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Identification of MVOCs Produced by Coniophora puteana and Poria placenta Growing on WPC Boards by Using Subtraction Mass Spectra

Summary

This research examined how fungi growing on wood-plastic composite building materials produce airborne chemicals that can affect indoor air quality and human health. The study identified specific chemical signatures produced by different fungi species and showed how these emissions change over time. Impacts on everyday life: • Helps identify early warning signs of fungal growth in buildings before visible damage occurs • Improves understanding of chemicals that contribute to ‘sick building syndrome’ symptoms • Aids in developing better indoor air quality monitoring methods • Informs better building material choices and maintenance practices • Contributes to healthier indoor environments in homes and offices

Background

Volatile fungal metabolites (MVOCs) are responsible for various odors and may contribute to ‘sick building syndrome’ (SBS), negatively affecting building health. Wood-polymer composites (WPCs) are increasingly used in indoor building applications but there is limited research on MVOCs produced when fungi colonize these materials. Understanding these emissions is important for indoor air quality assessment.

Objective

To analyze and identify the microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs) produced by two wood-decay fungi species (Coniophora puteana and Poria placenta) growing on wood-polymer composite boards, using thermal desorption-gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. The study aimed to establish emission profiles at various stages of decay and identify species-specific compounds.

Results

The highest MVOC emissions were observed after two weeks of incubation: 1045 μg/m3 for Coniophora puteana and 1686 μg/m3 for Poria placenta. Aldehydes and carboxylic acids were the predominant compounds identified. Several species-specific MVOCs were identified for each fungus. The compound 1-octen-3-ol was detected as a key marker for active fungal growth.

Conclusion

The study successfully demonstrated a method for measuring MVOCs using subtracted mass spectra. The emissions varied with growth phase, with peak metabolite production at two weeks. 1-octen-3-ol was identified as the main indicator of fungal exposure in indoor environments, with some compounds showing association with SBS symptoms. The research provides valuable information about expected metabolites from WPCs affected by microbial growth.
  • Published in:International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health,
  • Study Type:Laboratory Research,
  • Source: 10.3390/ijerph16142499
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