The Impact of Indoor Total Volatile Organic Compound Exposures on Cognitive Performance in a Controlled Chamber Environment: An Experimental Study

Abstract

Indoor levels of total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs) can influence students’ learning and productivity by affecting cognitive performance. To investigate whether TVOC affects cognitive performance in schools, especially in newly constructed or renovated buildings within the first 3 months, a single-blind experiment was conducted in a climate chamber. Then, 33 university students were exposed to three moderate TVOC concentrations: below 100, 1000, and 2000 μg/m³, all emitted by solvent-based paint. Ventilation (30 m³/h), temperature (22°C), relative humidity (50%), lighting, and noise levels were maintained at constant values for all exposure conditions. Cognitive performance was measured through reaction speed and accuracy using a computer-based test battery that included 10 randomized tasks; all participants completed the test three times. Participants’ perceptions of the environment were investigated through pretest and posttest questionnaires. The results indicate no statistically significant differences in reaction speed or accuracy were observed between exposure to medium–low (1000) and low (100 μg/m³) TVOC levels. Exposure to a medium–high level of TVOC (2000 μg/m³) significantly reduced task accuracy by 4.9% compared to the low level (100 μg/m³). No statistically significant effect on reaction speed was observed. Participants’ perceptions of air quality were rated significantly worse at both the 1000 and 2000 μg/m³ TVOC exposure levels compared to the low level. Overall, no significant differences in cognitive performance were observed between the medium–low and low TVOC exposure levels. Both accuracy in memory tasks and well-being were negatively affected when comparing the medium–high level to the low level of TVOC. These findings highlight the critical need for monitoring and controlling TVOC levels during the early stages of construction and renovation to improve indoor air quality. Future studies could investigate a broader range of VOC sources and incorporate additional strategy-based cognitive tasks.