Evaluating mould colonisation and growth on MDF panels modified to sequester volatile organic compounds

Abstract

The increased effort to improve energy efficiency, has led to improved 'air-tightness' of buildings, therefore leading to a reduction in ventilation. This results in an increase in concentration of indoor air pollutants, namely formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are suspected to contribute to ‘sick building syndrome’. There has been considerable research into the reduction of emissions via modification of current construction products. One modification is to use solid additives, ‘scavengers’ in wood-based panels. This paper examines the effects of these scavengers on mould growth and the absorption of the VOCs; toluene, limonene and formaldehyde. The effects of the sorption of VOCs on the colonisation and growth of different mould species on modified MDF panels were also studied. It was shown that modified boards absorbed the three VOCs tested and this absorption did effect mould growth with differences observed in species present and in succession of mould colonisation.