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Antimicrobial Treatments of Indoor Mold and Bacteria
Citation:
MENETREZ, M. Y. Antimicrobial Treatments of Indoor Mold and Bacteria. Chapter 6, Fungicides: Chemistry, Environmental Impact and Health Effects. Nova Science Publishers, Inc, Hauppauge, NY, , 167-186, (2009).
Impact/Purpose:
book chapter
Description:
Biological contaminants especially mold in buildings are known to act as sources of indoor air pollution, discomfort, asthma and pulmonary disease to building occupants. Sick buildings are evidence of extremely problematic indoor air quality (IAQ), often resulting from unacceptable concentrations of biological contaminants, particulates and odors, and extreme temperatures and humidity. Biological contaminants can cause allergic, toxic, or inflammatory responses in building occupants. The risk-management approach to limiting exposure has been to implement a reduction in indoor levels of biological contamination. Antimicrobial agents, called fungicides, sporicides or biocides have long been used to control, prevent, and remediate microbial growth. The antimicrobial efficacy of EPA-FIFRA registered chemicals and encapsulants, over the counter cleaners, and mechanical devices (such as UV irradiation) to reduce concentrations of mold and bacteria have only recently been investigated. Standard methods to test these control measures such as ASTM 6329-98, (2003) have recently been established, and now pertain to a wide set of applications.
