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Taylor and Francis Group, Journal of Toxicology and Environmental Health, Part A: Current Issues, 22-23(75), p. 1371-1380, 2012

DOI: 10.1080/15287394.2012.721169

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Could Houseplants Improve Indoor air Quality in Schools?

Journal article published in 2012 by P. N. Pegas, C. A. Alves ORCID, T. Nunes, E. F. Bate Epey, M. Evtyugina, C. A. Pio
This paper is available in a repository.
This paper is available in a repository.

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Abstract

Previous studies performed by the National Aeronautics Space Administration (NASA) indicated that plants and associated soil microorganisms may be used to reduce indoor pollutant levels. This study investigated the ability of plants to improve indoor air quality in schools. A 9-wk intensive monitoring campaign of indoor and outdoor air pollution was carried out in 2011 in a primary school of Aveiro, Portugal. Measurements included temperature, carbon dioxide (CO(2)), carbon monoxide (CO), concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOC), carbonyls, and particulate matter (PM(10)) without and with plants in a classroom. PM(10) samples were analyzed for the water-soluble inorganic ions, as well for carbonaceous fractions. After 6 potted plants were hung from the ceiling, the mean CO(2) concentration decreased from 2004 to 1121 ppm. The total VOC average concentrations in the indoor air during periods of occupancy without and with the presence of potted plants were, respectively, 933 and 249 μg/m(3). The daily PM(10) levels in the classroom during the occupancy periods were always higher than those outdoors. The presence of potted plants likely favored a decrease of approximately 30% in PM(10) concentrations. Our findings corroborate the results of NASA studies suggesting that plants might improve indoor air and make interior breathing spaces healthier.