For a new study, researchers at the University of Eastern Finland have developed a device that can capture these fine particles. Known as a high-temperature electric soot collector (HiTESC), the system is made up of a high-voltage electrode that generates an electric field. This is installed in the combustion chamber of a wood-fired stove or heater, where it attracts charged particles produced by the flames. These settle onto the surface of the electrode, where they are then oxidized at high temperatures.

The team tested the system in a masonry heater, comparing particle emissions from days with the HiTESC device running to those with it switched off. They found that HiTESC had a reduction efficiency of 45 percent, for very fine particles of 1 micrometer wide (PM1).

The technology is currently being commercialized by a start-up called Noeton.