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Assessment of reductions in CO, PAHs and PM emissions in a forced-draft biomass gasification cookstove

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  • Valencia-López, A.M.
  • Romero-Menco, F.
  • Bustamante, F.
  • Pérez, J.F.

Abstract

Forced-draft biomass gasification cookstoves (BGC) enhance thermal efficiency and reduce carbon monoxide (CO) and particulate matter (PM) emissions compared to traditional combustion stoves. However, their impact on co-emitted toxics, such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), is less studied. We experimentally evaluated the performance of a wood-pellets BGC and a wood-logs 3-Stone Fire (3SF) stove to assess the potential impact on indoor air quality. The BGC doubled the 3SF's efficiency and reduced CO, CO2, SO2, and total suspended particulate matter (TSPM) by 85 %, 23 %, 97 %, and 82 %, respectively. PAHs in the gas phase (mainly naphthalene and phenanthrene) decreased by over 41 %, while PAHs in TSPM—primarily with 4- to 6-ring aromatics—dropped by more than 98 %. TSPM analysis revealed chain-like agglomerates and independent spheres in the BGC emissions, compared to the amorphous, tar-like material from the 3SF. BGC-emitted TSPM contained 64 % less volatile material and 66 % more fixed carbon. Its FTIR spectra showed fewer oxygenated compounds and more methyl, methylene, and methine groups bonded to aromatic rings. These findings highlight the synergistic benefits of using pelletized biomass in a BGC under controlled air-feed conditions, which could inform improved cookstove programs currently being developed in regions such as Latin America.

Suggested Citation

  • Valencia-López, A.M. & Romero-Menco, F. & Bustamante, F. & Pérez, J.F., 2025. "Assessment of reductions in CO, PAHs and PM emissions in a forced-draft biomass gasification cookstove," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 245(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:renene:v:245:y:2025:i:c:s096014812500477x
    DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2025.122815
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    References listed on IDEAS

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