Design implications of indoor air quality and material outgassing

Abstract

The purpose of this Master's Degree Project was to determine the design implications of indoor air quality (IAQ) and material outgassing for the design of consumer products and the built environment. A literature review was conducted to assess the factors that influence the air quality of the indoor environment and the associated health and comfort issues. To understand the relationship between IAQ and health, the process of health risk assessment and management was examined. The principles involved-in health risk assessment were then applied to three chemical substances: toluene, formaldehyde, and vinyl chloride. Options to promote good indoor air quality and reduce the impact of material outgassing are presented.