Carbon monoxide (CO) primarily comes from the incomplete burning of carbon- containing fuels when there is insufficient oxygen to produce carbon dioxide. This incomplete combustion occurs in various settings and sources, including:
- Household sources: Fuel-burning appliances such as gas or kerosene heaters, gas stoves, furnaces, fireplaces, boilers, dryers, and ovens can produce CO if not properly maintained or ventilated
- Vehicles and engines: Cars, trucks, small gasoline engines (e.g., lawnmowers, generators), and other fuel-powered equipment emit CO through exhaust gases, especially in enclosed or poorly ventilated areas
- Industrial sources: CO is produced industrially through processes like the combustion of carbon in air (producer gas), reaction of steam with carbon (water gas), and reduction of metal oxides with carbon
- Natural sources: CO is also released naturally from wildfires, volcanic activity, photochemical degradation of plant matter, and the ocean
- Other sources: Tobacco smoke and burning of wood, charcoal, coal, propane, natural gas, oil, and biomass pellets also release CO
In summary, carbon monoxide is generated whenever carbon-based fuels burn incompletely, in homes, vehicles, industrial processes, and natural combustion events. Proper ventilation and maintenance of fuel-burning appliances are crucial to prevent CO buildup and poisoning
