BS: Burning Volcanic Ash

Subject: BS: Burning Volcanic Ash
From: Metchosin
Date: 11 Jan 06 - 03:12 PM

Thought this question might get lost on the Alaska thread...I noted today, in the Guardian, that Augustine Volcano has erupted and that officials, amongst other warnings to nearby residents, have advised not to burn wood, that has volcanic ash on it, in their stoves and fireplaces. I'd like to know why?

Subject: RE: BS: Burning Volcanic Ash
From: MMario
Date: 11 Jan 06 - 03:31 PM

I have found a few references that indicate under some circumstances some volcanic ash when burned with wood *might* cause various harmful gases

Subject: RE: BS: Burning Volcanic Ash
From: TIA
Date: 11 Jan 06 - 04:38 PM

Gases are not such a concern - they were probably driven off by the heat of the eruption. Main danger is that it aerosolizes minute silica particles in with the (mostly) harmless wood smoke. Silicosos in the making.

Subject: RE: BS: Burning Volcanic Ash
From: GUEST,TIA
Date: 11 Jan 06 - 09:11 PM

"silicosis"

silly me says

Subject: RE: BS: Burning Volcanic Ash
From: Q (Frank Staplin)
Date: 11 Jan 06 - 09:25 PM

Volcanic ash, examined under strong magnification, shows that it contains millions of little solidified, very thin-walled silicate bubbles, each containing gases from the volcano. Burning causes the bubbles to break, spreading their content. TIA is correct, silicosis possible if much is breathed. Moreover, sulfur compounds are normally present, creating a stink when the fresh ash is burned.

Subject: RE: BS: Burning Volcanic Ash
From: Metchosin
Date: 11 Jan 06 - 10:37 PM

Thank you all, I sort of thought that might be the case, but I couldn't find anything on the net regarding it.

Subject: RE: BS: Burning Volcanic Ash
From: robomatic
Date: 11 Jan 06 - 10:56 PM

Hmm, I was requested for some volcanic ash by a friend who wanted to try it as a glaze. I hope I didn't do wrong in sending it him. Apparently it wasn't much of a glaze.

Subject: RE: BS: Burning Volcanic Ash
From: Metchosin
Date: 12 Jan 06 - 01:52 AM

I wouldn't concern myself robomatic, the heat in a kiln is a lot higher than most stoves and fireplaces, so I would think that the more complete combustion that occurs in a kiln would render most stuff harmless.

The problem with some stoves and fireplaces is that the by-products of a less than complete combustion can escape into a room. Be it the by-products of burning volcanic ash or wood smoke, both have their inherent risks.

Subject: RE: BS: Burning Volcanic Ash
From: SINSULL
Date: 12 Jan 06 - 09:32 AM

Pottery glaze or glazed ham????