Emissions of organic compounds from the combustion of oats - a comparison with softwood pellets

High concentrations of 1,6-anhydroglucose and furan-related compounds were released from the initial smouldering of oats, while high concentrations of methoxyphenols were released during the initial smouldering of wood pellets. The results indicate that oats are a biofuel with relatively low emissions during combustion, almost as low as those from wood pellets. After-flame smouldering of oats released lower concentrations of methane, alkenes and aromatic hydrocarbons than the after-flame smouldering of wood pellets. The large differences in emissions from the various combustion stages should be considered when evaluating the environmental aspects and health effects of residential burning of oats and wood pellets.