Resuspension of inhalable particles from clothing: A manikin-based chamber study
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: Clothing plays a significant role in facilitating inhalation exposure to particulate matter (PM). Nevertheless, there is a lack of studies investigating PM resuspension from clothing. This study aims to quantify size-resolved PM resuspension rate (RR) from clothing while exploring the effects of factors influencing this process. In a controlled chamber, we deposited Arizona Test Dust on a seated and clothed thermal manikin. The seated manikin was then placed in a resuspension chamber to perform arm movements using a consistent test mechanism. We evaluated the size-resolved resuspension rates in the diameter range 0.3–10 μm as a function of long-sleeve clothing type (cotton shirts vs. polyacrylic sweaters), relative humidity (RH) (35 vs. 70 %), dust loading (204 vs. 321 mg/m 2 ), and movement intensity (0.25, 0.5, and 0.75 Hz). The short-term PM 10 concentration in the breathing zone was 1.25 times higher than in the bulk air during resuspension. The size-dependent RR varied between 0.01 h −1 and 0.06 h −1 . Higher RR was associated with higher movement intensity and dust loading on clothing, while a small dependence was found on clothing type and RH. The results offer a valuable dataset for enhancing current inhalation exposure models related to indoor aerosols and for developing targeted interventions to reduce exposure to particles associated with clothing. • We quantified particle resuspension rates (RR) from clothing using a moving thermal manikin. • RR was positively correlated with the moving intensity and dust loading. • We found no obvious influence of clothing type and RH on RR.
Source: Building and Environment
Authors: Han-Yun Jhang, Shen Yang, Dusan Licina
Institution: École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Language: English
Subfield: Health, Toxicology and Mutagenesis
Field: Environmental Science
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $4,200
OpenAlex ID: W4403144491
