Measurement of ultrafine particles and other air pollutants emitted by cooking activities

Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2010 Apr;7(4):1744-59. doi: 10.3390/ijerph7041744. Epub 2010 Apr 16.

Abstract

Cooking emissions show a strong dependence on cooking styles and parameters. Measurements of the average ultrafine particle (UFP) concentration, PM(2.5) and black carbon concentrations emitted by cooking activities ranged from 1.34 x 10(4) to 6.04 x 10(5) particles/cm(3), 10.0 to 230.9 microg/m(3) and 0.1 to 0.8 microg/m(3), respectively. Lower UFP concentrations were observed during boiling, while higher levels were emitted during frying. The highest UFP concentrations were observed when using a gas stove at high temperature with the kitchen exhaust fan turned off. The observed UFP profiles were similar in the kitchen and in another room, with a lag of approximately 10 min.

Keywords: cooking emissions; cooking parameters; cooking style; spatial profile.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.

MeSH terms

  • Air Pollutants*
  • Cooking*
  • Particle Size*

Substances

  • Air Pollutants