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CHARACTERIZATION OF ORGANIC EMISSIONS FROM SELECTED MATERIALS IN INDOOR USE
Citation:
Tichenor, B. AND M. Mason. CHARACTERIZATION OF ORGANIC EMISSIONS FROM SELECTED MATERIALS IN INDOOR USE. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C., EPA/600/D-86/088.
Description:
The paper provides data from small-chamber testing of a latex caulk and a floor adhesive, as part of EPA's ongoing evaluation of organic emissions from indoor materials. Among the conclusions drawn from presented data are: (1) low air exchange rates promote high concentrations of organic vapors emitted from indoor sources. (2) high air exchange rates promote rapid vaporization of organics, leading to high emission factors in the initial testing phase; (3) cumulative mass emissions at the end of the testing period are approximately equal for all air exchange rates; and (4) organic emissions for different materials vary widely. Further research could provide additional valuable information, including identifying critical parameters affecting chamber emissions for a variety of building materials and consumer products. Research is underway to determine how changes in temperature and humidity affect organic emissions. Efforts continue to improve upon available models for relating chamber test conditions to emissions.