Research Topic: indoor air quality

Intermittent low-dose far-UVC irradiation inhibits growth of common mold below threshold limit value

This study shows that a special type of ultraviolet light called far-UVC, operating at 222 nanometers, can effectively stop common household mold from growing. The light works best when it cycles on and off throughout the day, and importantly, the doses used are safe enough for people to be in the same room. This technology could help prevent mold problems in homes and hospitals without requiring chemicals or forcing people to leave the area.

Read More »

A bibliometric analysis of fungal volatile organic compounds

Fungi release distinctive smells made up of volatile compounds that help them communicate with plants, bacteria, and other organisms. These fungal smell chemicals have grown from being studied mainly in wine fermentation to being explored for helping crops grow better, fighting plant diseases naturally, and creating food flavors without chemicals. This research shows that understanding how fungi use these smell chemicals could lead to more sustainable farming practices and natural alternatives to harmful pesticides.

Read More »

Diversity and functions of fungal VOCs with special reference to the multiple bioactivities of the mushroom alcohol

Fungi release various volatile compounds (VOCs) that have different effects on organisms and the environment. The most notable fungal VOC is 1-octen-3-ol, also called mushroom alcohol, which gives mushrooms their distinctive smell. This compound can inhibit fungal growth, repel insects, and help control plant diseases, but at high concentrations it may be toxic to humans and trigger immune responses. Scientists use fruit flies as a model to study how these fungal compounds affect health.

Read More »

Designers join scientists to make living architecture a reality

Scientists and designers are working together to create buildings made with living organisms like yeast and fungi that can clean the air, detect hazards, and even repair themselves. These living walls work similar to plants, requiring water and nutrients while providing benefits like removing harmful chemicals and improving air quality. This approach combines nature with architecture to create healthier, more sustainable homes and buildings for the future.

Read More »

From mold to mycotoxins: an LC–MS/MS method for quantifying airborne mycotoxins in indoor environments

Mold in water-damaged buildings produces toxic compounds called mycotoxins that can become airborne and be breathed in. This study developed a precise laboratory method to detect and measure 29 different mycotoxins in indoor air samples. Researchers tested the method in three real mold-infested buildings and successfully identified seven different mycotoxins, proving the method works well even when toxin levels are very low. This breakthrough helps determine whether moldy indoor environments pose serious health risks to workers and occupants.

Read More »
Scroll to Top