Generation of biologically active substances in a natural gas flame.

Samples of gaseous and solid species taken from the central axis of a 1 megawatt heat-input natural gas flame were tested in vitro for mutagenic activity and teratogenic potential. Mutagenicity was determined by a Salmonella typhimurium forward mutation assay. Potential teratogenicity was indicated by the ability of samples to interfere with the attachment of mammalian cells to a lectin coated surface. Both the mutagenic and anti-attachment activities were found to peak in samples originating from the flame regions where the total polyaromatic compound (PAC) species concentration reached a maximum, indicating a strong correlation between PAC presence in the samples and biological activity. Additional anti-attachment activity was found close to the injection nozzle. No biologically active material was detected beyond the luminous portion of the flame.