Emission factors for aerial pyrotechnics and use in assessing environmental impact of firework displays : case study from Malta

Abstract

The measurement of emission factors for PM10 for different aerial (display) firework devices, namely, flash crackers, stars, blast charges, and fuse matches as produced in Malta are reported herein. Additionally, the content in fireworks-generated PM10 of Al, Ba, Cu, Sr, and Sb is determined. PM10 values were as follows in kg per kg composition: blast charges 0.054; flash crackers 0.43; stars 0.175 (red); 0.176 (blue); 0.254 (green); 0.123 (white); fuse matches 0.204. The metal content in PM10 from fireworks (in kg per kg composition) depends on the type of device burnt, with green stars producing Ba at 0.0553, blue stars Cu at 0.0123, and red stars Sr at 0.0057. White stars and flash crackers containing Sb2S3 produce Sb at 0.0395 and 0.1083 kg per kg composition, respectively. We used these emission factors and trade information on chemicals used for the manufacture of pyrotechnics in Malta to estimate the total load of PM10 and associated metalliferous content released to the atmosphere from aerial fireworks displays. In 2007, PM10 emissions amounted to about 37 t and metal loads (in kg) were Al (2193), Ba (1161), Sb (504), Cu (331), and Sr (142). The data and modeling approach presented herein illustrates a general methodology for the assessment of environmental risk from display fireworks especially when more specific information is unavailable.