For Presentation at the 86th Annual

Denver, CO, June 13-18, 1993 Air 6i Waste Management Association Meeting

EPA's Indoor AirIPollution Prevention Workshor,

Kelly W. Leovic and James B. White Indoor Air Branch

Air and Energy Engineering Research Laboratory U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711

and

Chris Sarsony Radian Corporation

P.O. Box 13000 Research Triangle Park, NC 27709

ABSTRACT

In order for EPA's Air and Energy Engineering Research Laboratory to prioritize potential areas of research for applying pollution prevention to indoor air quality (IAQ), a Workshop was held in March 1993 to bring together technical experts in the fields of IAQ, pollution prevention, and selected industries. The Workshop goals were to identify major IAQ issues and their pollution prevention opportunities, and to suggest research strategies for IAQ/pollution prevention.

Participants were placed into one of six workgroups to focus on pollution prevention research in the following topic areas: adhesives and sealants, building materials, consumer products, furniture, office equipment, and textiles. An ad hoc workgroup on biocontaminants was added because of the participants' interest in the topic.

This paper summarizes the findings of the Workshop and highlights opportunities for IAQ/pollution prevention research. Workshop proceedings will be available later this year.

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INTRODUCTION

Recently, EPA's Air and Energy Engineering Research Laboratory (AEERL,) has made a substantial effort to apply pollution prevention as the preferred strategy to reduce both indoor and outdoor air pollution.' Because eliminating and/or reducing pollution sources are effective methods of reducing indoor air pollution, AEERL's Indoor Air Branch is researching the application of pollution prevention techniques to indoor air pollution.

focused on the development of low emitting materials (LEMs). A LEM is a material which, when used in the same manner and in the same space as an alternative material, has reduced emissions. The reduction in emissions must be attributable to a pollution prevention intervention such as a product reformulation, a change in a process, or a materials substitution.

AEERL has been compiling information on the indoor air emission characteristics of various building materials and other indoor products.lS2 The goal is to provide information to potential users, such as builders and designers, to help them make more informed choices. The emissions data have also been used to identify potential target areas for conducting pollution prevention research.

In order for AEERL to prioritize potential areas of research for applying pollution prevention to indoor air quality (IAQ), a Workshop was held in March 1993 to bring together technical experts in the fields of IAQ, pollution prevention, and selected industries. The Workshop goals were to identify major IAQ issues and their pollution prevention opportunities, and to suggest research strategies for IAQ/pOllUtiOn prevention. This paper summarizes the findings of the Workshop and highlights opportunities for IAQ/pollution prevention research. later this year.

WORKSHOP FORMAT

AEERL's application of pollution prevention to indoor air research is

Workshop proceedings will be available

The Workshop brought together about 60 individuals with expertise in IAQ, pollution prevention, and/or industry. The first part of the 2-day Workshop covered background information on IAQ, pollution prevention, and AEERL's strategy to combine the two. Participants were then placed into one of six workgroups to focus on pollution prevention research in the following topic areas: adhesives and sealants, building materials, consumer products, furniture, office equipment, and textiles. Participants were placed in a different workgroup topic area for the second day (so each topic was covered twice -- by different group members). on biocontaminants was added because of the participants' interest in the topic.

On the second day, an ad hoc workgroup

Each of the workgroups was asked to address the following questions:

1) Within each topic area, what materials/products are candidates for IAQ/pollution prevention research? The following selection criteria were suggested: emissions and usage patterns, potential for applying pollution prevention, and technical knowledge of the manufacturing process.

What should AEERL's pollution prevention research strategy be in each recommended area? The strategies were to focus on technical approaches to pollution prevention, not policy or regulatory issues.

Two members from each workgroup were assigned as facilitators and were charged with keeping the discussions on the topic and on schedule. presenter was also designated in each workgroup to present the workgroup's .conclusions to the rest of the Workshop participants.

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WORKGROUP DISCUSSIONS

The following sections summarize workgroup discussions and conclusions in the seven different topic areas: adhesives and sealants, biocontaminants, building materials, consumer products, furniture, office equipment, and textiles. The first part of each section covers the workgroups' suggested materials/products for IAQ/pollution prevention research (question 1 above). The second part of each section includes the workgroup's suggested IAQ/pollution prevention research strategies for the topic area (question 2 above). AEERL research priorities, but only as summaries of the topics discussed by Workshop participants.

Adhesives and Sealants Workgroup

The adhesives and sealants workgroup limited discussion to "finished products," or only those products that actually function as adhesives and sealants, and not those that include adhesives and eealante as part of the product. The workgroup determined that an adhesive or sealant must meet two criteria to be considered in the discussion: 1) there must be volatile organic compound (VOC) present, and 2) the adhesive or sealant must not be incased (i.e., there must be an avenue for the VOCE to escape). Waxes were not included in the discussion.

The summaries are not meant as a comprehensive listing or ranking of

Once the scope had been defined, the workgroup focused on two distinct categories: 1) construction adhesives, and 2) caulks and sealants. Under the category of construction adhesives, the workgroup included: floor-covering adhesives (e.g., those used for carpet, floor tile, wood flooring, sheet floor coverings, and subflooring); cove base adhesives; bonding glues for construction materials (including liquid nails); wallcovering adhesives; ceramic tile adhesives; heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning ( W A C ) system adhesives; epoxy adhesives (including textured rubber); and woodworking glues. Under the category of caulks and sealants, the workgroup included window glazing; concrete sealant; tub and tile sealant; and other miscellaneous residential construction caulks and sealants.

Suqsested Pollution Prevention Research Strateuies. The workgroup discussed a number of pollution prevention options for adhesives and caulks/sealants. Suggestions included alternative methods of bonding, thereby eliminating the need for adhesives; investigating use and application methods; reducing emissions from waste; and exploring the chemistry and physics (i.e., the design) of adhesives and caulks/sealanta and targeting "bad actors." As a step toward targeting the "bad actors," the specific components of adhesives and sealants were discussed. It was determined that latex acrylic, styrene butadiene rubber, neoprene rubber, butyl rubber, polymer, vinyl, silicone, and urethane are prevalent in these products.

The following specific pollution prevention options were suggested for

e Material substitution (e.g., substituting with lower-emitting raw

0 Material elimination (e.g., eliminating unnecessary chemicals from

e Innovative technologies (e.g., producing a carpet with an attached

e Process substitution (e.g., Velcro, hot melt, edge glue, plastic

adhesives and caulks/sealants:

materials);

products);

stick-on pad, producing adhesives without solvents); and

enclosures).

The workgroup also suggested the following general considerations for researching the application of pollution prevention to adhesives and sealants:

-_ 0 Technology transfer (i.e., conduct a literature review and provide

e Emission assessments (e.g., determine baseline emissions for results to producers, installers, and consumers);

adhesives and caulkelsealants; test low-odor, low-emission adhesives, and also water-based and high-solids adhesives for actual emissions; conduct emission profiles in chambers; develop methods for emission tests);

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0 Source modeling (e.g., modeling diffusivity, vapor pressures, and

0 Real-time monitoring (e.g., provide on-site sensors for real-time change in matrix as emissions occur); and

monitoring on production lines for producers of adhesives and sealants).

Biocontaminants Workgroup

On the second day of the Workshop, an ad hoc workgroup was formed to discuss options for preventing biocontaminant growth since the topic had been raised in a number of the workgroups on the first day. discussions by focusing on both the survival aspects of biocontaminants and the effects of lifestyles and hygiene on biocontaminant growth.

Unlike most other indoor air pollutants, biocontaminants are living organisms that can multiply and grow. However, they need moisture and nutrients in a cyclical wet/dry environment in order to survive. The areas in a building/home that offer this type of environment include: kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. Surfaces or items that might, under favorable conditions, encourage microorganism growth include: humidifiers, W A C systems, water leaks, carpet, textiles, and suspended ceilings. Infrequent building maintenance, limiting the amount of outdoor air provided, and a low air velocity are all examples of situations that will encourage biocontaminant growth.

Personal lifestyle and hygiene can also affect the amount of biocontaminants in the indoor air environment. For example, the number of dpst mites on a bed is related to how often the sheets are washed. Also, the thermostat setting will affect biocontaminant growth because they favor certain temperature ranges. an affect on the number of biocontaminants. Finally, pets and plants are large sources of biocontaminants; however, they were not considered any further by the group because they are considered the personal preference of the individual and not an area that could be modified through research.

Sussested Pollution Prevention Research Strateuies. The workgroup suggested that AEERL research could contribute to IAQ/pollution prevention in the following areas:

The workgroup began

The number of people occupying a space also has

Improvement of biocontaminant measurement techniques; Development of building codes to avoid places in the building (including the HVAC system) that encourage biocontaminant growth; Development of safe biocides;

filters) ; and 0 Development of effective building cleaning schedules (e.g.,

0 Education of the public.

Additional research suggestions to prevent biocontaminant growth are provided in the following workgroup discussion on building materials.

Building Materials Workgroup

Based on the selection criteria provided above (emission and usage patterns, potential for applying pollution prevention, and technical knowledge of the manufacturing process), vinyl and fabric wall coverings, W A C systems, interior panels, ceiling tile, and electrical wire jacketing were selected by workgroup members for discussion.

Vinyl wall coverings have the potential to be significant emitters due to the presence of plasticizers. sources and sinks for indoor air pollution. ( A sink is a material that adsorbs a pollutant emitting from another source and then, possibly, re-emits %he pollutant. )

distribute contaminants throughout a building. The W A C system can also harbor potentially harmful biocontaminants. liners as a source of indoor air pollution. Two workgroup members identified neoprene as a pollutant of concern from the duct liners. Due to the high air

Fabric wall coverings were discussed both as

HVAC systems were discussed in detail because air-handling equipment can

The workgroup also discussed duct

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temperatures inside ducts, neoprene may initially be released as a vapor. Condensation downstream may then result in distribution of neoprene in a particulate phase. Neoprene can adsorb and re-emit VOCs and semi-VOCs, and is easily degraded by ozone.

Interior panels were considered both a source of indoor air pollution and a sink. If a coating is applied, a panel may still act as a source but its ability to act as a sink may be eliminated. Also, precut interior shelving made from particle or wafer board (a relatively new product available to the consumer at building supply stores) can also act as a source and a sink. Oriented strand board, used in building construction, may also be a potential source and sink for indoor contaminants.

sinks. both the bottom (i.e., room side) and top. Also, the top side of the tile can collect dust and possibly biocontaminants -- particularly if the space between the top of the tile and the bottom of the next higher floor is used as a return air plenum.

emissions from the wire jacket. Wiring has a very high surface area in most buildings, making it a high priority source. The emissions from the plasticizers in the jacket may be influenced by the temperature around the wire.

Ceiling tiles were identified as possible indoor air sources and/or The typical drop ceiling tile may act as a sink for VOC emissions on

Finally, electrical wiring was briefly diecussed because of the

Sussested Pollution Prevention Research Strateuies. A suggested starting point for research on vinyl wall coverings is characterizing and speciating tile components in vinyl wall coverings. This includes quantifying the source strength and investigating potential health impacts. Biological harboring properties could also be investigated, specifically with respect to surface roughness characteristics. Recommended uses, including methods of application and location of material, and cleaning options may also present research opportunities.

Research on fabric wall coverings should target the selection of raw materials and weave options (i.e., product design and assembly). There was speculation that these two material properties significantly influence the ability of the fabric wall coverings to function as contaminant sinks. Both biocide impregnation and sealant application onto the prewoven fibers were suggested to prevent biological contamination of the fabric.

Research initiatives for W A C systems included developing W A C system ductwork surfaces that would not encourage the growth of biocontaminants. Similarly, the use of safe biocides in the air stream and improved humidity control were discussed as ways to prevent biocontaminant growth. Research could also develop W A C system components that require less frequent cleaning. This could prevent the accumulation of dust and biocontaminants. One suggested "quick fix" was to install duct liners (i.e., foam insulation material) on the outside of sheet metal ducts. This would effectively eliminate contact between the duct liner and the heated air stream. However, the flammability characteristics of this design must be considered, as well as the potential for accumulation of condensate on the interior of the duct.

Pollution prevention options discussed for interior panels (including precut shelving) included practicing safer and more effective methods of applying coatings at the place of manufacture. would significantly reduce the adsorptive properties of the materials. The workgroup also discussed the use of low VOC-emitting binders to replace currently used binder formulations. This new generation of panel binders could potentially minimize (or eliminate) the adsorptive properties of the panels by sealing the porosity of the raw materials. In addition, the new bihders could even contain safe, effective biocides for biocontaminant control.

This potentially easy step

Research suggestions for ceiling tiles included replacing them with a substitute material that would provide satiefactory sound and thermal insulation without providing the large surface areas for particulate and biocontaminant accumulation. Effective cleaning alternatives for the top

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(i.e., plenum side) of the ceiling tiles should also be investigated. This would reduce the accumulation of dust and, thus, reduce the growth of biocontaminants.

General research suggestions included:

0 Pollution prevention initiatives should focus on both the source characteristics of a material (e.g., pollutant composition, emission profiles) and on the potential sink characteristics. Similarly, research should address the interaction of building materials with other indoor air pollutant sources.

semi-VOCs from many building materials, particularly interior and exterior panels, may be to seal them by applying a coating and/or sealant prior to or immediately after installation. exposed surfaces should also reduce the chances that the item will act as a sink. However, this approach would need to consider any emissions from the coating or sealant.

emphasis should be placed on easy-to-clean designs. biocontaminante could be reduced by removing dust from interior spaces.

include consideration of the following characteristics: the total surface area of material used, the toxicity of emitted compounds, and emission mechanisms (e.g., physical, chemical, thermal).

0 The most effective method for preventing the release of VOCs and

Sealing

0 In the development of building components and systems, more The growth of

0 IAQ/pollution prevention research on building materials should

CFnsumer Products Workgroup

The following product categories were discussed as potential research areas for consumer products: deodorizers, room fresheners, garage/basement products, cleaning products, polishes (e.g., shoe, floor, furniture), hobby materials, personal care products/cosmetics and toiletries, plastic and rubber products, and pesticides. The workgroup determined that any research ideas applicable to all consumer products should address both health risks and market considerations.

Research to identify health risks should include:

0 Identification of chemicals of concern in each product; 0 Evaluation of dose and exposure patterns; 0 Exploration of multi-media effects using life-cycle analyses; 0 Determination of benefits of substitutes -- are they "better"? 0 Determination of screening procedures for selecting products to be

researched; 0 Determination of how EPA can address the uncertainty about product

formulations due to proprietary concerns; and 0 Collaboration within the EPA, other government agencies, and

industry when discussing consumer product IAQ/pollution prevention issues.

Market considerations should address:

0 Market acceptance of product -- what do coneumers want? 0 Industry goals; 0 Product performance standards; 0 Data exchange with industry; and 0 Standardized testing methods for industry.

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I Suosested Pollution Prevention Reeearch Strateqier. Pollution prevention

options for consumer products should consider:

m Packaging, delivery, storage, and disposal issues; ., Consumer-based performance standards development; m Total cost benefit assessment;

Labeling ; and a Consumer education on proper product use.

The workgroup decided that characterizing the source had to be the first step in determining how "big" the problem is. answered are: 1) What goes into the product? and 2) How is the product released into the air? Research on product content would entail identifying the various product components (e.g., active, inert, carriers, propellants). To address the second question, researchers would have to look at the various product forms such as aerosol, foam, liquid, and gel, and determine if there are varying indoor air emissions from the different forms.

opportunity. Traditional testing methods, such as chamber studies, are not always appropriate for these products. procedure developed by EPA be shared with industry. also be used in the development of emission models. used in place of actually testing every product.

Two crucial questions to be

Test method development for consumer product testing is another research

It was suggested that any testing These test methods could The models could then be

The reasonableness of testing all the individual chemicals in consumer products, especially in the absence of exact chemical formulations from kndustry, was questioned. One of the group members etated that health effects can be studied without formulations, but that it is difficult to work in a "black box." Another individual mentioned that the effects of mixtures are sometimes worse than the effects from individual chemicals.

Furniture Workgroup

The workgroup participants listed the types of furniture as well as the raw materials that are used in furniture manufacture. The types of furniture listed were: kitchen cabinets, bathroom vanities, wood domestic/office furniture, soft furniture, plastic/vinyl furniture, work stations/partitions, storage cabinets, table tops, metal furniture, metal cabinets, bedding, and counter tops. The types of raw materiale listed were: fabrics (woven and knit), flexible polyurethane foam, rigid polyurethane foam, synthetic/natural fibers, pressed wood/plywood/solid lumber, wood veneer, thermoplastics, metals adhesives, coatings, lubricants, fibrous glass, glass, laminate, and paperboard.

It was noted that the process of making furniture is generally the same; i.e., the material is cutlshaped, colored, and then coated/protected. The number of steps necessary to manufacture the piece of furniture as well as the raw materials are the variables in the process.

that acted as primary sources of indoor air emissions and not those that acted as sinks and then re-emitted pollutants later. It wae suggested that research should focus on both lower emitting products and the amount of a product that is used.

The workgroup agreed to consider for discussion only those materiale

The following products were then suggested as possible candidates for

Finish Coatings (for wood and metal components)

research:

e acid catalyzed finishes (formaldehyde source) .- 0 natural versus synthetic finishes

0 potential environmental impacts of low-VOC and water-based

fabrics - approximately 6,000 types currently marketed coatings

Upholstered Furniture 0

e fabric finishes - Hanufacturer-Applied Finish Treatment (HAFT) versus Retailer-Applied Finish Treatment (RAFT)

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Institutional Furniture 0 especially school furniture - desks, storage cabinets (pressed

wood and laminate products)

Residential Furniture 0 kitchen and bathroom cabinets; bedding

Cushioning

sink 0 polyurethane foam - soft and rigid; possible emission source and

It was recognized that emissions data from these products are limited; therefore, baseline product and emissions inventories are not available. Several industries have done emissions testing; however, most data are proprietary.

Sussested Pollution Prevention Research Stratecrier. Research suggestions ranged from large chamber studies that could characterize emissions from whole pieces of furniture, to smaller chamber studies that could characterize emissions from furniture components. Such studies would provide data for models that could estimate emissions from whole furniture products or from whole rooms or buildings. If such models were based on raw material or component data, then the models might be used as the bases for decisions on manufacturing changes that would reduce emissions.

questioned. Currently, there are no performance requirements for emission rates. This acceptability is an overriding concern on the part of industry. It was concluded that a commonality of goals needs to be established. From this conclusion, it was agreed that the common goal is lower emitting materials.

The acceptability of emission rates from various types of furniture was

The goal of lower emitting materials first requires the identification of emitters and emission rates, then the identification of critical emissions and products. The next step is to identify manufacturing changes that will reduce emissions. Manufacturers noted that their industry standards are based on regulations and requirements and that many manufacturing decisions are market driven. It was suggested that labeling might be a solution to this problem; i.e., once emitters are identified, the public could be informed through product labels.

Office Equipment Workgroup

as copy, printer, blueprint, and fax machines) and products (such as aerosol sprays) presents health risks through exposure to indoor air pollutants such as ozone, organic vapors, and fine particles. Current control strategies for these pollutants often focus on increased ventilation once the pollution enters the indoor environment; however, reduction of these indoor air pollutants at the source may be the most effective means of reducing exposure.

potential emitters: penalmarkere, adhesives/glues (e.g., rubber cement), cleaners, blueprint machines, bubble jet (i.e., ink jet printers), newly printed books, scented materials, coffee pots/heaters, office heaters, graphic arts equipment, papers (thermal, carbon, carbonless), typewriter correction fluid, typewriter ribbons, stamp pads, copiers (dry and wet), chalk, rubber products, adhesive notes, books (mold and dust), and paper shredders.

This list was narrowed to blueprint machines (ammonia), dry copiers (ozone, toner dust, and Voce), wet copiers (Voce), pens/markers, cleaners for electronic equipment, adhesives/glues (toxice), and paper by considering: -khown problem products, product function, type and magnitude of product emissions, and exposure to emissions.

Available emissions data indicate that the use of office equipment (such

The workgroup identified the following office equipment and products as

Sussested Pollution Prevention Research Stratesies. The workgroup suggested that the first steps in office equipment IAQ/pollution prevention research should be an assessment of which office equipment/products pose the greatest threat to the quality of indoor air and the prioritization o f .

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research needs. The primary use of this information would be to guide EPA's research. Secondary uses of this information would be by manufacturers in their product development process and by consumers when making purchase decisions. The EPA would prioritize research needs guided by the findings of the assessment. The assessment would include:

0 An evaluation of existing information/perceptions; 0 An evaluation of existing emission data; and 0 The development of a toxicological/exposure risk scale for office

The workgroup then suggested the following specific studies for office

products.

equipment/products:

Emissions from blueprint machines and analyses of possible process modifications to reduce emissions; Ozone emissions from dry printers and copiers; Toner emissions and analyses of toner formulations, the fate of toner emissions, and the possibility of increasing toner transfer efficiencies; Investigation into office product recycling and the secondary toner market; Evaluation of emissions from equipment "bakeouts;" Evaluation of the hazard potential from chalk dust; Emissions from propellants and other dispensing agents; and Paper proliferation in the office and assessment of the need for so much paper, the identification of the institutional causes for this need, and what new or old technologies could be employed to reduce paper use (e.g., full-page screens, Electronic mail, voice mail).

The workgroup also recommended the development of comparative or alternative equipment and products that are lower emitting. The EPA could identify and investigate the methods that companies are using to develop "green" products, encouraging other companies to use these methods in their product development. Specifically, the following should be considered when looking at product development:

0 Redesigning aerosol systems for lower emissions; 0 Designing products so that they are easily upgraded; 0 Conducting a cooperative study between EPA and industry to look at

the relationship between dematerialization (e.g., miniaturization of computers) and emissions;

0 Conducting a study of the evolution of a specific type of office equipment (i.e., a series of laser printers) to gain insights into using pollution prevention to reduce emissions;

0 Evaluating the need for certain types of office equipment/products and determining if other lower emitting products perform the same function; and

0 Understanding cross media impacts, energy impacts, and toxicity and flammability issues.

When evaluating the benefit6 of product development and substitution it will be important to identify technology or products that may be phased out so that resources are not wasted on outdated technology. For example, the replacement of blueprint machines with computer assisted designs is anticipated, but not in the near future. In addition, double-sided copiers and full-page computer screens are examples of relatively new technologies that may reduce the use of paper and thereby reduce emissions from paper in the office.

-- The workgroup recommended that EPA and the Department of Energy work with industry so that pollution prevention and energy conservation can be incorporated into the development of new equipment. The color printer and laser printer industries are examples of emerging technologies in which this partnership could be beneficial.

In the area of test methods and emission studies, the workgroup found that there was a need for:

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0 The development of standard test methods for measuring emissions

0 and toxicity; and Cosponsored research/studies between the EPA and industry for studying emissions and public perceptions. should include: emission characterization, emission magnitudes, chemical transformations and interactions with emissions from other sources, and product aging.

The emissions research

Finally, the workgroup recognized that consumer attitudes are critical to effecting change. The EPA should provide information to consumers so that they can purchase low emitting products.

Textiles Workgroup

content (includes hides and skins)." The following six primary classes of textiles were defined by end-use: 1) apparel; 2) home furnishings; 3) floor coverings; 4) domestic fabrics (e.g., bed sheets); 5) industrial; and 6) special applications (e.g., military).

discussed the following research opportunities for applying pollution prevention techniques to reduce indoor air emissions from textiles:

The workgroup defined textiles as "anything with a fibrous and polymer

Sussested Pollution Prevention Research Strateuies. The workgroup

0

0

0

0

0

0 0

0

Measure primary emissions from textiles and create an emissions database. Studies should investigate the following areas: pure fabrics, finishes, dyeing processes, process chemical use, end uselrequired functions, assernbly/fabrication, modeling, and aging. Investigate source/sink behavior of textiles and provide end-use advice, purchasing requirements, realistic end uses/combinations, and modeling results. Understand exposures and health effects (e.g., averagelpeak exposures, chronic/acute effects, set priorities/identify targets, end-use issues for sensitive populations). Conduct life cycle analyses considering use patterns and exposures, consumer and end-use issues, aging, maintenance, and raw materials. Research textile finishes (e.g., formaldehyde, fire retardants) and the option of using mechanical rather than chemical finishes. Research pollutant adsorption/desorption from textile surfaces. Research process changes; e.g., pressure drying rather than atmospheric drying. Investigate process design changes; e.g., use optimally designed machines so that fabric does not need to be sized for different uses, eliminating the need for chemicals used in sizing.

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CONCLUSIONS

The Workshop brought together about 60 individuals with expertise in IAQ, pollution prevention, and/or industry. The Workshop goals were to identify major IAQ issues and their pollution prevention opportunities, and to suggest research strategies for IAQ/pollution prevention. The participants discussed the application of pollution prevention to reducing indoor air pollution in the following topic areas: adhesives and sealants, biocontaminants (ad hoc group), building materials, consumer products, furniture, office equipment, and textiles. Conclusions from each of the seven workgroups are summarized below, together with an overall summary of the Workshop. The summaries are not meant as a comprehensive listing or ranking of AEERL research priorities, but only as summaries of the topics discussed by Workshop participants.

-- I and caulks/sealants: material substitution; material elimination (e.g., eliminating unnecessary chemicals); innovative technologies (e.g., producing a carpet with an attached stick-on pad, producing adhesives without solvents); process substitution (e.g., Velcro); and packaging reduction.

on: improvement of biocontaminant measurement techniques; development of

The following pollution prevention options were suggested for adhesives

The biocontaminants workgroup concluded that research should concentrate

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building codes to avoid places in the building that encourage biocontaminant growth; development of safe biocides; developent of effective building cleaning schedules; and education of the public.

The building materials workgroup discussed vinyl and fabric wall coverings, W A C systems, interior panels, ceiling tiles, and electrical wire jacketing. General research suggestions included: research on both the source characteristics of a material and on the potential sink characteristics; coating or sealing exposed surfaces to prevent the release of VOCs; easy-to- clean designs; and consideration of total surface area of material used, the toxicity of emitted compounds, and the emission mechanisms (e.g., physical, chemical, thermal).

packaging, delivery, storage, and disposal iesuee; consumer-based performance standards development; total cost benefit assessment; labeling; consumer education on proper product use; source characterization; and test method development.

research by the furniture workgroup: finish coatings, upholstery, institutional and residential furniture, and cushioning. Research should identify all emitters and emission rates, then the critical emissions and products. The next step is to identify manufacturing changes that will reduce emissions. Both large chamber studies to characterize emissions from whole pieces of furniture and smaller chamber studies that could characterize emissions from furniture components were suggested.

Pollution prevention suggestions for consumer products included:

The following products were suggested as potential candidates for

The office equipment workgroup suggested researching: blueprint machines; dry printers and copiers; toner emissions, increasing toner transfer efficiencies, and the secondary toner market; equipment bakeouts; propellants and other dispensing agents; and paper proliferation in the office. Emissions research should include: emission characterization, emission magnitudes, chemical transformations and interactions with emissions from other sources, and product aging. The workgroup also recommended redesigning aerosol systems for lower emissions; designing products so that they are easily remanufactured; studying the relationship between dematerialization and emissions; evaluating the need for certain types of office equipment/products and determining if lower emitting products perform the same function; and understanding cross media and energy impacts and toxicity and flammability issues.

The textiles workgroup suggested the following research opportunities: measure primary emissions from textiles and create an emissions database; investigate source/sink behavior; understand exposures and health effects; conduct life-cycle analyses considering use patterns and exposures, consumer and end-use issues, aging, maintenance, and raw materials; finishes (e.g., formaldehyde, fire retardants) and the option of using mechanical rather than chemical finishes; process changes (e.g., pressure drying rather than atmospheric drying); and process design changes (e.g., use optimally designed machines so that fabric does not need to be sized for different uses).

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In summary, the major themes from the Workshop were:

e There is a desire for EPA to identify the major IAQ problems. Many participants focussed discuesions on the relative importance of different IAQ sources.

e Making the link between IAQ and pollution prevention was much more difficult for participants than anticipated. More specific examples applying pollution prevention to IAQ would probably be helpful in making this link. The workgroups consistently identified a need for more emissions testing, methods development, modelling, coneumer education, and source ranking.

developing a pollution prevention research strategy.

biocontaminant growth is important. The Workshop served to bring together people that typically do not interact with one another: IAQ, pollution prevention, and industry.

e

e The issue of proprietary information must be coneidered in

0 Participants felt that research directed at preventing

e

REFERENCES

1. E.M. Shaver, "Pollution prevention for cleaner air: EPA's Air and Energy Engineering Research Laboratory," Pollution Prevention Review, Winter 1992-93, Vol. 3, No. 1, pp. 41-50 (1992).

2. W . G . Tucker, "Building with low-emitting materials and products: where db we stand?" in Proceedinas of the 5th International Conference on Indoor Air Quality and Climate, Vol. 3, Indoor Air '90, Toronto, 1990, pp. 251-256.

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