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Research shows that chemical substances present in perfumed products contribute to indoor air pollution, which can impact environmental quality and respiratory health
Using scented products indoors can cause air pollution levels similar to those generated by vehicle exhaust.
That's according to a new study from Purdue University. The research looked at the impact of flameless candles and found that they release tiny particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs, potentially causing crags to health.
Sources of indoor air pollution
When most people think of air pollution, they associate it with factories and vehicles. However, there are less obvious sources of pollution in homes and offices. Products like scented candles and aromatherapy products can significantly alter indoor air quality.
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The research, conducted by Purdue University, is part of a series of studies investigating how chemical compounds in these products affect the indoor environment. The study used a specialized laboratory called zEDGE, designed to test the energy efficiency of buildings and monitor air quality.
Researchers have discovered that chemicals in scented waxes can react with indoor air to form nanoparticles. These particles are small enough to enter the respiratory system and spread throughout the body.
Formation of nanometric particles
Nanoparticles formed by burning scented waxes resemble those found in outdoor pollution. Researchers have identified that the main culprits for this formation are terpenes, aromatic compounds found in plants and artificially added to scented products.
These terpenes react with ozone in indoor air to create new particles. The study found that simply heating a scented wax can increase the amount of nanoparticles in the air to levels comparable to those of diesel engines and traditional candles.
The measurement was made using high-precision sensors installed in the test house. The results showed that the concentration of particles formed reached more than one million per cubic centimeter. In comparison, natural gas engines and gas stoves also generate similar concentrations.
The health risks of scented products
The health impact of these nanoparticles is still being studied. However, researchers already know that particles smaller than 100 nanometers can cross cellular barriers and reach the bloodstream. This means they can reach vital organs, such as the brain.
Additionally, scientists analyzed how these particles are deposited in the respiratory tract. The deposition rate was approximately 29 billion particles per minute. This number indicates that frequent use of these products can lead to constant exposure to potentially harmful particles.
The study also compared particle emissions between scented and unscented waxes. The results showed that unscented waxes released virtually no nanoparticles. This suggests that the main source of pollution lies in the chemicals added to create artificial scents.
Implications for buildings and ventilation
Scientists say the study's findings should be considered when designing buildings to minimize exposure to indoor pollutants and improve ventilation systems.
"Our research shows that scented products are not just passive sources of pleasant aromas – they actively alter indoor air chemistry, leading to the formation of nanoparticles in concentrations that can have significant health implications.”, explained Nusrat Jung, one of the authors of the study.
The researchers point out that the use of adequate ventilation systems can reduce the effects of these particles. Strategies such as constant renewal of indoor air and the use of less volatile materials can reduce pollution in homes and offices.
Scented products: difference between natural and artificial sources
The study also compared terpene emissions between natural and artificial sources. While cleaning products and scented waxes release excess terpenes quickly, natural processes, such as peeling a citrus fruit, result in a gradual increase in terpenes in the air.
This means that when choosing between an artificially scented air freshener and natural methods of scenting a room, the latter option may be less harmful.
Need for more research
Scientists say there is still much to discover about the effects of inhaled terpenes on human health. Future studies should analyze the impact of different chemical compounds and their interactions with the body.
For now, researchers recommend caution when using these products indoors. Strategies such as increasing ventilation, avoiding highly scented products and opting for natural alternatives can help reduce risks.
A Purdue University study shows that scented products are a significant source of indoor air pollution. They release microscopic particles that can be inhaled and pose risks to respiratory health.
Although the research is still ongoing, scientists warn of the importance of a well-ventilated environment and the conscious use of these products. The findings could influence the design of new buildings and the formulation of products that have a lesser impact on air quality.
With information from New Atlas.
