Abstract
This study describes the size distribution and concentration of particles expelled by a portable, 3-L ultrasonic humidifier. The ultrasonic humidifier was filled with waters of varying mineral content and hardness. Aerosol size distributions were measured during 8hours of humidifier operation in a typical bedroom. Humidifiers produced approximately 1.22×1010 -2.50×1010 airborne particles per milliliter of water consumed, resulting in airborne particle concentrations of 3.01-5.91×104 #/cm3 , with modes ranging between 109 and 322nm in diameter. The emission rate of particles varied by water type from 1.02×109 to 2.27×109 #/s. Lower mineral waters produced fewer, smaller particles when compared to higher mineral waters. Chemical analyses of particles collected with a cascade impactor indicated that the minerals in emitted particles had the same relative mineral concentrations as the fill water. Our results demonstrate that ultrasonic humidifiers should be considered a source of inhalation exposure to minerals dissolved in water, and that the magnitude of exposure to inhalable particles will vary with water quality.
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