Use of MVOC measurements and odour perception as indicator of mould in indoor areas
Keller, R. , Senkpiel, K. , Ohgke, H.
2001 In "Bioaerosols, Fungi and Mycotoxins: Health Effects, Assessment, Prevention and Control", Edited by Johanning, E., Boyd Printing, Albany, New York
Keller, R. , Senkpiel, K. , Ohgke, H., (2001), "Use of MVOC measurements and odour perception as indicator of mould in indoor areas", In "Bioaerosols, Fungi and Mycotoxins: Health Effects, Assessment, Prevention and Control", Edited by Johanning, E., Boyd Printing, Albany, New York.
Abstract
Moulds are amongst the most important indoor allergens. Mould formation in buildings and residential housing is often caused or facilitated by construction defects and lack of building use. Moulds produce a range of volatile organic compounds, the Microbial Volatile Organic Compounds (MVOCs). Some of these compounds, such as 1-octene-3-ol, 2-methyl-1-propanol, dimethylsulphide, dimethyldisulphide, dimethylsulphoxide, 2-heptanone and geosmin, produce a musty, foul or earthy odour which can be detected long before any visible signs of mould growth are evident.
In small test samples (between 1and 5 litres) thermodesorption combined with mass spectrometry allows an analytical detection of these compounds in indoor air at concentrations substantially lower than their olfactory threshold. For these analyses, only small test samples (1 to 5 litres) are required.
Result of this study: 131 residences were analysed. In all rooms (n=96) with olfactory signs of mould formation, more than 50 ng/m3 of MVOC¡äs could be detected.
MVOC is sensitive, specific, valid and thus helps to prevent exposure to fungal allergens.
Bioaerosols, Fungi and Mycotoxins, Ed. by Johanning, E. "papers presented at the September, 1998 Third International Conference in Saratoga Springs, New York. clinical and epidemiological studies and technical reports on an emerging public health topic affecting people in indoor environments at work and at home."
