Indoor surfaces act as sponges for harmful chemicals

8 hours ago

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Indoor surfaces can absorb and retain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) for up to a year, acting like 'chemical sponges.'
VOCs from sources like insecticides, cigarette smoke, and wildfire smoke can persist on porous materials such as wood, cement, and paint.
Health risks arise from inhaling off-gassed VOCs or through skin contact with contaminated surfaces.
The study used a simulated home environment to track VOC movement, revealing larger surface reservoirs than previously thought.
Traditional ventilation may not be enough; physical cleaning (vacuuming, mopping) is necessary to remove contaminants.
Findings explain lingering odors like tobacco smoke ('thirdhand smoke') due to slow VOC release from surfaces.
Research highlights the need for better indoor air quality management to reduce long-term exposure risks.

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