Composition of woodsmokeWoodsmoke particles consist mainly of tiny droplets of oils and tars that escape from the wood heater or open fireplace due to incomplete combustion. They are released as vapour, which forms droplets as it cools. These tiny droplets are what we observe as visible smoke plumes. Almost all particles in woodsmoke are in the PM2.5 category, with most particles less than 1 micron. The components of woodsmoke include:
Many of the same chemicals are found in both wood smoke and tobacco smoke, which is not surprising as both result from incomplete combustion of organic material. Exposure to woodsmoke can:
Woodsmoke is a major source of fine particles (PM2.5) in many parts of Australia in winter. Further Information
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