Combustion products

GASES FROM COMBUSTION  (burning fuels, like in a heater or a gas stove indoors)

  • Carbon monoxide (CO) — Effects:  Drowsiness, headaches, death.  Testing:  continuous monitor (1-50 ppm using a Forensics Detectors unit).
  • Carbon dioxide (CO2) — Other Sources:  Breathing.  Effects:  Drowsiness.  Testing:  continuous monitor (200-2,000 ppm using the Telaire Model 7001).
  • Nitrogen oxides (NOx) = nitric oxide (NO) + nitrogen dioxide (NO2) — Effects:  Upper respiratory irritation.
  • Formaldehyde (HCHO) — from incomplete combustion of carbon fuels (and particle board).  Testing:  continuous monitor (0.01-0.3 ppm using impingers & colorimetry).
  • Auto exhaust from traffic outdoors.

PARTICULATE MATTER  FROM COMBUSTION  (burning fuels)

  • Soot particles — the broad category of black stuff.

CONTROL OF AIR POLLUTANTS

  • Keep combustion appliances (fuel-burning stoves, heaters, or furnaces) in good repair and properly vented to outdoors.
  • Avoid back-drafting.  Strong exhaust fans can suck combustion gases back down flues.