MVOC as possible indicators for moisture damages - field report of examinations in the public building stock of Cologne, Germany

摘要

Background: MVOC (microbial volatile organic compounds) are discussed controversially as possible indicators of hidden moisture damages and/or hidden mold growth indoors. Aim:Therefore, it should be checked by means of 215 measurements of MVOC in 91 Cologne kindergartens and schools as well as result-based further measures, whether MVOC can be reliable indicators for hidden moisture damages or not. Methods: From 1995 until 2010,215 indoor air measurements of MVOC were performed in 91 Cologne kindergartens and schools, where users complained about a moldy unpleasant odor.Visible moisture damages or visible mold growth could not be detected. In 41 cases, building constructions were opened because of conspicuous MVOC measurements. Results: Out of building construction openings in 41 rooms with conspicuous indoor air concentrations of MVOC, in 27 cases hidden mold growth could be confirmed via analyses of mold spores on building materials, moisture measurements and optical controls. In 14 cases, no hidden mold growth could be detected. Conclusion: The present results show that further systematic investigations are necessary for the decision, whether in case of possible hidden moisture/mold exposures MVOC measurements are dispensable and building construction openings should be performed immediately.