Abstract: An artificial firelog is provided comprising combustible cellulosic material, a combustible wax binder and an amount of sodium bicarbonate effective to reduce emissions of particulate matter (PM) and carbon monoxide (CO). The sodium bicarbonate comprises about 1% to about 10% by weight of the artificial firelog. Preferably, the sodium bicarbonate comprises about 2% to about 5% by weight of the artificial firelog. Besides substantially reducing PM and CO emissions during combustion of the artificial firelog, the undesirable odor associated with combustion of the wax binder is decreased and the firelog's total burn time is extended. Moreover, the sodium bicarbonate increases the “poke resistance” of the firelog making the log suitable for outdoor use and a natural appearing white ash develops during the course of combustion.

Abstract: Solid combustible agent for disaggregating soot and tarry deposits in chimney flues, said agent comprising an aggregate of cellulosic particulate material, chemical and/or catalytic soot disaggregating agent and binder. This agent is preferably used alone, i.e. in the substantial absence of an already ignited fire, when combusted to treat the flue.

Abstract: A process is disclosed for manufacturing solid fuel which includes the steps of mixing a biomass, a heavy hydrocarbon and a sorbent to form a hydrocarbon-biomass slurry, the biomass being characterized by a particle size and distribution of about 50% between about 250-2000 .mu.m and about 50% less than about 250 .mu.m, and more preferably as follows:______________________________________ distribution particle size ______________________________________ 10-20% 1250-2000 .mu.m 10-20% 500-1250 .mu.m 10-20% 250-500 .mu.m balance .ltoreq.250 .mu.m ______________________________________compacting the slurry to form a solid fuel agglomerate; and baking the agglomerate so as to form a solid fuel briquette having a resistance to compression of at least about 22 kg/cm.sup.2. The mixing step includes the step of mixing the biomass, hydrocarbon and sorbent in the following proportions, by weight: ______________________________________ biomass 50-70%; hydrocarbon 30-45%; and sorbent 5-10%.

Abstract: A process is disclosed for manufacturing solid fuel which includes the steps of mixing a biomass, a heavy hydrocarbon and a sorbent to form a hydrocarbon-biomass slurry, the biomass being characterized by a particle size and distribution of about 50% between about 250-2000 .mu.m and about 50% less than about 250 .mu.m, and more preferably as follows:______________________________________ distribution particle size ______________________________________ 10-20% 1250-2000 .mu.m 10-20% 500-1250 .mu.m 10-20% 250-500 .mu.m balance .ltoreq.250 .mu.m ______________________________________compacting the slurry to form a solid fuel agglomerate; and baking the agglomerate so as to form a solid fuel briquette having a resistance to compression of at least about 22 kg/cm.sup.2. The mixing step includes the step of mixing the biomass, hydrocarbon and sorbent in the following proportions, by weight: ______________________________________ biomass 50-70%; hydrocarbon 30-45%; and sorbent 5-10%.