Role of volatile organic compounds in residential interior air pollution: a study

The indoor environment is dynamic in nature, in particular, because of various emissionsources contributing with volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Indoor air pollution is aconsequence of increased use of synthetics as building materials, cleaning and renovation ofbuilding process, constructing airtight buildings to reduce energy costs and inadequateventilation efficiency. VOCs are ubiquitous in indoor air and by far the largest group ofpollutants. Studies reveal that interior painting, carpets, use of detergents and personalhygiene products contribute maximum amount of VOCs in the household interiors. Changesof ventilation and airflow patterns are responsible for variations of indoor concentrations ofVOCs as a function of time and space. The major health effects are eczema, hyper-reactivity,dermatitis and irritation of the mucous membrane. This research aims at highlighting variousimpacts of VOCs for architects, due to usage of various building materials and householdobjects in urban housing, on indoor environment.