ICP-MS and ICP-AES, and organic constituents by GC–MS. Emission factors were estimated to be, on average, 340 and 41.2 mg veh km for cobbled and asphalt pavements, respectively. Organic carbon accounted for 5.56 ± 1.24% of the PM mass. Very low concentrations of PAHs and their alkylated congeners were detected, denoting a slight predominance of petrogenic compounds. Si, Al, Fe, Ca and K were the most abundant elements. The calculation of various geochemical indices (enrichment factor, geoaccumulation index, pollution index and potential ecological risk) showed that road dust was extremely enriched and contaminated by elements from tyre and brake wear (e.g. Sb, Sn, Cu, Bi and Zn), while lithophile elements showed no enrichment. For As, the geochemical and pollution indices reached their maximum in the street most influenced by agricultural activities. Sb, Cd, Cu and As can pose a very high ecological risk. Sb can be regarded as the pollutant of highest concern, since it represented 57% of the total ecological risk. Hazard indices higher than 1 for some anthropogenic elements indicate that non-carcinogenic effects may occur. Except for a street with more severe braking, the total carcinogenic risks can be considered insignificant., This work was financially supported by the project “Chemical and toxicological SOurce PROfiling of particulate matter in urban air (SOPRO)”, POCI-01-0145-FEDER-029574, funded by FEDER, through Compete2020 - Programa Operacional Competitividade e Internacionalização (POCI), and by national funds (OE), through FCT/MCTES. An acknowledgement is also given to the Portuguese Foundation of Science and Technology (FCT) and to the POHP/FSE funding programme for the fellowship SFRH/BD/117993/2016. Ana Vicente is subsidised by national funds (OE), through FCT, I.P., in the scope of the framework contract foreseen in the numbers 4, 5 and 6 of Article 23, of the Decree-Law 57/2016, of August 29, changed by Law 57/2017, of July 19. Moreover, thanks are due for the financial support to CESAM (UIDB/50017/2020+UIDP/50017/2020), to FCT/MCTES through national funds, and co-funding by FEDER, within the PT2020 Partnership Agreement and Compete 2020. We are grateful to the Viana do Castelo City Council, and especially to Ricardo Carvalhido, for all the logistic support.

Road dust resuspension is one of the main sources of particulate matter with impacts on air quality, health and climate. With the aim of characterising the thoracic fraction, a portable resuspension chamber was used to collect road dust from five main roads in Oporto and an urban tunnel in Braga, north of Portugal. The PM10 samples were analysed for: i) carbonates by acidification and quantification of the evolved CO2, ii) carbonaceous content (OC and EC) by a thermo-optical technique, iii) elemental composition by ICP-MS and ICP-AES after acid digestion, and iv) organic speciation by GC-MS. Dust loadings of 0.48±0.39mgPM10m-2 were obtained for asphalt paved roads. A much higher mean value was achieved in a cobbled pavement (50mgPM10m-2). In general, carbonates were not detected in PM10. OC and EC accounted for PM10 mass fractions up to 11% and 5%, respectively. Metal oxides accounted for 29±7.5% of the PM10 mass from the asphalt paved roads and 73% in samples from the cobbled street. Crustal and anthropogenic elements, associated with tyre and brake wear, dominated the inorganic fraction. PM10 comprised hundreds of organic constituents, including hopanoids, n-alkanes and other aliphatics, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH), alcohols, sterols, various types of acids, glycerol derivatives, lactones, sugars and derivatives, phenolic compounds and plasticizers. In samples from the cobbled street, these organic classes represented only 439μgg-1PM10, while for other pavements mass fractions up to 65mgg-1PM10 were obtained. Except for the cobbled street, on average, about 40% of the analysed organic fraction was composed of plasticizers. Although the risk via inhalation of PAH was found to be insignificant, the PM10 from some roads can contribute to an estimated excess of 332 to 2183 per million new cancer cases in adults exposed via ingestion and dermal contact.

The use of charcoal for cooking and heating can be a major source of air pollution and lead to a wide range of health outcomes. The aim of this study was to experimentally quantify and characterise ...

Residential biomass burning has been pointed out as one of the largest sources of fine particles in the global troposphere with serious impacts on air quality, climate and human health. Quantitative estimations of the contribution of this source to the atmospheric particulate matter levels are hard to obtain, because emission factors vary greatly with wood type, combustion equipment and operating conditions. Updated information should improve not only regional and global biomass burning emission inventories, but also the input for atmospheric models. In this work, an extensive tabulation of particulate matter emission factors obtained worldwide is presented and critically evaluated. Existing quantifications and the suitability of specific organic markers to assign the input of residential biomass combustion to the ambient carbonaceous aerosol are also discussed. Based on these organic markers or other tracers, estimates of the contribution of this sector to observed particulate levels by receptor models for different regions around the world are compiled. Key areas requiring future research are highlighted and briefly discussed.

Beauty salons are considered occupational environments where the staff personnel and clients are exposed to high levels of airborne pollutants. In this study, air quality monitoring was carried out in L ́eon, Spain. Tem- perature, relative humidity, CO2, CO and particulate matter were continuously monitored inside and outside areas of the salon. PM10 was simultaneously collected onto filters. Volatile organic compounds and carbonyls were sampled inside the salon. Indoor PM10 concentrations exceeded the recommended 24-h guideline of 50 μg m3. A detailed PM10 chemical characterisation included organic and elemental carbon, trace elements, water- soluble ions and organic speciation. Indoor vs outdoor ratios of PM10, as well as the majority of PM10-bound organic compounds, were >1. During work periods, organic carbon accounted for 29.5 ± 1.8 and 16.2 ± 4.5 % wt. of PM10 indoors and outdoors, respectively. More than 200 individual organic compounds were detected in the PM10, including aliphatic alcohols, fatty acids, phthalates, glycerol derivatives, fatty acid alkyl esters, phenolic compounds, alkanes and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, among others. Many of them are part of formulations widely used in hair cosmetics, personal care and cleaning products. Inadequate ventilation, working activities and the use of specific products can greatly contribute to high indoor levels of organic air pollutants. Formaldehyde revealed a cancer risk of 4.6 × 10 6, higher than the guideline level, suggesting a “possible risk” for workers. The total excess lifetime cancer risk from exposure to multiple compounds was 9.3 × 10 6, which is lower than the acceptable risk, but not negligible. published

Particulate matter with aerodynamic diameter < 10 μm (PM10) was collected, indoors and outdoors, when wood burning appliances (open fireplace and woodstove) were in operation. The PM10 ecotoxicity was assessed with the Vibrio fischeri bioluminescence inhibition assay, while the cytotoxicity was evaluated by the WST-8 and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) release assays using A549 cells. Extracts of PM10-bound polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) were tested for their mutagenicity through the TA98 and TA100 Ames test. The bioluminescent inhibition assay revealed that indoor particles released from the fireplace were the most toxic. Indoors, the reduction in A549 cell metabolic activity was over two times higher for the fireplace in comparison with the woodstove (32 ± 3.2% and 72 ± 7.6% at the highest dose, respectively). Indoor particles from the fireplace were found to induce greater cytotoxicity than the corresponding outdoor samples. Combined WST-8 and LDH results suggest that PM10 exposure induce apoptotic cell death pathway in which the cell membrane integrity is maintained. Indoor and outdoor samples lacked direct and indirect mutagenic activity in any of the tester strains. For indoor-generated PM10, organic carbon and PAH were significantly correlated with cell viability and bioluminescence reduction, suggesting a role of organic compounds in toxicity. published

To obtain emission factors and cooking-related chemical signatures, a monitoring campaign was carried out in a modern kitchen where different dishes of the Latin cuisine were prepared. Particulate matter (PM10, PM2.5 and PM1) and total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs) were continuously measured. Passive tubes for carbonyls and a high volume PM10 sampler were simultaneously used. PM10 filters were analysed for organic and elemental carbon and for multiple organic compounds, including polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). The toxic potential of PM10 was evaluated using a bioluminescence inhibition bioassay. Acrolein was never detected, while formaldehyde and acetaldehyde levels were comparable to those in the background air. The protection limit for TVOCs was always exceeded. Fine particles comprised more than 86% of the PM10 mass concentrations. PM10 emission rates ranged from 124 to 369 μg min−1. Relatively low PAH concentrations were obtained. PM10 encompassed alcohols, acids, plasticisers, alkyl esters, sterols, sugars, polyols, glyceridic compounds, phenolics, among others. Total concentrations were 1.9–5.3 times higher during cooking than in the background air but, for some compounds, differences of tens or hundreds of times were registered. PM10 from grilled pork was found to contribute to non-negligible cancer risks and to be very toxic, while samples from other dishes were categorised as toxic.

Residential dust is recognized as a major source of environmental contaminants, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and plasticizers, such as phthalic acid esters (PAEs). A sampling campaign was carried out to characterize the dust fraction of particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter smaller than 10 &micro, m (PM10), using an in situ resuspension chamber in three rooms (kitchen, living room, and bedroom) of four Spanish houses. Two samples per room were collected with, at least, a one-week interval. The PM10 samples were analyzed for their carbonaceous content by a thermo-optical technique and, after solvent extraction, for 20 PAHs, 8 PAEs and one non-phthalate plasticizer (DEHA) by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. In general, higher dust loads were observed for parquet flooring as compared with tile. The highest dust loads were obtained for rugs. Total carbon accounted for 9.3 to 51 wt% of the PM10 mass. Plasticizer mass fractions varied from 5 &micro, g g&minus, 1 to 17 mg g&minus, 1 PM10, whereas lower contributions were registered for PAHs (0.98 to 116 &micro, 1). The plasticizer and PAH daily intakes for children and adults via dust ingestion were estimated to be three to four orders of magnitude higher than those via inhalation and dermal contact. The thoracic fraction of household dust was estimated to contribute to an excess of 7.2 to 14 per million people new cancer cases, which exceeds the acceptable risk of one per million.

Four types of pellets and three agro-fuels were chemically characterised and burned in a pellet stove. To assess the influence of the material composing the firebox and the combustion efficiency of distinct biomass heating devices in the composition of the bottom ashes, three of the pellets were also burned in a conventional woodstove and in a fireplace. Ashes were analysed for their C, H and N contents by an elemental analyser, whilst major and trace elements were quantified by inductively coupled plasma atomic-emission spectrometry and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry, respectively. The mineralogy of ashes was determined by X-ray powder diffraction. The European standard test was applied to samples to determine the leaching potential of major, minor and trace elements. The contents of major and trace elements in the different types of biomass presented enormous variations, which are reflected in dissimilar mineralogical and chemical compositions of the respective ashes. The leachable potential of several elements of environmental concern present in oxy-anionic form at the alkaline pH of biomass ashes were generally high in all samples. Concentrations of some elements in the leachates were in the range of values with classification of “hazardous materials” by the European legislation in what respects the acceptance of these wastes at landfills. Pellets made up of wood wastes and containing preservatives (chromated copper arsenate and ammoniacal copper arsenate) are of concern. Due to lower combustion efficiencies, the leachable potential for most of the trace elements in ashes from the woodstove, and especially from the fireplace, was lower than that of the pellet stove. © 2019, Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany, part of Springer Nature., This study was funded by the European Commission through the project “AIRUSE - Testing and Development of Air Quality Mitigation Measures in Southern Europe” (LIFE11 ENV/ES/000584). Estela Vicente received a fellowship (SFRH/BD/117993/2016) from the Portuguese Foundation for Science and Technology (FCT). This study was also financially supported by CESAM (UID/AMB/50017 - POCI-01-0145-FEDER-007638), FCT/MEC through national funds, FEDER, within the PT2020 Partnership Agreement and Compete 2020. The Generalitat de Catalunya (AGAUR 2017 SGR41) also supported this study.

The incomplete wood combustion in appliances operated in batch mode is a recognised source of both in- and outdoor airborne pollutants, especially particulate matter (PM). Data on pollutant levels and PM characteristics in households with wood burning devices in developed countries are scarce with most studies describing stove change out programmes or other intervention measures. The aim of the present study was to simultaneously evaluate indoor and outdoor concentrations of CO, CO2 and PM10 during the operation of wood burning appliances (open fireplace and woodstove) in unoccupied rural households. PM10 samples were analysed for water soluble inorganic ions, major and trace elements, organic carbon (OC), elemental carbon (EC), and detailed organic speciation. The CO 8-hour average concentrations did not exceed the protection limit despite the sharp increases observed in relation to background levels. During the open fireplace operation, PM10 levels rose up 12 times compared to background concentrations, while the airtight stove resulted in a 2-fold increase. The inhalation cancer risk of particulate bound PAHs in the room equipped with wood stove was estimated to be negligible while the long-term exposure to PAH levels measured in the fireplace room may contribute to the development of cancer. The excess lifetime cancer risk resulting from the particle-bound Cr (VI) exposure during the fireplace and woodstove operation was higher than 1.0 × 10−6 and 1.0 × 10−5, respectively. Levoglucosan was one of the most abundant individual species both indoors and outdoors. This study underlines air pollution hazards and risks arising from the operation of traditional wood burning appliances. published

The consumption of pellets and alternative biofuels, such as some agricultural residues, has experienced a tremendous growth in Mediterranean countries, which has changed the panorama of biomass burning emissions. To apply source apportionment models, specific chemical signatures for smoke aerosols are necessary. In this study, filter samples of fine particles (PM2.5) from the combustion of four different types of pellets and three agro-fuels (shell of pine nuts, olive pit and almond shell) in a pellet stove were collected. The PM2.5 samples were extracted with dichloromethane/methanol and the dried extracts were silylated before injection into the gas chromatograph-mass spectrometer (GC-MS). The analysis included monosaccharide anhydrides, resin acids, methoxyphenols and sterols. The amounts emitted were highly variable and dependent on both biofuel and combustion temperature. On average, the anhydrosugar particle mass fractions for the seven biofuels were 30 to 70 times lower than the values reported for manually fired systems. The highest levoglucosan emissions were observed for olive pit. Levoglucosan to mannosan ratios ranged from values around 2 for pellets and shell of pine nuts to much higher quotients, similar to those reported for hardwood combustion. Irrespective of biofuel, vanillin and vanillic acid were always present in the smoke samples. Coniferyl alcohol was only detected in samples from the combustion of olive pit and pellets with the highest softwood content. Sinapyl alcohol was exclusively emitted by olive pit. Dehydroabietic and isopimaric acids were represented in emissions whether from all type of pellets or from shell of pine nuts, whilst abietic acid was only quantifiable in PM2.5 from the combustion of pellets made of coniferous wood. Sitosterol was solely detected in smoke particles from shell of pine nuts and olive pit.

This study presents continuous measurements of size-segregated particulate matter, total volatile organic compounds, ozone, formaldehyde, comfort parameters (temperature and relative humidity), CO and CO2 at two copy centres (A and B) in Aveiro, Portugal. PM10 samples collected with low-volume samplers were used to determine the carbonaceous content (organic and elemental carbon) by a thermo-optical technique. Mean PM10 levels of 55.8 ± 7.50 μg m−3 and 51.3 ± 9.35 μg m−3 were obtained in copy centres A and B, respectively. The 24-h indoor PM10 concentration at both copy centres exceeded the protection limit established by the Portuguese legislation. Around 60 % of the PM10 were composed of particles with sizes below 2.5 μm. On average, organic carbon accounted for 27.6 % (copy centre A) and 18.6 % (copy centre B) of the PM10 mass indoors, whereas a lower mass fraction of 11.5 % was found for both outdoor spaces. The much higher indoor levels of organic carbon suggest significant contribution by indoor sources. The ozone level increased in both copy centres when the photocopiers started to work. Mean ozone levels (0.055 ± 0.005 and 0.048 ± 0.006 ppm in copy centres A and B, respectively) during business hours may exceed the standard recommended for workplaces (0.05 ppm), representing a cause of possible adverse health effects on employees. The indoor-to-outdoor ozone concentration ratios were greater than 1 in both centres, indicating an important contribution of indoor sources. Formaldehyde levels remained always below the World Health Organisation guideline for indoor air (0.1 mg m−3). Total concentrations of volatile organic compounds were also relatively low, in general ranging from around 190 to 300 ppb. The indoor-to-outdoor concentration ratios were in the range between 0.70 and 0.76. Results showed that operation of laser printers can lead to high particulate matter and ozone concentration indoors. Pollutants associated with printing equipment have potential to cause adverse health effects if exposures are sufficiently high. Precautions should be taken to minimise the risks of exposed workers.

Wood combustion experiments were carried out in a Portuguese woodstove to determine the effects of biofuel type, ignition technique, biomass load and cleavage, as well as secondary air supply, on the chemical composition of particles (PM 10 ). Two typical wood fuels in the Iberian Peninsula were tested: pine ( Pinus pinaster ), a softwood, and beech ( Fagus sylvatica ), a hardwood. PM 10 samples were analysed for organic and elemental carbon (OC and EC), levoglucosan and 56 elements. Total carbon (TC) represented 54–73 wt.% of the particulate mass emitted during the combustion process, regardless of wood species burned or operating condition tested. The carbonaceous component of PM 10 was dominated by OC. The OC content of PM 10 was higher when higher loads were fed into the combustion chamber, for both fuels. EC represented from 8 to 35 wt.% of the particulate mass. OC/EC ranged from 1.1 to 6.1 (avg. 3.0 ± 1.8) for pine combustion and from 1.1 to 3.4 (avg. 2.0 ± 0.8) for beech combustion. The lowest OC/EC ratios for both woods were observed for ignition from the top. Levoglucosan was found in all samples, representing from 3.7 to 7.5 wt.% and from 4.2 to 8.9 wt.% of PM 10 emitted from the combustion of pine and beech, respectively. The use of low loads of fuel generated high amounts of levoglucosan either for pine or beech. Altogether, trace elements obtained by ICP-MS and ICP-AES comprised from 0.46 wt.% to 1.41 wt.% and from 0.87 wt.% to 2.36 wt.% of the PM 10 mass for pine and beech combustion, respectively. Among elements, K, Ca, Na, Mg, Fe and Al contributed to more than 75% of the total ICP-MS mass. Potassium was the major element in almost all PM 10 samples.

Passive diffusion tubes for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and carbonyls and low volume particulate matter (PM2.5) samplers were used simultaneously in kitchens and outdoor air of four dwellings. PM2.5 filters were analysed for their carbonaceous content (organic and elemental carbon, OC and EC) by a thermo-optical technique and for polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAHs) and plasticisers by GC-MS. The morphology and chemical composition of selected PM2.5 samples were characterised by SEM-EDS. The mean indoor PM2.5 concentrations ranged from 14 &micro, g m&minus, 3 to 30 &micro, 3, while the outdoor levels varied from 18 &micro, 3. Total carbon represented up to 40% of the PM2.5 mass. In general, the indoor OC/EC ratios were higher than the outdoor values. Indoor-to-outdoor ratios higher than 1 were observed for VOCs, carbonyls and plasticisers. PAH levels were much higher in the outdoor air. The particulate material was mainly composed of soot aggregates, fly ashes and mineral particles. The hazard quotients associated with VOC inhalation suggested a low probability of non-cancer effects, while the cancer risk was found to be low, but not negligible. Residential exposure to PAHs was dominated by benzo[a]pyrene and has shown to pose an insignificant cancer risk.

In Europe, wood-fired stoves remain as major renewable household heating and emission sources. This study focused on improving the performance of a wood stove (natural draft) traditionally used in Portugal by the adoption of alternative combustion air retrofits. Additionally, the performance of a new pellet stove (forced-air) was determined to investigate the highest achievable goal for solid-fuel stoves. In the wood stove, an outer chimney component was installed around the existing chimney to allow the vertical admission of outdoor air that was preheated before entering the combustion chamber. This measure increased the thermal efficiency of the wood stove from 62% to up to 79%. Another component was used to administrate secondary air to the wood stove reducing the carbon monoxide emissions by 39% to 2808 mg Nm−3. The two retrofits enhanced a more stable heat release from the wood stove, which reached a thermal efficiency 11% lower than that achieved by the pellet stove. This research suggests that retrofitting stoves with chimney components that allow the admission of combustion air can substantially increase energy savings in dwellings. Further efforts should focus on improving the interplay between the outdoor air and secondary air admission to achieve higher emission reductions at low-cost.

Residential biomass combustion may represent a significant emission source of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and derivatives, some of which are known for their toxicity. In this study, a manually operated batch stove (burning wood logs) and an automatic pellet stove were selected to carry out combustion experiments. Two types of firewood (pine and eucalypt) were used as fuels in the manual stove. Four types of pellets and three agricultural fuels (olive pit, almond shell and shell of pine nuts) were selected for the automatic stove. The particulate matter (PM10) samples from the exhaust flue gas were solvent extracted and analysed for 26 parent and alkyl-PAHs, 15 nitrated PAHs (NPAHs), 15 oxygenated PAHs (OPAHs) and 4 azaarenes (AZAs) by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. The global parent PAH emission factors (EFs) for the pellet stove ranged from 0.046 to 0.51 mg kg−1 of fuel burned, dry basis (db). The EFs obtained for the manual stove varied from 0.33 to 1.97 and from 8.65 to 24.3 mg kg−1 (db) for the combustion of eucalypt and pine, respectively. The devolatilisation phase of softwood in the latter appliance is critical because benzo[a]pyrene emissions can be more than 1,000 times higher than the values observed for any other combustion stages, appliance or biofuels. As for parent PAHs, it was observed that emissions of OPAHs, NPAHs and AZAs vary greatly depending on either the biofuel or the combustion technology.

article i nfo Wood combustion experiments were carried out to determine the effect of ignition technique, biomass load and cleavage, as well as secondary air supply, on carbon monoxide (CO), total hydrocarbon (THC), particulate matter (PM10) and particle number emissions from a woodstove. Wood from two typicaltree species in theIberian Pen- insula was selected: pine (Pinus pinaster) and beech (Fagus sylvatica). The highest CO and total hydrocarbon emission factors (EFs) were observed, respectively, for pine and beech, for high and low fuel loads. The highest PM10EFwasrecordedfortheoperationwithlowloadsforbothwoods.Secondaryairsupplyproducedthelowest PM10emission factors. The top ignition can decrease the PM10 EF to less than half when compared with the com- mon technique of lighting from the bottom. The lowest particle number emission factors were observed when operating with high loads of split beech logs and when using secondary air supply during the combustion of pine. Regarding particle number distributions, the highest geometric mean diameter (Dg), for both woods, were observed when operating with high loads (with split and non-split wood).

Volatile organic compound (VOC) samples were collected from the exhaust stacks on the roofs of a university canteen, a charcoal-grilled chicken restaurant and a wood-oven roasted piglet restaurant on sorbent tubes with Carbopack B and C packing and analysed by thermal desorption-gas chromatography-flame ionisation detection. Concurrent sampling of carbonyls was also conducted using 2,4-dinitrophenylhydrazine cartridges with analysis by high-performance liquid chromatography. Two main reasons may have contributed to the emission of much lower levels in the exhaust of the kitchen of the university canteen: (i) hoods having thick filters and (ii) use of gas and electricity as energy sources for cooking. Larger emission rates of 2-butanone were measured from boiled dishes prepared in the canteen than those from other menus. Chlorinated VOCs have only been detected in samples of the chicken restaurant. Benzene was the compound with the highest emission rates from the chicken and piglet restaurants (201 and 178 kg year−1, respectively). In general, the emissions from most dishes presented a higher concentration of acetaldehyde compared to formaldehyde. The ozone formation potentials of VOCs and carbonyls emitted by the two restaurants are incomparably higher than those estimated for the university canteen. The reactivity of VOCs from the chicken and piglet restaurants is higher than those reported for vehicle emissions or other sources.

An experimental study was conducted at field conditions in order to evaluate the effect of application of ash from biomass combustion on some soil fertility characteristics and plant growth. Application of 7.5 Mg ha-1 industrial fly ash (IA), domestic ash (DA), and a 50:50 mix of domestic ash (DA) and spent coffee grounds (SCG) was made in different soil parcels. Lolium perenne seeds were sown and the grown biomass was harvested and quantified after 60 days. Soil samples from each parcel were also collected after that period and characterized. Both soil and grown biomass samples were analyzed for Ca, Mg, Na, K, P, Fe, Mn, Zn, and Al contents. Soil pH was determined before and after amendment. All applications rose significantly soil pH. Domestic ash, whether combined with coffee grounds or not, proved to be efficient at supplying available macronutrients Ca, Mg, K, and P to the soil and also reducing availability of Al (more than industrial ash). However, it inhibited plant growth, even more when combined with spent coffee grounds. As regards to elemental abundance in plant tissue, both domestic ash treatments reduced Ca and enhanced Al contents, unlike industrial ash, which proved less harmful for the load applied in the soil. Hence, it was possible to conclude that application load should be a limiting factor for this management option for the studied materials. published

Introduction: In Portugal, the residential burning of wood biomass is used by 3.5 million people, representing 37% of the general population (62% in the coldest areas) (Goncalves, C. et al. Atmospheric Environment 2012; 50: 297-306). Biomass burning is an important and increasing source of particulate matter, a major component of air pollution. Aims and objectives: We evaluated the toxicity of exposure to particles from biomass burning. Methods: This study was approved by the Ethics Committee on Animal Use: IBCCF 132/14. Swiss mice received one intranasal instillation (15 μL) of either distilled water (CTRL group) or biomass-burning particles (0.014 μg in 15 μL distilled water, BIOM group). Twenty-four hours after instillation, lung mechanics was determined by the end-inflation occlusion method; left lungs were prepared for histology and right lungs for cytokine detection by ELISA. Results: Static elastance, viscoelastic component of elastance, viscoelastic/inhomogeneous pressure and resistive pressure in CTRL group (32.9±1.2 cmH 2 O/mL, 4.4±0.2 cmH 2 O/mL, 0.9±0.1 cmH 2 O and 0.9±0.1 cmH 2 O, respectively) were similar to those in BIOM mice (31.4±1.3 cmH 2 O/mL, 4.2±0.1 cmH 2 O/mL, 1.0±0.1 cmH 2 O and 0.9±0.1 cmH 2 O, respectively). TNF-α did not differ between groups (56.1±6.0 pg/mg protein and 56.8±5.2 pg/mg protein, respectively). The polymorphonuclear cells amount and IL-1β level were larger (p 2 ; 1.5±1.0 pg/mg protein, respectively) than in CTRL (12.4±1.3 cell/mm 2 ; 1.2±1.0 pg/mg protein, respectively). Conclusions: A single minute dose of ambient particulate matter produced by biomass burning induced significant pulmonary inflammatory alterations, but no changes in lung mechanics.

Combustion of residual forest biomass (RFB) derived from eucalypt (Eucalyptus globulus), pine (Pinus pinaster) and golden wattle (Acacia longifolia) was evaluated in a pilot-scale bubbling fluidised bed reactor (BFBR). During the combustion experiments, monitoring of temperature, pressure and exhaust gas composition has been made. Ash samples were collected at several locations along the furnace and flue gas treatment devices (cyclone and bag filter) after each combustion experiment and were analysed for their unburnt carbon content and chemical composition. Total suspended particles (TSP) in the combustion flue gas were evaluated at the inlet and outlet of cyclone and baghouse filter and further analysed for organic and elemental carbon, carbonates and 57 chemical elements. High particulate matter collection efficiencies in the range of 94-99% were observed for the baghouse, while removal rates of only 1.4-17% were registered for the cyclone. Due to the sand bed, Si was the major element in bottom ashes. Fly ashes, in particular those from eucalypt combustion, were especially rich in CaO, followed by relevant amounts of SiO2, MgO and K2O. Ash characteristics varied among experiments, showing that their inorganic composition strongly depends on both the biomass composition and combustion conditions. Inorganic constituents accounted for TSP mass fractions up to 40 wt%. Elemental carbon, organic matter and carbonates contributed to TSP mass fractions in the ranges 0.58-44%, 0.79-78% and 0.01-1.7%, respectively. published

Domestic biofuel combustion is one of the major sources of regional and local air pollution, mainly regarding particulate matter and organic compounds, during winter periods. Mutagenic and carcinogenic activity potentials of the ambient particulate matter have been associated with the fraction of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) and their oxygenated (OPAH) and nitrogenated (NPAH) derivatives. This study aimed at assessing the mutagenicity potential of the fraction of this polycyclic aromatic compound in particles (PM10) from domestic combustion by using the Ames assays with Salmonella typhimurium TA98 and TA100. Seven biofuels, including four types of pellets and three agro-fuels (olive pit, almond shell and shell of pine nuts), were tested in an automatic pellet stove, and two types of wood (Pinus pinaster, maritime pine, and Eucalyptus globulus, eucalypt) were burned in a traditional wood stove. For this latter appliance, two combustion phases-devolatilisation and flaming/smouldering-were characterised separately. A direct-acting mutagenic effect for the devolatilisation phase of pine combustion and for both phases of eucalypt combustion was found. Almond shell revealed a weak direct-acting mutagenic effect, while one type of pellets, made of recycled wastes, and pine (devolatilisation) presented a cytotoxic effect towards strain TA100. Compared to the manually fired appliance, the automatic pellet stove promoted lower polyaromatic mutagenic emissions. For this device, only two of the studied biofuels presented a weak mutagenic or cytotoxic potential.

Interest in renewable energy sources has increased in recent years due to environmental concerns about global warming and air pollution, reduced costs and improved efficiency of technologies. Under the European Union (EU) energy directive, biomass is a suitable renewable source. The aim of this study was to experimentally quantify and characterize the emission of particulate matter (PM2.5) resulting from the combustion of two biomass fuels (chipped residual biomass from pine and eucalypt), in a pilot-scale bubbling fluidized bed (BFB) combustor under distinct operating conditions. The variables evaluated were the stoichiometry and, in the case of eucalypt, the leaching of the fuel. The CO and PM2.5 emission factors were lower when the stoichiometry used in the experiments was higher (0.33±0.1 g CO/kg and 16.8±1.0 mg PM2.5/kg, dry gases). The treatment of the fuel by leaching before its combustion has shown to promote higher PM2.5 emissions (55.2±2.5 mg/kg, as burned). Organic and elemental carbon represented 3.1 to 30 wt.% of the particle mass, while carbonate (CO3(2-)) accounted for between 2.3 and 8.5 wt.%. The particulate mass was mainly composed of inorganic matter (71% to 86% of the PM2.5 mass). Compared to residential stoves, BFB combustion generated very high mass fractions of inorganic elements. Chloride was the water soluble ion in higher concentration in the PM2.5 emitted by the combustion of eucalypt, while calcium was the dominant water soluble ion in the case of pine.

Seven fuels (four types of wood pellets and three agro-fuels) were tested in an automatic pellet stove (9.5 kWth) in order to determine emission factors (EFs) of gaseous compounds, such as carbon monoxide (CO), methane (CH4), formaldehyde (HCHO), and total organic carbon (TOC). Particulate matter (PM10) EFs and the corresponding chemical compositions for each fuel were also obtained. Samples were analysed for organic carbon (OC) and elemental carbon (EC), anhydrosugars and 57 chemical elements. The fuel type clearly affected the gaseous and particulate emissions. The CO EFs ranged from 90.9 ± 19.3 (pellets type IV) to 1480 ± 125 mg MJ−1 (olive pit). Wood pellets presented the lowest TOC emission factor among all fuels. HCHO and CH4 EFs ranged from 1.01 ± 0.11 to 36.9 ± 6.3 mg MJ−1 and from 0.23 ± 0.03 to 28.7 ± 5.7 mg MJ−1, respectively. Olive pit was the fuel with highest emissions of these volatile organic compounds. The PM10 EFs ranged from 26.6 ± 3.14 to 169 ± 23.6 mg MJ−1. The lowest PM10 emission factor was found for wood pellets type I (fuel with low ash content), whist the highest was observed during the combustion of an agricultural fuel (olive pit). The OC content of PM10 ranged from 8 wt.% (pellets type III) to 29 wt.% (olive pit). Variable EC particle mass fractions, ranging from 3 wt.% (olive pit) to 47 wt.% (shell of pine nuts), were also observed. The carbonaceous content of particulate matter was lower than that reported previously during the combustion of several wood fuels in traditional woodstoves and fireplaces. Levoglucosan was the most abundant anhydrosugar, comprising 0.02–3.03 wt.% of the particle mass. Mannosan and galactosan were not detected in almost all samples. Elements represented 11–32 wt.% of the PM10 mass emitted, showing great variability depending on the type of biofuel used.