Levels of polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins and dibenzofurans in wood burning stoves and fireplaces

Abstract

Samples of bottom ash and chimney ash were collected from two wood burning stoves, one open fireplace, and from out-of-doors open-air burning. Although only untreated wood was burned, PCDD/PCDF was detected in all samples. Large differences in total PCDD/PCDF and relative congener amounts were observed between samples, although within-congener isomer patterns were very similar and in some cases resembled the patterns detected in municipal incinerator flyash. Acid treatment of the ash before extraction increased the amounts of PCDD/PCDF detected.