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Research Article

Assessment of indoor and outdoor formaldehyde, total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), and particulate matter (PM2.5, and PM10) levels in Kalasin, Thailand

[version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]
PUBLISHED 30 Nov 2023
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This article is included in the QUVAE Research and Publications gateway.

Abstract

Background

This study sought to determine how much formaldehyde, TVOCs (total volatile organic compounds), and particulate matter (PM2.5, and PM10) were present in the air inside and outdoors at seven distinct locations in Kalasin Province.

Methods

The stations that were chosen comprised roadways of importance, neighborhoods where people live, shopping centers, motorcycle repair shops, gas stations, industrial zones, and rural areas. A gas detector with four sensors was used to measure formaldehyde, PM2.5, TVOC, temperature, and humidity levels. Particulate samplers were used specifically for measuring PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations. The formaldehyde and TVOC sensors were utilized to measure the concentrations of specific air contaminants.

Results

These stations from important roads, residential neighborhoods, shopping centers, motorcycle repair shops, gas stations, industrial zones, and rural locations had formaldehyde of 0.0207, 0.0239, 0.1892, 0.1893, 0.0273, 0.0262, and 0.0409 mg/m3, respectively. It was discovered that TVOC values ranged from 0.0848 to 0.990 to 0.8466 to 0.1944 to 0.1188 to 0.108 to 0.1708 mg/m3. The measurements for PM 2.5 were 4.7778, 4.2222, 5.0000, 3.4444, 4.7778, 5.7778, and 6.6667 μg/m3 at the roads, residential neighborhoods, shopping centers, motorcycle repair shops, gas stations, industrial zones, and rural locations. The measurements for PM10 were 4.7778, 4.0000, 5.0000, 3.1111, 5.0000, 6.0000, and 8.0000 μg/m3, respectively. According to the research, formaldehyde levels in stores and motorbike maintenance facilities are higher than the Thai Air Standard. The only TVOC concentration that was found to be above the allowable limit was in shopping centers. However, despite the rural area station showing slightly increased levels, all stations met the PM2.5 and PM10 air quality criteria.

Conclusions

People who breathe polluted air face both short- and long-term health concerns, underscoring the significance of spreading awareness of this problem.

Keywords

Kalasin Province, air quality, TVOC, PM2.5, and PM10

Introduction

For the health and wellbeing of people, the quality of the ambient air is crucial. The exposure to pollutants such as formaldehyde, total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs), and particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) has been associated with health consequences, including respiratory and cardiovascular problems. (Palmisani et al., 2021). For the purpose of evaluating air quality and putting into place the necessary mitigation strategies (Olalekan et al. 2018), it is essential to comprehend the amounts of these pollutants both inside and outside (Palmisani et al., 2021). To protect human health and advance general well-being, ambient air quality is crucial (Olalekan et al., 2018, 2020). Human health may suffer as a result of exposure to airborne pollutants such as formaldehyde, TVOCs), PM2.5 and PM10. These contaminants have been linked to a variety of harmful health effects (Blessy et al., 2023), including cardiovascular disorders, respiratory illnesses, and other systemic effects. It’s essential to comprehend the concentrations of these pollutants both inside and outside in order to evaluate the air quality and put appropriate mitigation measures in place (Raimi et al., 2020; Laughlin et al., 2020). A typical indoor air pollutant called formaldehyde is released through burning of building materials, home goods, and other things (Jonah, 2020). Long-term exposure to formaldehyde has been linked to an increased risk of developing several cancers and can irritate the eyes, throat, and respiratory system (Huang et al., 2018). TVOCs include a variety of organic chemicals, such as benzene, toluene, xylene, and other volatile substances, and can come from paints, cleaning products, building materials, and other sources (Blessy et al., 2023). Numerous health problems, including allergic responses and respiratory irritation, have been related to exposure to TVOCs (Nassar, 2021). Fine particles suspended in the air are referred to as particulate matter (PM), while PM2.5 and PM10 refer to particles having dimensions of less than 2.5 and 10 micrometers, respectively (Huang et al., 2020). These particles can come from combustion, industrial pollutants, car exhaust, and dust and pollen from the environment. Deep respiratory system penetration by PM2.5 and PM10 particles might result in respiratory and cardiovascular issues (Laughlin, Hains, & Horner, 2020; Zhang, Srinivasan, & Ganesan, 2021).

This study seeks to shed light on the degree of air pollution in the area by measuring the levels of formaldehyde, TVOCs, PM2.5, and PM10 in the air in Kalasin Province. The findings of this analysis will help identify pollution hotspots and design specialized mitigation tactics to enhance air quality. In the end, the discoveries will aid in preserving the citizens of Kalasin Province’s health and wellbeing.

Methods

In order to accomplish the goals of this study, seven different stations representing various habitats and activities were chosen in Kalasin Province. The stations that were chosen comprised roadways of importance, neighborhoods where people live, shopping centers, motorcycle repair shops, gas stations, industrial zones and rural areas stations. At each location, air samples were taken both indoors and outside using established monitoring methods. While PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations were assessed using particulate samplers, formaldehyde and TVOC concentrations were evaluated using the proper analytical techniques (Palmisani et al., 2021; Laughlin et al., 2020). To obtain representative data, the measurements were made over a predetermined time frame with air detector JJ013127 (Four sensors were used to ensure accuracy; formaldehyde sensor, PM2.5 sensor, TVOC sensor temperature and - humidity sensor).

Study areas

In order to accomplish the goals of this study, seven different stations representing various habitats and activities were chosen in Kalasin Province. These stations comprised key roadways, residential neighborhoods, shopping malls, motorcycle repair businesses, and gas stations. The selected stations in the Kalasin Province were strategically placed across the region. The Key Roadway Location was located at a longitude of 103.5234° E and latitude of 16.4248° N. The Residential Neighborhood was at a longitude of 103.4851° E and a latitude of 16.4023° N. The Shopping Mall was positioned at a longitude of 103.5156° E and latitude of 16.4107° N. The Motorcycle Repair Business was located at a longitude of 103.5122° E and a latitude of 16.4279° N. Finally, the Gas Station was positioned at a longitude of 103.4979° E and latitude of 16.4215° N. These geographical coordinates provide valuable insights into the spatial distribution of stations across the province, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the study’s findings.

Station 1 roadways of importance: In order to evaluate the air quality in places that are significantly impacted by car emissions, this station was situated on a major road with heavy vehicular traffic.

Station 2 neighborhoods where people live: A station was placed in a residential area to investigate the air quality in those areas while considering potential sources of pollutants from surrounding sources and household activities.

Station 3 shopping centers: To assess the quality of the air in areas with significant pedestrian traffic and potential sources of indoor air pollution, such as retail stores and food courts, this station was placed in a commercial location, specifically within a shopping center.

Station 4 motorcycle repair shops: In a motorcycle repair shop, a station was set up to monitor the air quality in areas where vehicle maintenance work may be taking place, which could be contributing to the release of pollutants.

Station 5 gas stations: Due to its proximity to a fueling station, this station was chosen to examine possible emissions from gasoline and diesel fuels around fueling facilities.

Station 6 industrial zones: To evaluate the air quality in areas impacted by industrial processes and emissions, which may include pollutants from manufacturing, construction, or other industrial activities, a station was set up in an industrial zone.

Station 7 rural areas: In order to evaluate the air quality in less urbanized areas, this station was placed in a rural location, considering the potential impacts of agricultural practices, open burning, and natural sources of pollutants.

The research intends to give a thorough understanding of the air quality and pollution sources in various locations within Kalasin Province by incorporating these varied study regions. The chosen stations allowed for both indoor and outdoor air quality assessments, considering various human activities and probable sources of formaldehyde, TVOCs, PM2.5, and PM10 as well.

Gas detector analysis

At each of the chosen locations, air samples were taken both inside and outside using recognized monitoring techniques. A gas detector with four sensors, type JJ013127, was used to assure precise measurements. The formaldehyde, PM2.5, and TVOC sensors, in addition to temperature and humidity sensors, were part of the gas detector (Palmisani et al., 2021; Laughlin et al., 2020). Particulate sampler (TEI-121) was used in each location to measure the PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations. These samplers made it possible to collect airborne particles of particular sizes, allowing the measurement of PM2.5 and PM10 levels. The formaldehyde sensor and TVOC sensor of the gas detector were used to measure the formaldehyde and TVOC concentrations. Certain sensors are intended to identify and measure the concentrations of certain particular air contaminants (DeSouza, 2022). A temperature and humidity sensor were also built within the gas detector to provide additional environmental information. Because temperature and humidity levels can affect how pollutants behave and persist in the air, measuring them helps us better understand the state of the air. The measurements were made over a predefined period of time i.e., the samples were collected between 6 am to 9 am, obtaining representative samples of the air quality at each location, in order to guarantee the reliability and accuracy of the data. By allowing for the measurement of formaldehyde, TVOC, PM2.5, and PM10 levels both indoors and outside, (Blessy et al., 2023; Zhang, Srinivasan, and Ganesan, 2021; Abdullah et al., 2018) this thorough gas detector examination provided important information about the levels of air pollution in the research areas of Kalasin Province.

Gas detector method for type JJ013127 with four sensors:

The gas detector (JJ013127) had four sensors: formaldehyde, PM2.5, TVOC, temperature, and humidity sensors. These sensors collectively provide accurate readings of air quality in various environments. PM2.5 sensors use advanced optical or laser scattering techniques to detect and quantify fine particulate matter in air. This information provides insights into air quality and the potential presence of harmful particulates. The TVOC sensor detects various volatile organic compounds in the air and converts their concentrations into electrical signals. This signal aids in assessing air quality and potential sources of pollution. The gas detector was equipped with temperature and humidity sensors that provided additional contextual information about the environment. These sensors measure the ambient temperature and relative humidity of the air. The readings from these sensors are valuable for understanding the comfort level and the overall environmental conditions.

  • a. Formaldehyde Electrochemical Sensor in Gas Detector: The formaldehyde sensor in the gas detector makes use of the formaldehyde galvanic reaction concept. The electrical current generated by a chemical interaction between formaldehyde molecules and the sensor’s electrodes is measured by galvanic sensors. As a result of this interaction, the output signal of the sensor and the level of formaldehyde in the air exhibit a highly linear connection.

    The formaldehyde sensor also uses multilayer filtration technology to increase its accuracy. This technology makes it easier to more precisely capture airborne formaldehyde molecules. A considerable resistance to influence from other non-formaldehyde compounds is also included into the sensor, ensuring that measurements are precise and dependable.

  • b. Gas Detector Infrared PM2.5, PM10 Sensor: To measure the concentrations of fine particulate matter in the air, the gas detector’s PM2.5 and PM10 sensors use infrared technology. Infrared sensors work by measuring the amount of light absorbed by airborne particles. The sensor can determine the concentrations of PM2.5 and PM10 particles in the environment since the amount of infrared light that is absorbed is directly connected to their concentration.

  • c. The TVOC sensor is used with gas detectors to measure and identify the presence of different volatile organic chemicals in the air. These substances may be released from a number of products, including household goods, industrial processes, and building materials. The TVOC sensor measures the total concentration of these components to help determine the overall air quality.

Results

Different levels of formaldehyde, TVOCs, PM2.5, and PM10 were found in the air samples from the seven stations that were chosen (Suwanaruang, 2023). The formaldehyde concentrations that were detected varied from 0.0207 to 0.0409 mg/m3, with the construction road station having the highest concentration. The gas station had the highest TVOC content, which varied from 0.0848 to 0.1708 mg/m3. The measured concentrations for PM2.5 ranged from 4.2222 to 6.6667 μg/m3, whereas those for PM10 were 4.0000 to 8.0000 μg/m3. Formaldehyde concentrations in stores and motorbike repair shops were above the allowed level, according to the Thai Air Standard (Huang et al., 2018). The TVOC concentration in stores was also discovered to be greater than the allowed standard. However, all stations, with the exception of the road station, which had slightly higher levels of PM2.5 and PM10, met the air quality guidelines (Huang et al., 2018).

Formaldehyde

The seven sites in Kalasin Province that were chosen for the investigation of formaldehyde concentrations showed a range of levels. At the roadways of importance, neighborhoods, shopping malls, motorcycle repair shops, gas stations, industrial zones, and rural areas, the observed formaldehyde concentrations were 0.021, 0.024, 0.189, 0.189, 0.027, 0.026, and 0.041 mg/m3 (Figure 1).

fb22f808-9ceb-4e6e-a3ee-6ba45bcaf538_figure1.gif

Figure 1. Comparative analysis of formaldehyde concentrations in different research areas of Kalasin Province.

The study’s shopping malls and motorcycle maintenance shops had the greatest formaldehyde concentrations. The formaldehyde levels in these organizations were 0.189 mg/m3. This suggests that compared to other research settings, people visiting or working in shopping malls and motorcycle repair shops may be exposed to higher levels of formaldehyde. Between 0.021 and 0.041 mg/m3, the formaldehyde concentrations in residential areas, gas stations, industrial zones, and rural areas were relatively lower. These values fell within the permissible range established by air quality guidelines. The findings emphasize the value of keeping an eye on formaldehyde levels in particular locations, like shopping malls and motorcycle repair shops. The increased formaldehyde concentrations found in these places indicate the need for focused mitigation techniques to lower formaldehyde emissions and safeguard visitors’ health and wellbeing. The significance and potential health effects of the measured formaldehyde levels in the various research regions can be further understood through additional analysis, such as statistical testing and comparison with air quality standards. Overall, the findings show that formaldehyde concentrations varied throughout the studied locales, with higher levels found in shopping malls and motorcycle repair businesses compared to other places in Kalasin Province.

TVOC

Differences were found among the TVOC concentrations at the seven stations in Kalasin Province that were chosen. At the roads of importance, neighborhoods, retail malls, motorcycle repair shops, petrol stations, industrial zones, and rural areas, the observed TVOC values were 0.085, 0.099, 0.847, 0.119, 0.109, 0.134 and 0.171 mg/m3 (Figure 2).

fb22f808-9ceb-4e6e-a3ee-6ba45bcaf538_figure2.gif

Figure 2. The variations in total volatile organic compounds (TVOC) concentrations across multiple research regions within Kalasin Province.

The research areas’ retail malls had the highest TVOC content, with an average of 0.847 mg/m3. This suggests that those present at shopping centers may be exposed to more TVOCs than people in the study’s other settings. From 0.085 to 0.194 mg/m3, TVOC concentrations were found in neighborhoods, industrial zones, motorcycle repair shops, gas stations, and rural areas. These values fell within the permissible ranges (0.1 mg/m3 to 1 mg/m3) set by the standards for air quality (Huang et al., 2020).

The findings emphasize the value of keeping an eye on TVOC levels, particularly in settings like shopping malls. The greater quantities seen in retail malls point to the potential presence of indoor pollution sources, such as building supplies, cleaning products, or other items used in commercial operations. The relevance and potential health effects of the reported TVOC levels in the various research regions can be further understood through additional investigation, such as statistical testing and comparison with pertinent standards. Overall, the findings show that TVOC concentrations varied among the study areas that were chosen, with shopping malls showing the highest concentrations of TVOCs in comparison to other places in Kalasin Province.

PM 2.5

The seven stations in Kalasin Province that were chosen for examination of PM2.5 (particulate matter having a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less) concentrations showed a range of levels. The observed PM2.5 concentrations were 4.778 μg/m3 at the roads of importance, 4.222 μg/m3 at the neighborhoods, 5.000 g/m3 at shopping malls, 3.444 μg/m3 at motorcycle repair shops, 4.778 μg/m3 at petrol stations, 5.778 μg/m3 at industrial zones, and 6.667 μg/m3 at rural areas (Figure 3).

fb22f808-9ceb-4e6e-a3ee-6ba45bcaf538_figure3.gif

Figure 3. Coefficient of PM2.5 concentrations in different research zones across Kalasin Province at different time intervals.

The rural section of the study had the greatest PM2.5 concentration, which measured 6.667 μg/m3. This suggests that people who live or visit rural areas may be exposed to higher levels of PM2.5 than people who visit other study locations. The air quality in certain areas can be concerning. PM2.5 concentrations ranging from 3.444 to 5.778 μg/m3 have been detected in industrial zones, residences, shopping malls, motorcycle repair shops, and gas stations. These values fell within the permissible range (0.1 mg/m3 to 1 mg/m3) established by air quality guidelines (Huang et al., 2020).

The findings emphasize how crucial it is to keep an eye on PM2.5 levels, especially in rural regions where greater concentrations were found. The high levels of PM2.5 in rural areas may be caused by elements like agricultural activities, biomass burning, or road dust. Deeper insights into the relevance and potential health effects of the measured PM2.5 levels in the various research regions can be gained through additional analysis, including statistical testing and comparison with pertinent guidelines.

Overall, the findings show differences in PM2.5 concentrations between the chosen research sites, with rural areas in Kalasin Province having the highest concentrations.

PM 10

The seven sites in Kalasin Province that were chosen for investigation of PM10 (particulate matter having a diameter of 10 micrometers or less) concentrations showed a range of levels. The observed PM10 concentrations at the highways of significance was 4.778 μg/m3, neighborhoods 4.000 μg/m3, shopping centers 5.000 μg/m3, motorcycle repair shops 3.111 μg/m3, petrol stations 5.000 μg/m3, industrial zones 6.000 μg/m3, and rural areas 8.000 μg/m3 (Figure 4).

fb22f808-9ceb-4e6e-a3ee-6ba45bcaf538_figure4.gif

Figure 4. Comparative analysis of PM10 concentrations in different research areas of Kalasin Province.

The rural area of the study had the highest PM10 concentration (8.000 μg/m3) of all the research locations. This suggests that, in comparison to other research locations, those who live or visit rural areas may be exposed to higher amounts of PM10. The range of PM10 concentrations in industrial zones, communities, shopping malls, motorcycle repair shops, and gas stations was 3.111 to 6.000 g/m3. These values fell within the permissible range (0.1 mg/m3 to 1 mg/m3) established by the air quality guidelines (Huang et al., 2020).

The findings emphasize how crucial it is to keep an eye on PM10 levels, especially in rural areas where greater amounts were found. Rural areas may have higher amounts of PM10 due to factors including industrial activity, unpaved roads, or agricultural practices. Deeper insights into the relevance and potential health effects of the reported PM10 levels in the various research regions can be gained through additional analysis, including statistical testing and comparison with pertinent guidelines.

Overall, the findings show differences in PM10 concentrations amongst the chosen research regions, with rural areas in Kalasin Province having the greatest concentrations.

Based on the collected data, the temperature and humidity levels varied across the seven selected stations in the Kalasin Province. Roadways of importance had a temperature of 30.5°C and a humidity level of 65.2%. Neighborhoods where people live had a temperature of 28.3°C and a humidity level of 68.7%. The shopping centers had a temperature of 29.8°C and a humidity level of 63.9%. Motorcycle repair shops had a temperature of 31.2°C and a humidity level of 61.5%. The gas stations had a temperature of 30.7°C and a humidity level of 59.8%. The industrial zones had a temperature of 32.0°C and a humidity level of 59.8%. Rural areas had a temperature of 27.6°C and a humidity level of 55.3%. These temperature and humidity readings provide important information on the environmental conditions at each location, which can affect the behavior of pollutants and overall air quality. The study primarily focused on formaldehyde, TVOCs, PM2.5, and PM10 levels, including temperature and humidity data, to enhance our understanding of air quality in Kalasin Province.

Discussion

Elevated formaldehyde and TVOC levels in some facilities highlight how crucial effective ventilation and management procedures are in lowering indoor air pollution (Gram, 2019). Exposure to these pollutants can be reduced through actions including regular air exchange (Aslam, Javed, & Reyaz, 2020), the use of low-emission materials, and efficient exhaust systems (Vardoulakis et al., 2020). Additionally, traffic emissions may be to blame for the slightly elevated PM2.5 levels at the road station, highlighting the need of putting in place traffic control measures and encouraging environmentally friendly transportation alternatives (Martonoş, Matei, & Roşu, 2020). To educate the local population about the potential health dangers linked to air pollution, awareness campaigns and public education programs are essential. To create and implement efficient methods to enhance the quality of the air in Kalasin Province, cooperation between pertinent agencies, enterprises, and inhabitants is crucial (Sharma et al., 2022). Overall, this study emphasizes the necessity of ongoing monitoring, the adoption of mitigation measures, and public education in order to guarantee improved air quality and protect the population’s health in Kalasin Province (Prasasti, Haryanto, & Latif, 2021). The information supplied shows the concentrations of TVOC, PM2.5, and PM10 at various places. Formaldehyde is a colorless gas with a strong odor (Nishihama et al., 2021). Seven separate locations were tested for formaldehyde levels: major thoroughfares, residential neighborhoods, shopping malls, motorcycle repair shops, gas stations, industrial zones, and rural areas (Wu et al., 2018; Cavaliere et al., 2018). Based on the measurements, varying concentrations of formaldehyde were observed in different areas. The data show that levels of 0.021, 0.024, 0.189, 0.189, 0.027, 0.026, and 0.041 were detected in key roadways, residential neighborhoods, shopping malls, motorcycle repair businesses, and gas stations respectively. Shopping centers and motorcycle repair businesses have higher levels of formaldehyde than those in other places. Interestingly, the same seven areas were also tested for TVOC concentrations. The results showed that the values varied, with the highest and lowest concentrations being 0.847 and 0.085, respectively. Once more, the biggest concentration of TVOC was seen in shopping complexes. According to the measurements of PM2.5, the concentrations were 4.222, 5.000, 3.444, 4.778, 5.778, and 6.667 μg/m3 at the seven locations. In this instance, rural areas registered the greatest levels of PM2.5. The PM10 concentrations at seven different locations were 4.778, 4.000, 5.000, 3.111, 5.000, 6.000, and 8.000 μg/m3. Figure 4 shows that rural areas once more had the highest PM10 concentrations. These results demonstrate the differing concentrations of formaldehyde, TVOC, PM2.5, and PM10 at various locations (Liu et al., 2019; Zhang et al., 2021). TVOC and formaldehyde levels were consistently higher in shopping malls and motorcycle service shops. Additionally, PM2.5 and PM10 concentrations were highest in rural areas (Hoque et al., 2020; Olalekan et al., 2018). Given that exposure to high concentrations of these pollutants might have negative impacts on health and the environment, it is crucial to take these data into account (Zoran et al., 2020; Cichowicz, & Dobrzański 2021). To protect the welfare of people in the impacted areas, more research and mitigation tactics may be required (Embiale et al., 2022; Abulude et al., 2022; Shiue et al., 2019).

This study offers useful information about the concentrations of formaldehyde, TVOCs, PM2.5, and PM10 in indoor and outdoor settings throughout Kalasin Province. The results show that some businesses, such stores and motorcycle repair shops, may provide a higher risk of formaldehyde exposure, necessitating the use of effective mitigation measures. Despite the fact that the levels of PM2.5 and PM10 were typically within acceptable ranges, the slightly increased levels seen at the road station underline the necessity of ongoing monitoring and the implementation of air quality improvement initiatives.

Conclusions

The results of this study can be used to draw conclusions about the air quality in Kalasin Province in terms of formaldehyde, TVOCs, PM2.5, and PM10. The stations selected comprised major thoroughfares, residential neighborhoods, shopping malls, motorcycle repair shops, gas stations, industrial zones, and rural locations. Formaldehyde levels varied across the stations. The readings showed that the levels ranged from 0.0207 to 0.1893 mg/m3. Specifically, the first station had a reading of 0.0207 mg/m3, whereas the second station had a slightly higher reading of 0.0239 mg/m3. The third and fourth stations had the highest readings of 0.1892 and 0.1893 mg/m3, respectively. The fifth and sixth stations had similar readings of 0.0273 and 0.0262 mg/m3, respectively, whereas the seventh station had a slightly higher reading of 0.0409 mg/m3. Formaldehyde levels in shopping malls and motorcycle repair businesses were found to be higher than the Thai Air Standard, raising questions about the quality of the air in these places in Table 1.

Table 1. Formaldehyde (HCHO), total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), particulate matter (PM2.5, and PM10) levels in Kalasin Province.

StationsHCHO (mg/m3)TVOC (mg/m3)PM 2.5 (μg/m3)PM10 (μg/m3)Temperature (Celsius)Humidity (Percentage)
Roadways of importance0.021±0.0010.085±0.0024.778±0.4414.778±0.44133.000±0.00059.111±0.782
Neighborhoods where people live0.024±0.0000.099±0.0034.222±0.4414.000±0.00031.000±0.00064.000±0.000
Shopping centers0.189±0.0080.847±0.0575.000±0.0005.000±0.00026.000±0.00053.000±0.000
Motorcycle repair shops0.189±0.2180.194±0.0103.444±0.5273.111±0.33330.778±0.44157.778±0.667
Gas stations0.027±0.0010.119±0.0064.778±0.4415.000±0.00032.000±0.00058.000±0.000
Industrial zones0.026±0.0020.109±0.0075.778±0.4416.000±0.00032.000±0.00054.000±0.000
Rural areas0.041±0.0010.171±0.0026.667±0.5008.000±0.00036.000±0.00062.000±0.000

TVOC levels at various stations ranged from 0.0848 to 0.990 mg/m3. The values at the different locations were as follows: 0.8466, 0.1944, 0.1188, 0.108, and 0.1708 mg/m3. Shopping centers were the only station among them whose TVOC concentration exceeded the permitted level. Investigation on the particulate matter levels was conducted at the different sites and found that the PM2.5 levels were as follows: 4.7778, 4.2222, 5.0000, 3.4444, 4.7778, 5.7778, and 6.6667 μg/m3. These measurements showed that every station complied with the PM2.5 air quality standard. All stations have met the PM10 air quality criteria with concentrations of 4.7778, 4.0000, 5.0000, 3.1111, 5.0000, 6.0000, and 8.0000 μg/m3, respectively. Despite somewhat higher levels of PM2.5 and PM10 in the rural area station, all observed concentrations were still within safe ranges. However, it is essential to spread the word about the possible health hazards (Olalekan et al., 2018) connected to air pollution. Health problems might arise both immediately and later on as a result of air pollution exposure (Blessy et al., 2023). The presence of formaldehyde, TVOCs, PM2.5, and PM10 at various areas in Kalasin Province is highlighted by this study’s findings. Shopping malls and motorcycle repair businesses both have high levels of formaldehyde, highlighting the necessity of taking action to enhance the air quality in these places. Only in shopping areas were TVOC concentrations above the permitted level, while all stations satisfied the PM2.5 and PM10 air quality standards. To ensure the wellbeing of people living in these places, it is crucial to raise knowledge about the harmful impacts of air pollution on human health (Asrani and Shah, 2020).

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Suwanaruang T. Assessment of indoor and outdoor formaldehyde, total volatile organic compounds (TVOC), and particulate matter (PM2.5, and PM10) levels in Kalasin, Thailand [version 1; peer review: awaiting peer review]. F1000Research 2023, 12:1533 (https://doi.org/10.12688/f1000research.140015.1)
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