Particles emitted from smouldering peat: size-resolved composition and emission factors†

Abstract

Peat fires emit large quantities of particles and gases, which cause extensive haze events. Epidemiological studies have correlated wildfire smoke inhalation with increased morbidity and mortality. Despite this, uncertainties surrounding particle properties and their impact on human health and the climate remain. To expand on the limited understanding this laboratory study investigated the physicochemical characteristics of particles emitted from smouldering Irish peat. Properties investigated included number and mass emission factors (EFs), size distribution, morphology, and chemical composition. Fine particles with a diameter less than 2.5 μm (PM_2.5), accounted for 91 ± 2% of the total particle mass and the associated mass EF was 12.52 ± 1.40 g kg⁻¹. Transmission electron microscopy imaging revealed irregular shaped metal particles, spherical sulfate particles, and carbonaceous particles with clusters of internal particles. Extracted particle-bound metals accounted for 3.1 ± 0.5% of the total particle mass, with 86% of the quantified metals residing in the fraction with a diameter less than 1 μm. Redox active and carcinogenic metals were detected in the particles, which have been correlated with adverse health effects if inhaled. This study improves the understanding of size-resolved particle characteristics relevant to near-source human exposure and will provide a basis for comparison to other controlled and natural peatland fires.