The Presence of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Indoors During the Heating Season: in situ Emission Study of a Frame-house

Abstract

Due to the more stringent energy regulations the air-tightness and insulation of buildings is much higher than in old buildings. As a result of synthetic building materials and reduced air exchange rates indoor air quality is deteriorating significantly. In this study we examined the indoor air quality of a newly built, frame-house during the heating season. Formaldehyde (11-130 μg/m3), 3-carene (133-300 μg/m3) and alphapinene (130-300 μg/m3) values varied over a wide range depending on the indoor activities. We determined that further measurements are required on the subject during the summer period as well.