Characterization factors are applied to convert an LCI analysis result to the common unit of category indicator and Environmental mechanism is a system of physical, chemical and biological processes for a given impact category, linking the LCI analysis results to category indicators. I am unable to clearly distinguish between the two.
If I have interpreted your question correct, environmental mechanism is the description on WHAT is the fate of various emissions. The characterisation is a mathematical representation of that mechanism telling us HOW MUCH a specific emission contributes to a specific impact category in relation to other substances/emissions. I also recommend teh web link posted by J.R. Garnage above.
You could find an answer in this document (if you haven't referred so far) which gives a detailed descriptions related to impact categories and characterisation. Thank you.
https://www.leidenuniv.nl/cml/ssp/publications/recipe_characterisation.pdf
If I have interpreted your question correct, environmental mechanism is the description on WHAT is the fate of various emissions. The characterisation is a mathematical representation of that mechanism telling us HOW MUCH a specific emission contributes to a specific impact category in relation to other substances/emissions. I also recommend teh web link posted by J.R. Garnage above.
You could check manual deliverables of LCA software for help. In addition to that you could refer to ISO related to LCA. References on the above mentioned may be found through my profile page. Check my published work.
- Badges
- Science topic