Development of Improved Charcoal-Fueled Cookstove for Cooking Applications in Rural Households

<p>In the Philippines, charcoal is among the preferred fuel types used for residential cooking and water boiling applications. However, charcoal combustion emissions are known to contain compounds toxic to human health. It is estimated that millions of Filipinos residing in households that use charcoal for cooking and water boiling may be exposed to alarming concentrations of household air pollutants (HAP). Indoor exposure of residents is a function of many variables such as fuel combustion efficiency, fuel type, emission exhaust from the dwelling space, ventilation, and kitchen placement and orientation. The study focused on the development of an improved cookstove, the assessment of its performance, and the impact of its use on the exposure of a simulated occupant. A modified water boiling test was conducted, based on the protocol developed by the Global Alliance for Clean Cookstoves. Cookstove performance was quantified using the former's ready-made e-spreadsheet. HAP considered in the study were carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and both respirable and inhalable particulate matter. Physical conditions (dry bulb temperature and relative humidity) were also assessed.