Predicted Classroom VOC Concentrations
VOC concentrations in the standard and modified classrooms were estimated from the material VOC emission rates assuming the classrooms would be ventilated at 15 cubic feet per minute (cfm) per occupant. The use of the alternate materials in the modified classrooms was predicted to measurably reduce the concentrations of formaldehyde and 6 other toxic VOCs versus the standard classrooms (Table 22). The use of a Nylon 6,6 versus a Nylon 6 carpet at School B was expected to eliminate the caprolactam source. The use of the mineral fiber ceiling panels with no formaldehyde emissions was expected to reduce the formaldehyde concentrations by half to approximately 4 ppb. The remainder of the formaldehyde was anticipated to derive from the plywood subflooring. The Teflon-coated vinyl fabric covered wall panels were anticipated to reduce the concentrations of vinyl acetate, 2-methyl-1-pyrrolidinone, acetaldehyde and phenol. However, the concentration of toluene was predicted to increase by about 1 ppb due to the use of this material.