ABSTRACT
A wide variation in the composition of low-grade fuels between and within sources both chemically and physically means that it is particularly difficult to burn these fuels in an efficient way. Inefficient fuel combustion is not only wasteful but leads to higher levels of pollutant emissions, particularly those compounds that are a result of incomplete oxidation such as PAHs, some of which are known carcinogens and mutagens. The information which follows provides details of methods of low-grade fuel conversion. The major pollutants and solid wastes created during fuel conversion must be controlled to protect both public health and the wellbeing of the potentially affected ecosystems. Therefore, suggestions for environmental protection at this stage of the fuel cycle such as pollutant control technologies are also given.
