Properties
Carbon (IV) monoxide, commonly known as carbon dioxide, is an odorless and colorless gas. Due to its chemical properties, it has good solubility in water, forming a solution with an acidic taste. It is about 1.5 times heavier than air, so it mainly accumulates near the surface. Carbon monoxide (IV) is of strategic importance in, among other things: construction (in the hardening of lime mortar), the food industry (carbonation of beverages, acceleration of the ripening process of vegetables and fruits) or as a product called “dry ice.”
Origin of pollution
Natural origin
Sources of natural origin of high concentrations of carbon monoxide (IV) in the air can be traced to: natural disasters (including volcanic eruptions, dust storms, extensive wildland fires), gas emissions from marshes and peat bogs, respiration of living organisms, photosynthesis of plants or decomposition of living organisms.
Anthropogenic origin
The anthropogenic origin of high concentrations of carbon monoxide (IV) occurs as a result of systematic and long-term human activities contributing to the emission of environmentally degrading agents. Such activities can include the power industry, metallurgy, chemical industry, road and air transport or so-called “low emissions”.
Low emissions
Air pollution from sources of so-called “low emissions” (a term for chimneys lower than 40m) mainly relates to the process of burning fossil fuels in domestic furnaces to generate the heat needed to heat residential buildings. The main pollutants emitted from the said source include such chemical compounds as CO, CO2, NOx, SO2, in addition, also particulate matter or organic pollutants (including aromatic hydrocarbons classified as carcinogenic compounds). The magnitude of pollutant emissions depends on the source of heat acquisition (fuel, fuel) used, the technical condition of residential buildings (thermal insulation against heat loss) and the condition of furnace operation. The spread of pollutants is also strongly influenced by terrain and meteorological conditions (such as precipitation, wind direction and speed, ambient temperature), which can lead to the accumulation of substances in the immediate vicinity.
Impact on health
Carbon monoxide (IV) concentrations and health – how does it affect our body?
When breathing in ambient air, the carbon dioxide in it dissolves in the blood and reacts with water to form carbonic acid [H2CO2]. Carbonic acid breaks down into hydrogen ions[H+] and bicarbonate ions [HCO3–]. An increase in hydrogen ions leads to a decrease in the pH of the blood and an imbalance of electrolytes, resulting in a deterioration of our mood and a decrease in intellectual performance.
Effects of carbon monoxide (IV) on sleep quality – problems falling asleep and chronic fatigue
According to numerous studies, overnight concentrations of carbon monoxide (IV) in a closed bedroom can increase 6-8 times. The rate of increase depends on the number of people (including pets) in the room. Such high concentrations result in a lack of adequate rest, the consequences of which we can feel the next day in the form of headaches or lack of concentration.
Carbon monoxide (IV) concentrations and job performance/learning efficiency
The main sources of gas pollution in offices and other public buildings (e.g., schools, banks, grocery stores) include the occupants. High concentrations of carbon monoxide (IV) cause discomfort through a feeling of shortness of breath, resulting in a decrease in concentration and productivity. This is why it is very important to take care of constant air exchange in enclosed spaces.
Effects of high concentrations of carbon monoxide (IV) on the development of children
Carbon dioxide, being heavier than air, accumulates near the floor indoors and is particularly dangerous for infants moving right at floor level, as it can lead to unexplained baby fainting.
Standards
Polish standards for indoor carbon dioxide concentrations and effects on the human body.
A CO2 concentration of 5,000ppm (0.5%) is taken as the safety threshold, during 8 hours at work during the day. However, this is a safety threshold, not a threshold of comfort and impact on human health. Complaining about air quality, occurs when CO2 concentrations exceed 600-800ppm, and intensify above 1000ppm. According to various international standards, the recommended CO2 concentration for very good air quality is below 600ppm, for good air quality it is in the order of 600-1000ppm, and acceptable 1000-1400ppm, with CO2 concentrations exceeding 1000ppm often interpreted as a reason to improve ventilation in a building.
Concentrations |
Impact on health |
350-450ppm |
“Fresh” air |
Under 600ppm |
Acceptable air freshness conditions in residential and office spaces. |
1000ppm (0,1%) |
Upper limit of air freshness according to WHO (World Health Organization), EU and PL standards. |