To Thread - Forum Home

The Mudcat Café TM
https://mudcat.org/thread.cfm?threadid=87967
9 messages

BS: Burning Volcanic Ash

11 Jan 06 - 03:12 PM (#1646412)
Subject: BS: Burning Volcanic Ash
From: Metchosin

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?


11 Jan 06 - 03:31 PM (#1646430)
Subject: RE: BS: Burning Volcanic Ash
From: MMario

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


11 Jan 06 - 04:38 PM (#1646491)
Subject: RE: BS: Burning Volcanic Ash
From: TIA

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.


11 Jan 06 - 09:11 PM (#1646695)
Subject: RE: BS: Burning Volcanic Ash
From: GUEST,TIA

"silicosis"

silly me says


11 Jan 06 - 09:25 PM (#1646710)
Subject: RE: BS: Burning Volcanic Ash
From: Q (Frank Staplin)

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.


11 Jan 06 - 10:37 PM (#1646761)
Subject: RE: BS: Burning Volcanic Ash
From: Metchosin

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


11 Jan 06 - 10:56 PM (#1646779)
Subject: RE: BS: Burning Volcanic Ash
From: robomatic

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.


12 Jan 06 - 01:52 AM (#1646822)
Subject: RE: BS: Burning Volcanic Ash
From: Metchosin

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.


12 Jan 06 - 09:32 AM (#1646985)
Subject: RE: BS: Burning Volcanic Ash
From: SINSULL

Pottery glaze or glazed ham????