Numerical modeling of VOC emissions from ozone reactions with human-worn clothing in an aircraft cabin

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are indoor air pollutants with many adverse health effects for humans. Ozone reactions with human surfaces (skin, hair, and clothing) are an important source of VOCs in the indoor air, especially in aircraft cabins because of their typically high ozone concentrations and occupant densities. Therefore, it is important to study the ozoneinitiated VOC emissions from ozone reactions with passengers in an aircraft cabin and assess their resulting exposure. This investigation developed empirical models for computing the emissions of several major VOCs, including acetone, 4-oxopentanal (4-OPA), nonanal, and decanal, from ozone reactions with human-worn clothing. The empirical models were used to compute the contributions of human surfaces to these VOCs in an aircraft cabin mockup under different environmental conditions. The computed results were then compared with the corresponding experimental data obtained in the mockup. The models can provide rough estimates of ozone-initiated VOC concentrations. The empirical models were integrated into a CFD analysis, and the results showed that the levels of ozone-initiated VOCs were significantly enhanced in the breathing zones of the passengers. Therefore, to accurately assess passenger exposure to VOCs, their concentrations in the breathing zones should be used.