Screening of volatile organic compounds as a source for indoor pollution

Abstract

For a considerable period of time the presence of an increasing number of chemicals has been observed in almost all aspects of human life. This process also affects the living and working environment of man. Human development, including physical and mental health and well-being, depends on to a great degree on the surrounding environment. Considering that an average person spends a significant part of his/her life indoors, it is essential to pay more attention to the quality of indoor air. In this study the sources of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC) in indoor air have been reviewed, with a particular emphasis on building materials and the materials used for finishing works. Moreover, a screening methodology and test chamber protocols are presented, which allow the determination of VOC fluxes from the materials inside the building.