Mobile Home Research: An Evaluation of Formaldehyde Problems in Residential Mobile Homes

摘要

This report examines the problem of elevated formaldehyde levels in mobile homes. Two related and practical concerns are (1) to develop an indoor formaldehyde concentration that may be suggested as an adequate safety standard and (2) to determine if the present state of scientific capability can reduce the mobile home formaldehyde concentrations to that standard level. These concerns were addressed through a review and interpretation of the available literature and empirical data. Specific areas researched included the relevant physical and chemical properties of formaldehyde, monitoring techniques, source identification, and formaldehyde emission strengths as they pertain to the mobile home environment, observed formaldehyde levels, health effects, formaldehyde standards, and abatement techniques. In addition, the magnitude of the formaldehyde problem is assessed. Formaldehyde is a high-volume industrial chemical used in the production of resins. In the manufacture of particleboard or plywood, up to 10 percent of the dry weight of the finished board is resin base.