Use of a surface emissions trap for enhancing the indoor air quality

Unsatisfactory indoor air quality (IAQ) can result from emissions of volatile organic compounds from the materials of the building. A surface emissions trap (cTrap) can be used to stop such emissions thus preventing them from reaching the indoor air. The present study concerned an apartment where the tenants experienced skin and mucous membrane irritation due to moisture-driven emissions from the glue used to attach the PVC flooring onto the concrete slab. The existing PVC flooring was removed and the flexible cTrap cloth was applied on the floor. On top of the cTrap was laid a laminate flooring. A clear improvement in the perceived IAQ was reported by the tenants already a few hours after the cTrap installation. Thus a cTrap installation may be an efficient means in restoring the IAQ in buildings e.g. following water damage. (Less)