Carbon monoxide (CO) is a common air pollutant and a highly poisonous gas. It is often called the “silent killer” because it is colourless and odourless, making it very difficult to detect.
Why is Carbon Monoxide Poisonous?
Haemoglobin is a red compound in our blood. It absorbs oxygen from our lungs to form oxyhaemoglobin, which carries the oxygen through our body.
However, carbon monoxide binds to haemoglobin much more strongly than oxygen does, forming carboxyhaemoglobin.
Carbon monoxide reduces the ability of the haemoglobin to transport oxygen to the rest of the body. Our body will be deprived of the essential gas.
Health Effects:
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Breathing difficulties
- In high concentrations → unconsciousness and death
Sources of carbon monoxide
Carbon monoxide exists naturally in the air, from the result of forest fires.
However, large portion of it comes from incomplete combustion of carbon containing substances (charcoal, wood, petrol).
Incomplete combustion is a result of insufficient oxygen available for burning.
Main sources include:
- Vehicle exhaust fumes
- Faulty gas heaters or stoves
- Burning charcoal in poorly ventilated areas
- Cigarette smoke
- Forest fires (natural source)
How to Reduce Carbon Monoxide Pollution
One of the most effective ways to reduce carbon monoxide emissions from vehicles is by fitting them with catalytic converters.
Catalytic converters convert harmful carbon monoxide (CO) into less harmful carbon dioxide (CO₂) through complete combustion reactions.
Other ways to reduce exposure:
- Ensure proper ventilation when using fuel-burning appliances
- Regular servicing of gas heaters and stoves
- Avoid burning charcoal indoors
Summary
Carbon monoxide is a colourless, odourless, and highly toxic gas produced by incomplete combustion. It is dangerous because it binds strongly to haemoglobin, preventing oxygen transport in the body. The use of catalytic converters in vehicles helps reduce carbon monoxide emissions into the atmosphere.
