Main indoor air pollutants: Difference between revisions

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== Indoor air chemical pollutants ==
== Gases ==
 
=== Inorganic gases ===
Inorganic gaseous air pollutants are a significant group of air contaminants that lack carbon-hydrogen bonds, distinguishing them from organic pollutants.
 
These gases, including ozone (O3), sulfur dioxide (SO<sub>2</sub>), nitrogen dioxide (NO<sub>2</sub>), and carbon monoxide (CO), originate from various sources such as vehicle emissions, industrial processes, and natural occurrences like volcanic eruptions.
 
=== Organic gases ===
Organic gaseous compounds can be categorized based on their boiling points, which directly relate to their volatility - their tendency to evaporate at room temperature. This causes their different behaviour in indoor air. Also, the health effects can vary depending on the specific compound and its volatility.


==== Very volatile organic compounds ====
==== Very volatile organic compounds ====
[[Very volatile organic compounds]] (VVOCs)
Very volatile organic compounds (VVOCs) are gases at room temperature and very easily evaporate.
 
Examples:
 
* Formaldehyde (although some sources classify it as a VOC)
* Methane
* Butane
* Propane
* Freons (e.g., chlorodifluoromethane)


==== Volatile organic compounds ====
==== Volatile organic compounds ====
[[Volatile organic compounds]] (VOCs) are a large group of chemicals that easily become gases or vapors at room temperature. They are found in many common household products and building materials, and they can have a significant impact on indoor air quality (IAQ).
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are a large group of chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature and are the most commonly referred to group when discussing VOCs in indoor air. VOCs are also mainly gases but they may condense on colder surfaces.
 
They are found in many common household products and building materials, and they can have a significant impact on indoor air quality (IAQ).
 
Examples:
 
* Benzene
* Toluene
* Xylene
* Acetone
* Ethanol
* Isopropanol
* Many components of fragrances and cleaning products


==== Semi-volatile organic compounds ====
==== Semi-volatile organic compounds ====
[[Semi-volatile organic compounds]] (SVOCs)
Semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) have lower volatility than VOCs and tend to exist both in the gas phase and adsorbed onto surfaces or particles (like dust).
 
Examples:
 
* Phthalates (plasticizers)
* Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) - mostly phased out but can be found in older buildings
* Polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)
* Some pesticides
* Flame retardants (PBDEs)
 
=== Radon ===
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. It is formed from the decay of uranium, which is found in rocks and soil throughout the world.
 
Radon gas can seep into homes and buildings through cracks and openings in the foundation, floors, and walls. It can also be released from building materials that contain radium.


== Indoor air particles ==
== Indoor air particles ==
[[Particulate matter|'''Particulate matter''']] (PM) is a mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets suspended in the air. These particles vary in size, composition, and origin, and their effects on human health depend on these characteristics.
Particulate matter (PM) is a mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets suspended in the air. These particles vary in size, composition, and origin, and their effects on human health depend on these characteristics.


PM is classified by its aerodynamic diameter, which is the size of a unit-density sphere with the same aerodynamic properties as the particle.
PM is classified by its aerodynamic diameter, which is the size of a unit-density sphere with the same aerodynamic properties as the particle.
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==== Ultrafine particles (PM<sub>0.1</sub> ) ====
==== Ultrafine particles (PM<sub>0.1</sub> ) ====
[[Ultrafine particles]] (UFP) are a subset of particulate matter with a diameter of less than 0.1 micrometers. Due to their extremely small size, UFP can penetrate deep into the lungs and potentially enter the bloodstream, raising concerns about their health effects.
Ultrafine particles (UFP) are a subset of particulate matter with a diameter of less than 0.1 micrometers. Due to their extremely small size, UFP can penetrate deep into the lungs and potentially enter the bloodstream, raising concerns about their health effects.


== Sources of indoor air pollutants ==
== Biological agents ==
Indoor air pollutants can originate from various sources, both inside and outside the building. These pollutants can be either anthropogenic (caused by human activities) or natural.
This category encompasses living organisms and their byproducts that can negatively affect indoor air quality.


=== Combustion sources ===
==== Mold and Fungi ====
Combustion processes, such as those from gas stoves, fireplaces, and smoking, release various pollutants into the air:
These microorganisms thrive in damp or humid indoor environments and can release mycotoxins, which can have carcinogenic, immunotoxic, cytotoxic, and mutagenic effects.


* Carbon Monoxide (CO)
==== Bacteria ====
* Nitrogen Dioxide (NO2)
Similar to mold, bacteria can grow in damp conditions and cause health issues.
* Particulate Matter (PM<sub>2.5</sub> and PM<sub>10</sub>)
* Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)


=== Building Materials and Furnishings ===
==== Viruses ====
Many building materials and furnishings can emit VOCs, including:
These can be transmitted through the air, especially in poorly ventilated spaces.


* Paints and varnishes: These often contain solvents that release VOCs as they dry.
==== Allergens ====
* Adhesives and sealants: Used in construction and renovations, these can emit VOCs for extended periods.
These substances can trigger the immune system, causing allergic reactions. Common indoor allergens include dust mites, pet dander, and pollen.
* Carpets and flooring: Some carpets and flooring materials can release VOCs, especially when new.
* Furniture: Certain types of furniture, particularly those made with pressed wood products, can emit formaldehyde, a type of VOC.
 
=== Household Products ===
A wide range of household products can contribute to indoor air pollution:
 
* Cleaning products
* Personal care products
* Pesticides and insecticides
 
=== Biological Sources ===
Biological pollutants are living organisms or substances derived from them that can cause health problems:
 
* Mold: Mold spores can trigger allergies and respiratory problems. Mold growth is often associated with dampness and poor ventilation.
* Bacteria and Viruses: These can cause infections and illnesses.
* Dust Mites: Microscopic creatures that feed on dead skin cells and can trigger allergies and asthma.
* Pet Dander: Tiny flakes of skin shed by pets that can cause allergies.
 
=== Indoor activities ===
 
* Cooking: Cooking activities can release PM, VOCs, and other pollutants into the air.
* Personal Activities: Smoking, using hobby materials, and even breathing can contribute to indoor air pollution.
 
=== Outdoor environment ===
 
* Radon: A naturally occurring radioactive gas that can seep into buildings from the ground and is a leading cause of lung cancer.


== Concentration limit values for main air pollutants ==
== Concentration limit values for main air pollutants ==
{| class="wikitable"
{| class="wikitable"
|+
|+
!
!Categorization
!Pollutant
!Pollutant
!Averaging period
!Averaging period
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!Reference
!Reference
|-
|-
| rowspan="6" |Organic air pollutants
| rowspan="6" |Organic gases
|[[Benzene]]
|[[Benzene]]
| -
| -
| colspan="2" |no safe level
| colspan="2" |no safe level
|WHO 2010
|WHO 2010 <ref name="WHO_2010"></ref>
|-
|-
|[[Naphthalene]]
|[[Naphthalene]]
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|10
|10
|μg/m<sup>3</sup>
|μg/m<sup>3</sup>
|WHO 2010
|WHO 2010 <ref name="WHO_2010"></ref>
|-
|-
|[[Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons]]
|[[Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons]]
|
|
| colspan="2" |no safe level
| colspan="2" |no safe level
|WHO 2010
|WHO 2010 <ref name="WHO_2010"></ref>
|-
|-
|[[Tetrachloroethylene]]
|[[Tetrachloroethylene]]
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|250
|250
|μg/m<sup>3</sup>
|μg/m<sup>3</sup>
|WHO 2010
|WHO 2010 <ref name="WHO_2010"></ref>
|-
|-
|[[Trichloroethylene]]
|[[Trichloroethylene]]
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|
|
|
|
|WHO 2010
|WHO 2010 <ref name="WHO_2010"></ref>
|-
|-
|Formaldehyde
|Formaldehyde
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|100
|100
|μg/m<sup>3</sup>
|μg/m<sup>3</sup>
|WHO 2010
|WHO 2010 <ref name="WHO_2010"></ref>
|-
| rowspan="2" |[[Particulate matter]]
|[[PM2.5]]
|24-hour
annual
|15
5
|μg/m<sup>3</sup>
|WHO 2021
|-
|-
|[[PM10]]
| rowspan="4" |Inorganic gases
|24-hour
annual
|45
15
|μg/m<sup>3</sup>
|WHO 2021
|-
|
|[[O3]]
|[[O3]]
|8-hour
|8-hour
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60
60
|μg/m<sup>3</sup>
|μg/m<sup>3</sup>
|WHO 2021
|WHO 2021 <ref name="WHO_2021"></ref>
|-
|-
|
|SO<sub>2</sub>
|SO<sub>2</sub>
|10-minute
|10-minute
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40
40
|μg/m<sup>3</sup>
|μg/m<sup>3</sup>
|WHO 2021
|WHO 2021 <ref name="WHO_2021"></ref>
|-
|-
| rowspan="3" |Inorganic gaseous pollutants
|[[NO2|NO<sub>2</sub>]]
|[[NO2|NO<sub>2</sub>]]
|1-hour
|1-hour
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10
10
|μg/m<sup>3</sup>
|μg/m<sup>3</sup>
|WHO 2021
|WHO 2021<ref name="WHO_2021"></ref>
|-
|-
|[[CO]]
|[[CO]]
|15-minute
|15-minute
1-hour
1-hour
8-hour
8-hour
24-hour
24-hour
|100
|100
35
35
10
10
4
4
|mg/m<sup>3</sup>
|mg/m<sup>3</sup>
|WHO 2021
|WHO 2021 <ref name="WHO_2021"></ref>
|-
| rowspan="2" |[[Particulate matter]]
|[[PM2.5]]
|24-hour
annual
|15
5
|μg/m<sup>3</sup>
|WHO 2021 <ref name="WHO_2021"></ref>
|-
|[[PM10]]
|24-hour
annual
|45
15
|μg/m<sup>3</sup>
|WHO 2021 <ref name="WHO_2021"></ref>
|-
|-
|Radioactive gases
|[[Radon]]
|[[Radon]]
|
|
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|
|
|}
|}
== References ==
<references>
<ref name="WHO_2010">{{#lst:Reading List|WHO_2010}}</ref>
<ref name="WHO_2021">{{#lst:Reading List|WHO_2021}}</ref>
</references>

Latest revision as of 10:19, 17 March 2025

Gases

Inorganic gases

Inorganic gaseous air pollutants are a significant group of air contaminants that lack carbon-hydrogen bonds, distinguishing them from organic pollutants.

These gases, including ozone (O3), sulfur dioxide (SO2), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and carbon monoxide (CO), originate from various sources such as vehicle emissions, industrial processes, and natural occurrences like volcanic eruptions.

Organic gases

Organic gaseous compounds can be categorized based on their boiling points, which directly relate to their volatility - their tendency to evaporate at room temperature. This causes their different behaviour in indoor air. Also, the health effects can vary depending on the specific compound and its volatility.

Very volatile organic compounds

Very volatile organic compounds (VVOCs) are gases at room temperature and very easily evaporate.

Examples:

  • Formaldehyde (although some sources classify it as a VOC)
  • Methane
  • Butane
  • Propane
  • Freons (e.g., chlorodifluoromethane)

Volatile organic compounds

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are a large group of chemicals that easily evaporate at room temperature and are the most commonly referred to group when discussing VOCs in indoor air. VOCs are also mainly gases but they may condense on colder surfaces.

They are found in many common household products and building materials, and they can have a significant impact on indoor air quality (IAQ).

Examples:

  • Benzene
  • Toluene
  • Xylene
  • Acetone
  • Ethanol
  • Isopropanol
  • Many components of fragrances and cleaning products

Semi-volatile organic compounds

Semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) have lower volatility than VOCs and tend to exist both in the gas phase and adsorbed onto surfaces or particles (like dust).

Examples:

  • Phthalates (plasticizers)
  • Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) - mostly phased out but can be found in older buildings
  • Polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)
  • Some pesticides
  • Flame retardants (PBDEs)

Radon

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is colorless, odorless, and tasteless. It is formed from the decay of uranium, which is found in rocks and soil throughout the world.

Radon gas can seep into homes and buildings through cracks and openings in the foundation, floors, and walls. It can also be released from building materials that contain radium.

Indoor air particles

Particulate matter (PM) is a mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets suspended in the air. These particles vary in size, composition, and origin, and their effects on human health depend on these characteristics.

PM is classified by its aerodynamic diameter, which is the size of a unit-density sphere with the same aerodynamic properties as the particle.

Coarse particles (PM10)

Coarse particles are inhalable particles, with diameters that are generally 10 micrometers and smaller.

Fine particles (PM2.5)

Fine particles are inhalable particles, with diameters that are generally 2.5 micrometers and smaller. Due to their small size, they can penetrate deep into the respiratory tract, reaching the lungs.

Ultrafine particles (PM0.1 )

Ultrafine particles (UFP) are a subset of particulate matter with a diameter of less than 0.1 micrometers. Due to their extremely small size, UFP can penetrate deep into the lungs and potentially enter the bloodstream, raising concerns about their health effects.

Biological agents

This category encompasses living organisms and their byproducts that can negatively affect indoor air quality.

Mold and Fungi

These microorganisms thrive in damp or humid indoor environments and can release mycotoxins, which can have carcinogenic, immunotoxic, cytotoxic, and mutagenic effects.

Bacteria

Similar to mold, bacteria can grow in damp conditions and cause health issues.

Viruses

These can be transmitted through the air, especially in poorly ventilated spaces.

Allergens

These substances can trigger the immune system, causing allergic reactions. Common indoor allergens include dust mites, pet dander, and pollen.

Concentration limit values for main air pollutants

Categorization Pollutant Averaging period Concentration limit value Reference
Organic gases Benzene - no safe level WHO 2010 [1]
Naphthalene annual 10 μg/m3 WHO 2010 [1]
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons no safe level WHO 2010 [1]
Tetrachloroethylene annual 250 μg/m3 WHO 2010 [1]
Trichloroethylene WHO 2010 [1]
Formaldehyde 30-minute 100 μg/m3 WHO 2010 [1]
Inorganic gases O3 8-hour

peak season

100

60

μg/m3 WHO 2021 [2]
SO2 10-minute

24-hour

500

40

μg/m3 WHO 2021 [2]
NO2 1-hour

24-hour annual

200

25 10

μg/m3 WHO 2021[2]
CO 15-minute

1-hour

8-hour

24-hour

100

35

10

4

mg/m3 WHO 2021 [2]
Particulate matter PM2.5 24-hour

annual

15

5

μg/m3 WHO 2021 [2]
PM10 24-hour

annual

45

15

μg/m3 WHO 2021 [2]
Radioactive gases Radon

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 2.5
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