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Ma Z, Fu M, Gao C, Fan S, Chi H, Li W, Hou D, Cao Y. Trenched microwave resonator integrated with porous PDMS for detection and classification of VOCs with enhanced performance. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 472:134553. [PMID: 38735191 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 04/26/2024] [Accepted: 05/04/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Microwave resonators combined with polymer absorption layers are widely used in volatile organic compound (VOC) detection based on their variable resonant frequencies. However, the response time is limited due to the polymer's slow volumetric absorption of VOC molecules. By constructing a porous structure in Polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS), resulting in reduced the response time to as short as 71.1%. To mitigate the sensitivity decline caused by the porous PDMS, a trenched-substrate complementary split-ring resonator (CSRR) is proposed for enhancing the interaction between the electromagnetic fields (EMFs) and the porous PDMS with VOCs. The removal of the substrate beneath CSRR's sensing region enhances the effective EMF, increasing frequency and amplitude sensitivities up to 175.5% and 137.8%, respectively. Responses to four common VOCs by the sensor show a maximum sensitivity of 217 Hz/ppm and a minimum limit of detection of 295 ppm. Additionally, resonant parameters and extracted lumped parameters are utilized to establish two decision-tree-based VOC classification models, achieving high accuracies of 98.71% and 99.59%, respectively. And the latter one fully utilizing responses throughout the swept band, proves superior in identifying similar substances. This sensor technology helps promote the sensitive detection and accurate classification of diverse VOCs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiang Ma
- College of Control Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Mengyao Fu
- College of Control Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Chenyang Gao
- College of Control Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Shuyu Fan
- College of Control Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Haozhen Chi
- College of Control Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Wei Li
- College of Integrated Circuit Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Posts and Telecommunications, Nanjing 210046, China
| | - Dibo Hou
- College of Control Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China
| | - Yunqi Cao
- College of Control Science and Engineering, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310027, China.
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Zhang B, Xia Z, Jiang X, Yuan Y, Yin C, Chen T. Indoor environment in relation to recurrent childhood asthma in Yancheng, China: a hospital-based case-control study. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:102212-102221. [PMID: 37665446 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-29631-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
This investigation explored the association between indoor environmental factors and childhood asthma in Yancheng, China. Asthma case (201 children with recurrent asthma) and control cohorts (242 healthy subjects) were recruited from a Traditional Chinese Medical (TCM) Hospital in Yancheng city, based on the results of an ISAAC questionnaire. Questionnaires regarding environmental risk factors were completed by the child's primary caregivers. To compare data on environmental VOCs and formaldehyde contents between asthma and control cohorts, we passively conducted a 10-day indoor and outdoor sampling. Breastfeeding was a major protective indoor environmental factor for recurrent asthma (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.368, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.216-0.627). Our analysis revealed that childhood recurrent asthma was intricately linked to a family history of asthma. Recurrent asthma was also associated with passive smoking [aOR2.115 (95%-CI 1.275-3.508)]. Analogous correlations were observed between household renovation or new furniture introduction and recurrent asthma [aOR3.129(95%-CI1.542-6.347)]. Benzene and formaldehyde were present in all examined homes. Enhanced benzene and formaldehyde concentrations were strongly evident among asthma versus control cohorts, and they were strongly correlated with augmented recurrent asthma risk. Home environment heavily regulates incidences of childhood recurrent asthma. Hence, actions against the indoor environmental risk factors described in this study may assist in the prevention of recurrent asthma among children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baoping Zhang
- Yancheng Institute of Technology, P.O. Box No. 211 Jianjun Road, Yancheng, 224051, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Zhibin Xia
- Yancheng Institute of Technology, P.O. Box No. 211 Jianjun Road, Yancheng, 224051, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Xu Jiang
- Yancheng Institute of Technology, P.O. Box No. 211 Jianjun Road, Yancheng, 224051, Jiangsu Province, China
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Intelligent Environmental Protection Equipment, Yancheng, 224051, Jiangsu Province, China
| | - Yang Yuan
- Yancheng Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Yancheng, 224001, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chuntao Yin
- Jiangsu Huanghai Ecological Environment Detection CO., Ltd., Jiangsu, 224008, China
| | - Tianming Chen
- Yancheng Institute of Technology, P.O. Box No. 211 Jianjun Road, Yancheng, 224051, Jiangsu Province, China.
- Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Intelligent Environmental Protection Equipment, Yancheng, 224051, Jiangsu Province, China.
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Singh S, Walia S. Building construction: Impact of work from home on design and material choices. MATERIALS TODAY. PROCEEDINGS 2023:S2214-7853(23)03601-5. [PMID: 38620098 PMCID: PMC10293932 DOI: 10.1016/j.matpr.2023.06.205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
Due to COVID-19 pandemic the term 'Work from home (WFH), which was earlier only a theoretical concept for many, suddenly became necessary to continue various economic activities. The communication related infrastructures are often discussed in this context and how a sudden demand for it created a new avenue for certain businesses, but one very crucial aspect without which it is difficult to perform WFH is 'suitable homes' which provide necessary requirements to operate office work. This cross-sectional study focuses on investigating the issues faced by the students and working professionals who had to suddenly start working from home due to restricted movement because of lockdown measures. The study objective was achieved by analysing the unique situation through reviewing articles published in significant property portals, annual reports of major real estate developers & builders, conducting a focus group discussion to ascertain views of construction professionals on emerging requirements of WFH, a survey using structured questionnaire consisting of open, closed, and Likert scale questions from students and working professionals was carried out to understand dweller's issues and requirements regarding WFH setup. The study findings indicate that residential dwellers working from home partially or full time are facing some common issues that require a focused approach towards design, material adaptability and a wider inclusion of Internet of things (IoT), and not just a single point solution of increasing space of existing residential unit, as indicated in annual reports of major realty players, thus the study also offers a framework which will be helpful for construction industry stakeholders in understanding the requirements of residential dwellers for performing WFH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sneh Singh
- Manipal University Jaipur, Jaipur, India
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Yang S, Muthalagu A, Serrano VG, Licina D. Human personal air pollution clouds in a naturally ventilated office during the COVID-19 pandemic. BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT 2023; 236:110280. [PMID: 37064616 PMCID: PMC10080864 DOI: 10.1016/j.buildenv.2023.110280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2022] [Revised: 03/31/2023] [Accepted: 04/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Personal cloud, termed as the difference in air pollutant concentrations between breathing zone and room sites, represents the bias in approximating personal inhalation exposure that is linked to accuracy of health risk assessment. This study performed a two-week field experiment in a naturally ventilated office during the COVID-19 pandemic to assess occupants' exposure to common air pollutants and to determine factors contributing to the personal cloud effect. During occupied periods, indoor average concentrations of endotoxin (0.09 EU/m3), TVOC (231 μg/m3), CO2 (630 ppm), and PM10 (14 μg/m3) were below the recommended limits, except for formaldehyde (58 μg/m3). Personal exposure concentrations, however, were significantly different from, and mostly higher than, concentrations measured at room stationary sampling sites. Although three participants shared the same office, their personal air pollution clouds were mutually distinct. The mean personal cloud magnitude ranged within 0-0.05 EU/m3, 35-192 μg/m3, 32-120 ppm, and 4-9 μg/m3 for endotoxin, TVOC, CO2, and PM10, respectively, and was independent from room concentrations. The use of hand sanitizer was strongly associated with an elevated personal cloud of endotoxin and alcohol-based VOCs. Reduced occupancy density in the office resulted in more pronounced personal CO2 clouds. The representativeness of room stationary sampling for capturing dynamic personal exposures was as low as 28% and 5% for CO2 and PM10, respectively. The findings of our study highlight the necessity of considering the personal cloud effect when assessing personal exposure in offices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shen Yang
- Human-Oriented Built Environment Lab, School of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Akila Muthalagu
- Human-Oriented Built Environment Lab, School of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Environmental Systems Group, Department of Civil Engineering, Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, Kandi, India
| | - Viviana González Serrano
- Human-Oriented Built Environment Lab, School of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Dusan Licina
- Human-Oriented Built Environment Lab, School of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Baeza_Romero MT, Dudzinska MR, Amouei Torkmahalleh M, Barros N, Coggins AM, Ruzgar DG, Kildsgaard I, Naseri M, Rong L, Saffell J, Scutaru AM, Staszowska A. A review of critical residential buildings parameters and activities when investigating indoor air quality and pollutants. INDOOR AIR 2022; 32:e13144. [PMID: 36437669 PMCID: PMC9828800 DOI: 10.1111/ina.13144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2022] [Revised: 09/27/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Indoor air in residential dwellings can contain a variety of chemicals, sometimes present at concentrations or in combinations which can have a negative impact on human health. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) surveys are often required to characterize human exposure or to investigate IAQ concerns and complaints. Such surveys should include sufficient contextual information to elucidate sources, pathways, and the magnitude of exposures. The aim of this review was to investigate and describe the parameters that affect IAQ in residential dwellings: building location, layout, and ventilation, finishing materials, occupant activities, and occupant demography. About 180 peer-reviewed articles, published from 01/2013 to 09/2021 (plus some important earlier publications), were reviewed. The importance of the building parameters largely depends on the study objectives and whether the focus is on a specific pollutant or to assess health risk. When considering classical pollutants such as particulate matter (PM) or volatile organic compounds (VOCs), the building parameters can have a significant impact on IAQ, and detailed information of these parameters needs to be reported in each study. Research gaps and suggestions for the future studies together with recommendation of where measurements should be done are also provided.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Teresa Baeza_Romero
- Universidad de Castilla‐La Mancha. Dpto. Química‐Física, Escuela de Ingeniería Industrial y AeroespacialToledoSpain
| | | | - Mehdi Amouei Torkmahalleh
- Division of Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences, School of Public HealthUniversity of Illinois ChicagoChicagoIllinoisUSA
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, School of Engineering and Digital SciencesNazarbayev UniversityAstanaKazakhstan
| | - Nelson Barros
- UFP Energy, Environment and Health Research Unit (FP‐ENAS)University Fernando PessoaPortoPortugal
| | - Ann Marie Coggins
- School of Natural Sciences & Ryan InstituteNational University of IrelandGalwayIreland
| | - Duygu Gazioglu Ruzgar
- School of Mechanical EngineeringPurdue UniversityWest LafayetteIndianaUSA
- Metallurgical and Materials Engineering DepartmentBursa Technical UniversityBursaTurkey
| | | | - Motahareh Naseri
- Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, School of Engineering and Digital SciencesNazarbayev UniversityAstanaKazakhstan
| | - Li Rong
- Department of Civil and Architectural EngineeringAarhus UniversityAarhus CDenmark
| | | | | | - Amelia Staszowska
- Faculty of Environmental EngineeringLublin University of TechnologyLublinPoland
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6
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Justo Alonso M, Moazami TN, Liu P, Jørgensen RB, Mathisen HM. Assessing the indoor air quality and their predictor variable in 21 home offices during the Covid-19 pandemic in Norway. BUILDING AND ENVIRONMENT 2022; 225:109580. [PMID: 36097587 PMCID: PMC9452402 DOI: 10.1016/j.buildenv.2022.109580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Revised: 08/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/02/2022] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
In this study, concentrations of pollutants: formaldehyde, carbon dioxide (CO2), and total volatile organic compounds (TVOC) and parameters: indoor room temperature and relative humidity (RH) were measured in 21 home offices for at least one week in winter in Trondheim, Norway. Eleven of these were measured again for the same duration in summer. Potentially explanatory variables of these parameters were collected, including building and renovation year, house type, building location, trickle vent status, occupancy, wood stove, floor material, pets, RH, and air temperature. The association between indoor air pollutants and their potential predictor variables was analyzed using generalized estimation equations to determine the significant parameters to control pollutants. Significantly seasonal differences in concentrations were observed for CO2 and formaldehyde, while no significant seasonal difference was observed for TVOC. For TVOC and formaldehyde, trickle vent, RH, and air temperature were among the most important predictor variables. Although higher concentrations of CO2 were measured in cases where the trickle vent was closed, the most important predictor variables for CO2 were season, RH, and indoor air temperature. The formaldehyde concentrations were higher outside working hours but mostly below health thresholds recommendations; for CO2, 11 of the measured cases had indoor concentrations exceeding 1000 ppm in 10% of the measured time. For TVOC, the concentrations were above the recommended values by WHO in 73% of the cases. RH was generally low in winter. The temperature was generally kept over the recommended level of 22-24 °C during working hours.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Justo Alonso
- Department of Energy and Process Engineering, NTNU, Kolbjørn Hejes v 1B, Trondheim, Norway
| | - T N Moazami
- Department of Industrial Economics and Technology Management, NTNU, Sem Sælands vei 5, Trondheim, Norway
| | - P Liu
- Department: Architecture, Materials and Structures SINTEF Community, Høgskoleringen 13, Trondheim, Norway
| | - R B Jørgensen
- Department of Industrial Economics and Technology Management, NTNU, Sem Sælands vei 5, Trondheim, Norway
| | - H M Mathisen
- Department of Energy and Process Engineering, NTNU, Kolbjørn Hejes v 1B, Trondheim, Norway
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7
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Halios CH, Landeg-Cox C, Lowther SD, Middleton A, Marczylo T, Dimitroulopoulou S. Chemicals in European residences - Part I: A review of emissions, concentrations and health effects of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 839:156201. [PMID: 35623519 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.156201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 05/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
One of the more important classes of potentially toxic indoor air chemicals are the Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). However, due to a limited understanding of the relationships between indoor concentrations of individual VOCs and health outcomes, there are currently no universal health-based guideline values for VOCs within Europe including the UK. In this study, a systematic search was conducted designed to capture evidence on concentrations, emissions from indoor sources, and health effects for VOCs measured in European residences. We identified 65 individual VOCs, and the most commonly measured were aromatic hydrocarbons (14 chemicals), alkane hydrocarbons (9), aldehydes (8), aliphatic hydrocarbons (5), terpenes (6), chlorinated hydrocarbons (4), glycol and glycol ethers (3) and esters (2). The pathway of interest was inhalation and 8 individual aromatic hydrocarbons, 7 alkanes and 6 aldehydes were associated with respiratory health effects. Members of the chlorinated hydrocarbon family were associated with cardiovascular neurological and carcinogenic health effects and some were irritants as were esters and terpenes. Eight individual aromatic hydrocarbons, 7 alkanes and 6 aldehydes identified in European residences were associated with respiratory health effects. Of the 65 individual VOCs, 52 were from sources associated with building and construction materials (e.g. brick, wood products, adhesives and materials for flooring installation etc.), 41 were linked with consumer products (passive, electric and combustible air fresheners, hair sprays, deodorants) and 9 VOCs were associated with space heating, which may reflect the relatively small number of studies discussing emissions from this category of sources. A clear decrease in concentrations of formaldehyde was observed over the last few years, whilst acetone was found to be one of the most abundant but underreported species. A new approach based on the operational indoor air quality surveillance will both reveal trends in known VOCs and identify new compounds.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christos H Halios
- Air Quality & Public Health Group, Environmental Hazards and Emergencies Department, Radiation, Chemicals and Environmental Hazards, Science Group, UK Health Security Agency, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Chilton, UK
| | - Charlotte Landeg-Cox
- Air Quality & Public Health Group, Environmental Hazards and Emergencies Department, Radiation, Chemicals and Environmental Hazards, Science Group, UK Health Security Agency, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Chilton, UK
| | - Scott D Lowther
- Air Quality & Public Health Group, Environmental Hazards and Emergencies Department, Radiation, Chemicals and Environmental Hazards, Science Group, UK Health Security Agency, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Chilton, UK
| | - Alice Middleton
- Air Quality & Public Health Group, Environmental Hazards and Emergencies Department, Radiation, Chemicals and Environmental Hazards, Science Group, UK Health Security Agency, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Chilton, UK
| | - Tim Marczylo
- Toxicology Department, Radiation, Chemicals and Environmental Hazards, Science Group, UK Health Security Agency, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Chilton, UK
| | - Sani Dimitroulopoulou
- Air Quality & Public Health Group, Environmental Hazards and Emergencies Department, Radiation, Chemicals and Environmental Hazards, Science Group, UK Health Security Agency, Harwell Science and Innovation Campus, Chilton, UK.
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8
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Salthammer T. TVOC - Revisited. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2022; 167:107440. [PMID: 35932535 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2022.107440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 07/24/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND TVOC (total volatile organic compounds) has been used as a sum parameter in indoor air sciences for over 40 years. In the beginning, individual VOC concentrations determined by gas chromatography were simply added together. However, several methods for calculating TVOC have become established over time. METHODS To understand the manifold definitions of TVOC, one must trace the history of indoor air sciences and analytical chemistry. Therefore, in this work, the original approaches of TVOC are searched and explained. A detailed description of the measurement methods is followed by a critical evaluation of the various TVOC values and their possible applications. The aim is to give the reader a deeper understanding of TVOC in order to use this parameter correctly and to be able to better assess published results. In addition, related sum values such as TSVOC and TVVOC are also addressed. RESULTS A milestone was the analytical definition of VOCs and TVOC in 1997. A list of VOCs that should at least be considered when calculating TVOC was also provided. This list represented the status at that time, is no longer up-to-date and is being updated by a European working group as part of a harmonization process. However, there is still confusion about the exact definition and reasonable application of TVOC. The signals of other sum parameters, measured with photoacoustics, flame ionization, photoionization or electrochemical sensors, are also often given under the term TVOC. CONCLUSIONS It was recognized early that TVOC is not a toxicologically based parameter and is therefore only suitable for a limited number of screening purposes. Consequently, TVOC cannot be used in connection with health-related and odor-related issues. Nevertheless, such references are repeatedly made, which has led to controversial scientific discussions and even court decisions in Germany about the correct and improper use of TVOC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tunga Salthammer
- Fraunhofer WKI, Department of Material Analysis and Indoor Chemistry, Bienroder Weg 54 E, 38108 Braunschweig, Germany.
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Integration of Indoor Air Quality Prediction into Healthy Building Design. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14137890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Healthy building design is an emerging field of architecture and building engineering. Indoor air quality (IAQ) is an inevitable factor that should be considered in healthy building design due to its demonstrated links with human health and well-being. This paper proposes to integrate IAQ prediction into healthy building design by developing a simulation toolbox, termed i-IAQ, using MATLAB App Designer. Within the i-IAQ, users can input information of building layout and wall-openings and select air pollutant sources from the database. As an output, the toolbox simulates indoor levels of carbon dioxide (CO2), total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), inhalable particles (PM10), fine particles (PM2.5), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone (O3) during the occupied periods. Based on the simulation results, the toolbox also offers diagnosis and recommendations to improve the design. The accuracy of the toolbox was validated by a case study in an apartment where physical measurements of air pollutants took place. The results suggest that designers can integrate the i-IAQ toolbox in building design, so that the potential IAQ issues can be resolved at the early design stage at a low cost. The paper outcomes have the potential to pave a way towards more holistic healthy building design, and novel and cost-effective IAQ management.
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Wang C, Wang J, Norbäck D. A Systematic Review of Associations between Energy Use, Fuel Poverty, Energy Efficiency Improvements and Health. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19127393. [PMID: 35742650 PMCID: PMC9223700 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19127393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Energy use in buildings can influence the indoor environment. Studies on green buildings, energy saving measures, energy use, fuel poverty, and ventilation have been reviewed, following the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. The database PubMed was searched for articles published up to 1 October 2020. In total, 68 relevant peer-reviewed epidemiological or exposure studies on radon, biological agents, and chemicals were included. The main aim was to assess current knowledge on how energy saving measures and energy use can influence health. The included studies concluded that buildings classified as green buildings can improve health. More efficient heating and increased thermal insulation can improve health in homes experiencing fuel poverty. However, energy-saving measures in airtight buildings and thermal insulation without installation of mechanical ventilation can impair health. Energy efficiency retrofits can increase indoor radon which can cause lung cancer. Installation of a mechanical ventilation systems can solve many of the negative effects linked to airtight buildings and energy efficiency retrofits. However, higher ventilation flow can increase the indoor exposure to outdoor air pollutants in areas with high levels of outdoor air pollution. Finally, future research needs concerning energy aspects of buildings and health were identified.
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11
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Latest Trends in Pollutant Accumulations at Threatening Levels in Energy-Efficient Residential Buildings with and without Mechanical Ventilation: A Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19063538. [PMID: 35329223 PMCID: PMC8951331 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19063538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Revised: 02/03/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022]
Abstract
Improving the energy efficiency of buildings is a major target in developed countries toward decreasing their energy consumption and CO2 emissions. To meet this target, a large number of countries have established energy codes that require buildings to be airtight. While such a retrofitting approach has improved health outcomes in areas with heavy traffic, it has worsened the health outcomes in Nordic countries and increased the risk of lung cancer in areas with high levels of radon emissions. This review highlights the importance of adapting the characteristics of energy-efficient residential buildings to the location, age, and health of inhabitants to guarantee healthy indoor pollutant levels. The implementation of mechanical ventilation in new energy-efficient buildings has solved some of these problems; however, for others, a decrease in the level of outdoor pollutants was still required in order to achieve a good indoor air quality. A good balance between the air exchange rate and the air humidity level (adapted to the location) is key to ensuring that exposure to the various pollutants that accumulate inside energy-efficient buildings is low enough to avoid affecting inhabitants′ health. Evidence of the protective effect of mechanical ventilation should be sought in dwellings where natural ventilation allows pollutants to accumulate to threatening levels. More studies should be carried out in African and Asian countries, which, due to their rapid urbanization, use massive volumes of unproven/unrated building materials for fast-track construction, which are frequent sources of formaldehyde and VOC emissions.
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12
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González Serrano V, Licina D. Longitudinal assessment of personal air pollution clouds in ten home and office environments. INDOOR AIR 2022; 32:e12993. [PMID: 35225383 DOI: 10.1111/ina.12993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Elevated exposure to indoor air pollution is associated with negative human health and well-being outcomes. Inhalation exposure studies commonly rely on stationary monitors in combination with human time-activity patterns; however, this method is susceptible to exposure misclassification. We tracked ten participants during five consecutive workdays with stationary air pollutant monitors at their homes and offices, and wearable personal monitors. Real-time measures of size-resolved particulate matter (within range 0.3-10 μm) and CO2 , and integrated samples of PM10 , VOCs, and aldehydes were collected. The PM10 cloud magnitude (excess of PM10 beyond stationary room concentration) was detected for all participants in homes and offices. The PM10 cloud magnitude ranged within 5-37 μg/m3 and was the most discernible in the coarse particle size fraction. Particles associated with "Urban mix," "Traffic," and "Human activities" sources contributed the most to PM10 exposures. The personal CO2 clouds were detected for participants with the SEMs in their living rooms and private or low-occupancy offices. The stationary monitors placed in bedrooms were better predictors of personal PM10 and CO2 exposures. An overall of 33 VOCs and aldehydes were detected in both microenvironments, with the majority exhibiting high correlation between personal and stationary stations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viviana González Serrano
- Human-Oriented Built Environment Lab, School of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Dusan Licina
- Human-Oriented Built Environment Lab, School of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
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13
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A Review of Field Measurement Studies on Thermal Comfort, Indoor Air Quality and Virus Risk. ATMOSPHERE 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/atmos13020191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
People spend up to 90% of their time indoors where they continuously interact with the indoor environment. Indoor Environmental Quality (IEQ), and in particular thermal comfort, Indoor Air Quality (IAQ), and acoustic and visual comfort, have proven to be significant factors that influence the occupants’ health, comfort, productivity and general well-being. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has also highlighted the need for real-life experimental data acquired through field measurement studies to help us understand and potentially control the impact of IEQ on the occupants’ health. In this context, there was a significant increase over the past two decades of field measurement studies conducted all over the world that analyse the IEQ in various indoor environments. In this study, an overview of the most important factors that influence the IAQ, thermal comfort, and the risk of virus transmission is first presented, followed by a comprehensive review of selected field measurement studies from the last 20 years. The main objective is to provide a broad overview of the current status of field measurement studies, to identify key characteristics, common outcomes, correlations, insights, as well as gaps, and to serve as the starting point for conducting future field measurement studies.
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Yang S, Licina D, Weschler CJ, Wang N, Zannoni N, Li M, Vanhanen J, Langer S, Wargocki P, Williams J, Bekö G. Ozone Initiates Human-Derived Emission of Nanocluster Aerosols. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:14536-14545. [PMID: 34672572 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.1c03379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Nanocluster aerosols (NCAs, particles <3 nm) are important players in driving climate feedbacks and processes that impact human health. This study reports, for the first time, NCA formation when gas-phase ozone reacts with human surfaces. In an occupied climate-controlled chamber, we detected NCA only when ozone was present. NCA emissions were dependent on clothing coverage, occupant age, air temperature, and humidity. Ozone-initiated chemistry with human skin lipids (particularly their primary surface reaction products) is the key mechanism driving NCA emissions, as evidenced by positive correlations with squalene in human skin wipe samples and known gaseous products from ozonolysis of skin lipids. Oxidation by OH radicals, autoxidation reactions, and human-emitted NH3 may also play a role in NCA formation. Such chemical processes are anticipated to generate aerosols of the smallest size (1.18-1.55 nm), whereas larger clusters result from subsequent growth of the smaller aerosols. This study shows that whenever we encounter ozone indoors, where we spend most of our lives, NCAs will be produced in the air around us.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shen Yang
- Human-Oriented Built Environment Lab, School of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne 1015, Switzerland
| | - Dusan Licina
- Human-Oriented Built Environment Lab, School of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne 1015, Switzerland
| | - Charles J Weschler
- International Centre for Indoor Environment and Energy, Department of Civil Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby 2800, Denmark
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey 08854, United States
| | - Nijing Wang
- Max Planck Institute for Chemistry, Hahn-Meitner Weg 1, Mainz 55128, Germany
| | - Nora Zannoni
- Max Planck Institute for Chemistry, Hahn-Meitner Weg 1, Mainz 55128, Germany
| | - Mengze Li
- Max Planck Institute for Chemistry, Hahn-Meitner Weg 1, Mainz 55128, Germany
| | - Joonas Vanhanen
- Airmodus Limited, Erik Palménin Aukio 1, Helsinki FI-00560, Finland
| | - Sarka Langer
- IVL Swedish Environmental Research Institute, Göteborg SE-400 14, Sweden
- Department of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Division of Building Services Engineering, Chalmers University of Technology, Göteborg SE-412 96, Sweden
| | - Pawel Wargocki
- International Centre for Indoor Environment and Energy, Department of Civil Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby 2800, Denmark
| | - Jonathan Williams
- Max Planck Institute for Chemistry, Hahn-Meitner Weg 1, Mainz 55128, Germany
- Energy, Environment and Water Research Center, The Cyprus Institute, Nicosia 2121, Cyprus
| | - Gabriel Bekö
- International Centre for Indoor Environment and Energy, Department of Civil Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Kongens Lyngby 2800, Denmark
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Shen G, Ainiwaer S, Zhu Y, Zheng S, Hou W, Shen H, Chen Y, Wang X, Cheng H, Tao S. Quantifying source contributions for indoor CO 2 and gas pollutants based on the highly resolved sensor data. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 267:115493. [PMID: 33254594 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2020] [Revised: 08/16/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2020] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Household air pollution is the dominant contributor to population air pollutant exposure, but it is often of less concern compared with ambient air pollution. One of the major knowledge gaps in this field are detailed quantitative source contributions of indoor pollutants, especially for gaseous compounds. In this study, temporally, spatially, and vertically resolved monitoring for typical indoor gases including CO2, CO, formaldehyde, methane, and the total volatile organic compounds (VOCs) was conducted to address pollution dynamics and major sources in an urban apartment. The indoor concentrations were significantly higher than the simultaneously measured outdoor concentrations. A new statistic approach was proposed to quantitatively estimate contributions of different sources. It was estimated that outdoor CO2 contributed largely to the indoor CO2, while main indoor sources were human metabolism and cooking. Outdoor infiltration and cooking contributed almost equally to the indoor CO. The contribution of outdoor infiltration to methane was much higher than that to formaldehyde. Cooking contributed to 24%, 19%, and 25% of indoor formaldehyde, methane, and VOCs, whereas the other unresolved indoor sources contributed 61%, 19%, and 35% of these pollutants, respectively. Vertical measurements showed that the uplifting of hot air masses led to relatively high concentrations of the pollutants in the upper layer of the kitchen and in the other rooms to a lesser extent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guofeng Shen
- College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, Sino-French Institute for Earth System Science, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Subinuer Ainiwaer
- College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, Sino-French Institute for Earth System Science, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Yaqi Zhu
- College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, Sino-French Institute for Earth System Science, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Shuxiu Zheng
- College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, Sino-French Institute for Earth System Science, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Weiying Hou
- College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, Sino-French Institute for Earth System Science, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Huizhong Shen
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, 30332, USA
| | - Yilin Chen
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, 30332, USA
| | - Xilong Wang
- College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, Sino-French Institute for Earth System Science, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Hefa Cheng
- College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, Sino-French Institute for Earth System Science, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Shu Tao
- College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, Sino-French Institute for Earth System Science, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China.
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Niculita-Hirzel H, Yang S, Hager Jörin C, Perret V, Licina D, Goyette Pernot J. Fungal Contaminants in Energy Efficient Dwellings: Impact of Ventilation Type and Level of Urbanization. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17144936. [PMID: 32650626 PMCID: PMC7400204 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17144936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2020] [Revised: 06/30/2020] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The presence of growing fungi in the indoor environment has been associated with the development of respiratory problems such as asthma or allergic rhinitis, as well as the worsening of respiratory pathologies. Their proliferation indoors could be a result of water leakage or inadequate ventilation. Although the factors promoting mould growth have been widely investigated in traditional dwellings, little work has been done in energy efficient dwellings. Here, the effectiveness of ventilation type, i.e., natural or mechanical, in influencing mould development was estimated in 44 recent and 105 retrofitted energy efficient dwellings. Fungi growing on surfaces were investigated in the dwellings situated in rural, peri-urban, and urban regions of Switzerland. The presence of these fungi was also investigated in bedroom settled dust. Information on building characteristics and owners' lifestyle were collected. Significant associations were found with the level of urbanisation, the location of mouldy area in dwellings, and the diversity of fungal taxa. Dwellings in peri-urban zones showed the most frequent fungal contamination in the owners' bedroom and the highest diversity of fungal genera among dwellings. While the urbanisation level or the ventilation type favoured no specific genus, we found marked disparities in the diversity of fungi growing on surfaces in naturally ventilated versus mechanically ventilated dwellings. Aspergillus, in particular, was a frequent surface contaminant in bedrooms with natural ventilation, but not in those mechanically ventilated. We observed a strong association between fungal growth on surfaces and the number of fungal particles counted in the settled dust of owners' bedrooms. These results demonstrate the importance of ventilation systems in energy efficient dwellings in controlling fungal proliferation in living areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hélène Niculita-Hirzel
- Department of Occupational Health and Environment, Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), University of Lausanne, CH-1066 Epalinges, Switzerland
- Correspondence:
| | - Shen Yang
- Human-Oriented Built Environment Lab, School of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; (S.Y.); (D.L.)
| | - Corinne Hager Jörin
- HumanTech Institute, School of Engineering and Architecture of Fribourg, HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland;
| | | | - Dusan Licina
- Human-Oriented Built Environment Lab, School of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, CH-1015 Lausanne, Switzerland; (S.Y.); (D.L.)
| | - Joëlle Goyette Pernot
- Transform Institute, School of Engineering and Architecture of Fribourg, HES-SO University of Applied Sciences and Arts Western Switzerland, CH-1700 Fribourg, Switzerland;
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