Methodology for determining indoor air quality and identifiying the origin of odour episodes in indoor environments through dynamics VOC sampling and TD-GC/MS analysis
A methodology for identifying volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and determining air quality of indoor air has been developed.
The air samples are collected using pump samplers by the inhabitants when they perceive odorous and/or discomfort episodes. Glass
multi-sorbent tubes are connected to the pump samplers for the retention of VOC. The analysis is performed by automatic thermal
desorption (ATD) coupled with gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC/MS). This methodology can be applied in cases of sick
building syndrome (SBS) evaluation, in which building occupants experience a series of varied symptoms that appear to be linked to
time spent in the building. Chemical pollutants concentrations (e.g., VOC) have been described to contribute to SBS. To exemplify
the methodology, a qualitative determination and an evaluation of existing VOC were performed in a dwelling where the occupants
experienced the SBS symptoms. Higher total VOC (TVOC) levels were detected during episodes in indoor air (1.33 ± 1.53 mg/m3)
compared to outdoor air (0.71 ± 0.46 mg/m3). The concentrations of individual VOCs, such as ethanol, acetone, isopropanol, 1-butanol,
acetic acid, acetonitrile and 1-methoxy-2-propanol, were also higher than the expected for a standard dwelling. The external source of
VOC was found to be an undeclared activity of storage and manipulation of solvents located at the bottom of a contiguous building.Peer ReviewedPostprint (author’s final draft