Maya Ellison
Wildfires can emit a range of smells, from the familiar scent of burning wood to something akin to burning plastic. This unusual smell is caused by volatile organic compounds released when biomass (trees, branches, and leaves) burns. The intensity of the odour depends on the concentration of these compounds in the air. When exposed to sunlight and UV rays, these compounds can react to form toxic chemicals like benzene and formaldehyde, which are Group 1 carcinogens and can cause serious health issues.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reason for the smell of burning plastic | The chemical reaction between UV rays and smoke compounds, leading to the formation of benzene and formaldehyde |
| Source of the smell | Wildfires, electrical fires, industrial activity, or burning yard debris |
| Health risks | Irritation of the eyes and throat, drowsiness, headaches, and a rapid heart rate |
| Precautions | Stay indoors, wear a mask, and keep windows and doors closed |
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What You'll Learn
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted by burning biomass
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are gases emitted when trees, branches, and leaves (biomass) burn in wildfires. Some VOCs react quickly to create the typical smell of smoke from a campfire. However, certain VOCs are stable enough to travel long distances downwind. These stable VOCs include benzene and formaldehyde, which are Group 1 carcinogens. The presence of these compounds in persistent wildfire smoke suggests that it could become more toxic over time.
The emission of VOCs from biomass burning poses significant challenges to air quality and human health. For example, the atmospheric transformation of VOCs in urban environments can lead to the formation of pollutants in poorly ventilated areas. This has been observed in Ioannina, Greece, where high wood-burning activity during winter results in intense atmospheric pollution accumulation.
Positive matrix factorisation (PMF) analysis revealed that biomass burning was the dominant emission source, contributing over 50% of OH reactivity. This indicates the presence of exceptionally reactive VOCs, which can lead to the formation of ozone and organic acids. The secondary formation of these pollutants underscores the need to transition from wood-burning to environmentally friendly energy sources in urban areas with poor ventilation.
The relative magnitude and composition of VOC emissions vary depending on the fuel type. For example, a study found that wheat straw burning emitted almost twice as many VOCs as other biomass varieties, such as rice, bean, and rapeseed residues. Additionally, ambient air measurements of emissions from wildfires, such as the Fourmile Canyon Fire in Colorado, have helped identify promising biomass burning markers, including benzofuran, 2-furaldehyde, and benzonitrile.
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Chemical reactions between UV rays and smoke compounds
Forest fires emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) when trees, branches, and leaves are burned. Some of these compounds react quickly to create the typical smell of smoke. However, other compounds are more stable and can travel long distances without breaking down. Aromatic hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides, both present in forest fire smoke, can absorb UV light and break down into other chemicals. This process can alter the smoke's original components and create new ones, known as secondary organic aerosols. These secondary aerosols are more soluble in the bloodstream and can lead to higher levels of cell death.
The specific chemical reactions involved depend on the type of biomass burning and the environmental conditions. For example, a research team from the University of Georgia compared the effects of fresh and aged smoke from three different types of wood common in southeastern US wildfires: pin oak, pignut hickory, and slash pine. They found that fresh smoke disrupted the way cells store and use energy, while aged smoke had higher concentrations of oxygenated compounds that led to increased cell death.
The toxicity of wildfire smoke can also change as it moves through the atmosphere. Sunlight spurs chemical reactions that transform the smoke's original components, potentially making the smoke more toxic over time. This process is known as "chemical cooking," and it can alter the routes that different aerosols take through the body once they are inhaled.
While the smell of burning plastic may be due to the presence of actual plastic burning in the fire, it is also possible that the UV light from the sun is causing unexpected reactions in the VOCs emitted by the fire, creating new compounds that smell like burning plastic.
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Potential presence of burning plastic in the area
The smell of burning plastic during a forest fire could indicate the potential presence of burning plastic in the area. This may be due to the burning of plastic items alongside the forest, such as plastic outdoor furniture or equipment. Additionally, electrical fires can result from damaged outdoor lighting systems or faulty electrical equipment, releasing a burnt plastic smell due to melting insulation.
In certain cases, the source of the plastic smell may not be directly related to the forest fire but could be a result of other factors in the area. For instance, electrical issues, such as malfunctioning transformers on utility poles, can emit a burning plastic-like odour when the oils and plastic components inside overheat. Similarly, fires in industrial areas or the burning of yard debris can also produce a plastic-like smell.
The presence of toxic chemicals in the smoke, such as benzene and formaldehyde, can further irritate the eyes and throat, posing potential long-term health risks. Therefore, it is essential to take precautions, such as staying indoors, wearing masks, and keeping windows and doors closed, to minimize the inhalation of harmful particles.
While the smell of burning plastic can be concerning, it is important to stay vigilant and take the necessary steps to ensure your safety and well-being during a forest fire or periods of poor air quality.
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Toxic chemicals in the smoke
Forest fires emit a mixture of gaseous pollutants, hazardous air pollutants, water vapour, and particle pollution. The particles and chemicals in smoke vary depending on what is burning, the temperature, and the amount of oxygen available.
The smoke from forest fires contains thousands of individual compounds, including carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), carbon dioxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides. The most prevalent pollutant by mass is particulate matter less than 2.5 micrometres in diameter, which is roughly 50 times smaller than a grain of sand. These fine particles can travel deeply into the respiratory tract, reaching the lungs and causing respiratory irritation and shortness of breath. They can also worsen medical conditions such as asthma and heart disease.
In addition to the particles and chemicals commonly found in smoke, forest fires can also release toxic chemicals such as benzene and formaldehyde, which are Group 1 carcinogens. These longer-surviving compounds can make the smoke more toxic over time. Other toxic chemicals that may be present in forest fire smoke include lead and other metals, phosgene, and hydrogen chloride.
The health effects of exposure to forest fire smoke can vary from immediate to long-term. Inhaling smoke can cause immediate irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat, as well as nausea due to the odour. More serious immediate effects include temporary changes in lung function, making breathing more difficult, and changes in heart function. Long-term exposure to forest fire smoke has been linked to an increased risk of lung damage, cardiovascular problems, and cancer.
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Health risks and precautions
Forest fires emit smoke that contains a mixture of air pollutants that are harmful to human health. These pollutants include volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as benzene and formaldehyde, which are Group 1 carcinogens known to cause cancer. The health effects of exposure to forest fire smoke range from less serious symptoms such as coughing and a runny nose, to more severe consequences such as respiratory issues, cardiovascular problems, and even premature death. People with pre-existing respiratory conditions, asthma, COPD, heart or lung conditions, children, pregnant women, and the elderly are especially vulnerable to the health risks associated with forest fire smoke inhalation.
To reduce exposure to forest fire smoke and minimize potential health risks, it is recommended to stay indoors as much as possible during a forest fire and create a fire-resistant zone around your home. Keep windows and doors closed, and use a portable air purifier to minimize indoor pollution levels. If you must go outside or evacuate to a safer location, wear protective clothing, including long sleeves, long pants, gloves, and sturdy shoes. Utilize an N95 respirator mask to limit smoke inhalation, as masks can filter out harmful particles and gases present in the smoke. Keep your cell phone charged and pay attention to emergency alerts and notifications for updates and instructions from local authorities.
Additionally, avoid hot ash, charred trees, smoldering debris, and live embers, as the ground may contain heat pockets that can cause burns or spark new fires. Be cautious when handling flammable or combustible household products, such as aerosols, cooking oils, rubbing alcohol, and hand sanitizers. Keep your insurance policies and personal documents up to date, and have a plan for evacuation, including multiple escape routes from your home and community. Gather food, water, medicine, and other essential supplies in advance, as stores and pharmacies may be closed during an emergency.
To prepare for potential wildfires, it is crucial to monitor weather conditions and stay informed about fires in your area. Download relevant apps, such as the FEMA app, to receive real-time alerts, and sign up for community alerts and the Emergency Alert System (EAS). Learning first aid and CPR can also help ensure the safety and well-being of your household and community during a wildfire or other emergency situations.
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Frequently asked questions
Forest fires smell like burning plastic due to the chemical reactions between UV rays and smoke compounds, leading to the formation of toxic chemicals like benzene and formaldehyde.
When trees, branches, and leaves burn in forest fires, they emit gases called volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These VOCs react with UV rays to form other chemicals.
Benzene and formaldehyde are Group 1 carcinogens, which means there is sufficient evidence that they cause cancer. Inhalation may also irritate the eyes and throat, cause drowsiness, headaches, and a rapid heart rate.
It is essential to act promptly to ensure safety. Determine if the smell is accompanied by visible smoke, fire, or other signs of danger. Limit outdoor activities and monitor updates from local authorities or air quality tools. Take precautions to minimize inhalation by wearing masks and staying indoors.
Electrical fires in power lines, transformers, or external wiring may emit a burning plastic smell due to melting insulation. Outdoor appliances like electric grills, pool equipment, or power tools may also release this odour when they overheat and their plastic components melt.
