CONTROLLING ODOROUS EMISSIONS FROM OFFICE FURNITURE

摘要

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and odors associated with interior construction materials and furnishings can result in human complaints including mucous membrane irritation and headaches. These nonspecific complaints can result in Building Related Symptoms (BRS) within an office building, leading to occupant discomfort and loss of productivity. Independent studies of two large multi-story office buildings indicated the presence of objectionable odors resulting from the installation of new office furniture within the past six months. Sources of these odors were identified as trimethylamine (TMA) and butyric acid, respectively, emitting from the acoustical panels. Sources of these chemicals were identified as fiber glass insulation for TMA and an internal structural septum made of cardboard for the butyric acid. In an effort to control these emissions and resulting odors from finished furniture, material specifications were established to allow no greater product emission levels than 10 μg/m~2 ·hr for TMA and 2.5 μg/m~2 ·hr for butyric acid.