We spend most of our days indoors. As such, we would like to have control over what we breathe. A predictable mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and formaldehyde pervade our breathing space due to societal use of household products, building materials, and fuel mixtures. Mix in other VOCs present due to life choices and the VOC load present in indoor air can result in an uncomfortable breathing environment. We can improve this environment by source identification (i.e., IAQ testing) followed by source reduction or source removal, but in many cases, the only way to pursue further remediation is to massage our internal environment with some form of air purification.
Besides the presence of VOCs and formaldehyde, air can be a complex matrix (Figure 1). According to a 2009 Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) report, indoor air pollution is among the top five environmental health risks[1]. Particulate matter, allergens, tobacco smoke, pet dander, to name a few, along with VOCs and formaldehyde, can all affect occupant health. Therefore, the goal for indoor air quality management is to provide a safe environment for breathing and living.