Chemical and mineral composition of ashes from wood biomass combustion in domestic wood-fired furnaces

Abstract The paper presents the results of studies on ashes produced from burning wood biomass in closed wood-fired furnaces, individual household furnaces (Silesian Province, Poland). Dry sieve analysis and detailed granulometric were performed with Analysette 22 Micro Tec plus analyser. Content basic elements (Al, Si, P, Na, K, Mg, Ca, Fe) potentially toxic (As, Pb, Cd, Zn, Cu, Ni, Cr, Hg) was determined by atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) inductively coupled plasma mass (ICP-MS). Relative enrichment factors (REF s ) calculated for (Pb, As, Hg, Cr), emissions (E) As to environment estimated. carbon content (40.2%–45.8%), H (3.7%–6.1%), O (46.2%–50.2%), N (0.12%–0.32%), S (0.11%–0.96%) varies depends species drying period. volatile parts ranges between 69.3 81%. Ash 2.6 18.3%. calorific value 13.6 MJ/kg 17.4 MJ/kg. Moisture 13.7% (briquette) 46.7% (fresh birch). Identification mineral composition phases yields a high share calcite, monetite, fairchildite, quartz examined ashes. combustion fireplaces increased Pb Cd atmosphere may be cause introducing pollutants waters soils during ash storage.