Research on Semi-Volatile Organic Compounds (SVOCs) in Indoor Spaces

2012-1001-08
researcher's name
affiliation
research field
Architectural environment/Equipment
keyword

background

Little progress has been made in indoor pollution control measures for Semi-Volatile Organic Compounds (SVOCs) that have high boiling points. SVOCs include house dust as well as substances disposed to attaching to indoor surfaces. Researchers point out that the source of SVOC emissions in indoor spaces is diverse, and that SVOCs can accumulate inside the human body and have adverse effects on human health. Overseas studies have found a correlation between the concentration of phthalates in house dust and children’s asthma and allergy symptoms. As the intake of house dust by young children is more than ten times that of adults, concentrations of SVOCs in house dust are deemed to pose a higher risk to young children than to adults.

summary

Our laboratory is developing a new nozzle to collect house dust, and carries out analyses of the concentrations of SVOCs in house dust. Measurements are taken not only at general residential homes, but also in various spaces, such as homes made of natural materials and kindergartens, in order to measure indoor SVOC contamination levels. Furthermore, the speed of SVOC emissions from indoor finishing materials is measured to study how much impact the speed of SVOC emissions from building materials has on the concentration of SVOC in house dust. A variety of such studies are being implemented for developing measures to deal with indoor SVOC contamination.

application/development

Future activities include a mechanism experiment on the indoor behavior of SVOCs using a micro chamber.

predominance

The use of a micro chamber has enabled measurements to be taken of the speed of SVOC emissions from building materials.

purpose of providing seeds

Sponsord research, Collaboration research, Technical consultation

material

  • House dust collection nozzle
  • House dust being collected
  • Micro chamber
  • Interior surface automatic thermal desorption device of the micro chamber
posted: 2014/05/21