Effects on Indoor Air Quality of Burning Chemicals (Scented Candles and Incense Sticks)

Abstract

Background: The use of scented candles and incense sticks, both of which are household products that are burned for indoor deodorization and calming effects, is increasing. Fine dust has been designated as a group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) affect air pollution and can cause diseases.Objectives: This study aims to determine the effect on indoor air quality by measuring PM 2.5 and VOCs generated when burning scented candles and incense sticks.Methods: Scented candles and incense sticks were selected as household products to burn. As for the target sample, top-selling products (five types of scented candles, five types of incense sticks) were purchased online.The PM 2.5 concentration according to time was measured immediately next to the sample and three meters away from each other in an enclosed space using a real-time aerosol photometer. VOCs were collected as samples under the same conditions using Tenax tubes and were quantitatively analyzed by TD-GC/MS. Results:In the case of scented candles, the concentration of PM 2.5 did not increase during combustion and after being extinguished by placing a cover on the candle. For the incense sticks, the concentration of PM 2.5 averaged 1,901.27 µg/m 3 . After burning scented candles and incense sticks, some VOCs concentrations were increased such as ethyl acetate and BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylene).Conclusions: Therefore, when using scented candles, extinguishment by placing a cover on the candle can be expected to reduce PM 2.5 . It is advisable to avoid using incense sticks because PM 2.5 concentration increases from the start of combustion.