The quantitative proportions of 16 alkenes, 5 alkadienes, 5 alkynes and several alkanes and arenes were detennined in emissions from wood burning in a wood-stove and in small-scale model experiments. Samples were taken on triple-layer adsorption cartridges, and gas chromatographic separations were performed on an aluminium oxide column.Ethene, ethyne and benzene were major components, especially from efficient flame combustion. The proportions of C 3 -C 7 alkenes were markedly higher for smouldering. The carcinogenic compounds benzene and 1,3-butadiene constituted roughly 10-20% and 1-2% by weight of total non-methane hydrocarbons. Similar results were obtained for hardwood and softwood.

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Well over thirty combustion-formed non-methane hydrocarbons were determined from uncontrolled burning of biogenic materials. Results are given for straw, conifer twigs, newsprint and hardwood. Samples were taken on triple-layer adsorption cartridges. After thermal desorption, the hydrocarbons were separated by gas chromatography on an aluminium oxide column. Samples were also taken with a gas syringe and analyzed after gas injection. The hydrocarbon proportions were found to be remarkably similar for different kinds of biomass. Among 21 recorded alkenes and alkadienes, ethene was predominant, and the next most prominent species were propene and 1,3-butadiene. The large proportions of ethyne and the carcinogenic benzene increased further with increasing combustion efficiency.

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Related studies by the authors of volatile hydrocarbons in ambient air: Road tunnels-Tobacco smoke-Domestic wood burning An at least five-fold higher exposure of private car commuters relative to train commuters was reported in a preceding study based on aromatic hydrocarbons.

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The results imply severe exposure to people in vehicles using road tunnels and influenced extensive plans for long road tunnels in Stockholm and Göteborg.

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