Microbial volatile organic compound emission rates and exposure model

Abstract

This paper presents the results from a study that examined microbial volatile organic compound (MVOC) emissions from six fungi and one bacterial species (Streptomyces spp.) commonly found in indoor environments. Data are presented on peak emission rates from inoculated agar plates loaded with surface growth, ranging from 33.5 mug.m(-2) per 24 h (Cladosporium sphaerospermum)to 515 mug.m(-2) per 24 h (Rhodotorula glutinis). Furthermore, changes in MVOC emission levels during the growth cycle of two of the micro-organisms are examined. This report also includes a calculation of the impact of MVOC emissions on indoor air quality in a typical house and an application of an exposure model used in a typical school environment. Copyright (C) 2002 S. Karger AG, Basel