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COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF EMISSIONS: FOSSIL FUELS AND BIOMASS COMBUSTION IN DOMESTIC HEATING

Ginevra Barbieri , PhD Student, Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences (DiSA), University of Udine, Via delle Scienze, loc. Rizzi, Udine, Italy

Abstract

Domestic heating contributes significantly to global emissions, with fossil fuels and biomass being the primary energy sources. This study provides a comparative analysis of emissions resulting from the combustion of fossil fuels (coal, natural gas, and oil) and biomass (wood, pellets, and agricultural residues) in domestic heating systems. The research evaluates emission factors, including particulate matter (PM), carbon dioxide (CO2), carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The analysis reveals that while biomass is often considered a renewable and carbon-neutral source, its combustion can release significant quantities of PM and VOCs. Conversely, fossil fuels, particularly natural gas, emit lower levels of particulate matter but contribute more to CO2 emissions. The study highlights the trade-offs between using biomass and fossil fuels, considering factors such as efficiency, environmental impact, and air quality. These findings aim to inform policymakers and stakeholders in making sustainable energy decisions for domestic heating.

Keywords

Domestic heating, Fossil fuels, Biomass combustion

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Ginevra Barbieri. (2024). COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF EMISSIONS: FOSSIL FUELS AND BIOMASS COMBUSTION IN DOMESTIC HEATING. The American Journal of Agriculture and Biomedical Engineering, 6(12), 1–5. Retrieved from https://theamericanjournals.com/index.php/tajabe/article/view/5679