Comprehensive analysis of particulate matter, gaseous pollutants, and microbiological contamination in a clothing store from an international chain in Europe

• Main Author: Furst, Leonardo
• Publication Date: 2025
• Other Authors: Cipoli, Yago, Galindo, Nuria, Yubero, Eduardo, Viegas, Carla, Gomes, Bianca, Cervantes, Renata, Nunes, Teresa, Feliciano, Manuel, Alves, Célia
• Format: Article
• Language: eng
• Source: Repositórios Científicos de Acesso Aberto de Portugal (RCAAP)
• Download full: http://hdl.handle.net/10198/34432
• topic: Clothing store; Indoor air quality; PM10; VOCs; Bioburden

In this study, indoor air quality was assessed in a store belonging to one of Portugal’s largest commercial retail groups. A variety of methodologies was used, including gravimetric analysis for particulate matter (PM), optical monitors for real-time PM measurements, gas sensors and analysers for CO2 and other gaseous pollutants, diffusion tubes for VOCs, and passive deposition for microorganisms. The average PM10 concentration indoors was 16.5 ± 3.87 μg/m3, well below the exposure limits set by various international organisations. A significant portion of indoor PM10 – 69% - was originated from outdoor sources. Outdoor PM10 concentrations were sub- stantially higher, averaging 29.4 ± 14.6 μg/m3. Metal concentrations were also higher outdoors than indoors, and the associated cancer risk and hazard quotient were not exceeded, indicating favourable air quality con- ditions within the store. Among VOCs, α-pinene and tetrachloroethylene were detected in notable concentra- tions. α-Pinene likely originated from cleaning products and fragrances, while tetrachloroethylene was attributed to emissions from a dry-cleaning establishment located in the same building, but did not exceed protection thresholds. Microbial analysis showed low concentrations of both fungi and bacteria. However, fungal species with clinical and toxigenic potential were found. The most common fungal species were Trichoderma sp. and Penicillium sp., depending on the culture media. Overall, the clothing store demonstrated good air quality. However, to further reduce the impact of outdoor pollutants on indoor air quality, enhancements to the venti- lation system are recommended. These improvements can help create a healthier indoor environment by filtering and managing the intake of external contaminants more effectively.