Project Objectives

This proposal will derive detailed emission factors (EF) for a range of gaseous and particulate emissions associated with combustion of solid fuels in (i) a stove, and (ii) an open fireplace, representative of the types used in Ireland. 

Specifically, the project will achieve the following outcomes:

1. Develop an appropriate test protocol, and prepare a safe, secure, high-quality facility in which to conduct the experimental programme. 
2. Generate a comprehensive database of raw measurements of gaseous, condensable, and particulate emissions to air, associated with the combustion of solid fuels commonly used in Ireland, including wood logs (seasoned and wet), smokeless coals, and peat (sod and briquette). 
3. Provide a detailed characterisation of particles and gases coming from combustion of these fuels. 
4. Deliver a full suite of emission factors for the wood and peat fuels tested, in an open fireplace and in a typical stove, and make these available via the public EPA Research Data Archive. 
5. Assess PM measurement standards and methodologies referred to in national solid fuel legislation, with a view to producing practical updated methodologies for solid fuel emission estimates (in g/GJ) that provide standardised, consistent and comparable basis for emissions testing for different solid fuels and appliance types in line with the legislation, the inventory and other industry standards. 
6. Manage the project to ensure it is completed on time, and within budget. 
7. Clearly communicate key findings with policy makers, stakeholders, and the wider public.