VOC and particle concentrations in new and old model automobiles

Authors

J. Edward Dotherow, Georgia Southern University, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public HealthFollow
Deonte Martin, Georgia Southern University
Atin Adhikari, Georgia Southern University, Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public HealthFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

6-1-2019

Publication Title

International Journal of Transport Development and Integration

DOI

10.2495/TDI-V3-N2-179-184

ISSN

2058-8313

Abstract

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from vehicle dashboards, panelling and interior components are one of the primary contributors to poor automobile air quality. Exposure to VOCs can result in symptoms such as headaches and fatigue which can lead to unsafe driving. The purpose of this pilot study was to compare the VOC and airborne particle concentration levels between new model (N = 6) and old model (>10 years old, N = 4) automobiles. VOC and particle measurements were conducted at the beginning of business operations and then again four hours later to assess the impact of temperature on material emissions of VOCs. Morning VOC measurements in new and old model au- tomobiles ranged from p < 0.05; in the afternoons: 0.947 (p < 0.05)]. New model automobiles emit significantly higher levels of VOCs than older models during morning hours (p < 0.05).

Recommended Citation

Dotherow, J. Edward, Deonte Martin, Atin Adhikari. 2019. "VOC and particle concentrations in new and old model automobiles." International Journal of Transport Development and Integration, 3 (2): 179-184: WIT Press. doi: 10.2495/TDI-V3-N2-179-184
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/bee-facpubs/139