Experimental investigation of VOC influence on cognitive function at low concentration in a full-fresh air environmental chamber

Indoor air quality (IAQ) influences individual physical and mental health. Laboratory studies conducted in environmental chambers have shown that IAQ parameters such as temperature, humidity, CO 2 , volatile organic compounds (VOCs) may impact participants’ productivity cognitive performance. To better understand the influence of VOC at low concentration on function, this study applied a controlled chamber with full fresh system high airflow rate (1443 m 3 /h total). Toluene, typical commonly found Chinese domestic environment, was evaporated, mixed main supply duct before being sent into chamber. Neurocognitive tasks, electroencephalogram (EEG) were used to evaluate function health participants under different toluene exposure levels. Results factors reflected advantage high-airflow-rate background factor control, which is essential for research aiming indoor pollutants concentrations. The experiment results indicated recommended level World Health Organization (WHO), 0.26 mg/m did not lead discomfort or significant decline task performance but triggered changes EEG power density patterns.