Probing indoor air pollutants for Residents living near Industries

Faculty Sponsor

Dr. Julie Peller

College

College of Arts & Sciences (CAS)

Department/Program

Environmental Chemistry

Presentation Type

Poster Presentation

Symposium Date

Summer 7-30-2026

Abstract

Humans are exposed to indoor contaminants, from both indoor materials and outdoor pollutants. Types of air pollutants that can accumulate indoors include microplastics, metals, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5 mm which originate from the degradation of plastic materials and the release of fibers from materials such as clothing and household products. VOCs are emitted from natural and man-made processes. Industrial facilities, consumer products, and building materials release VOCs that can result in continuous human exposure. This is investigating the composition of indoor dust and evaluating personal exposure to VOCs from indoor areas and daily activities. Dust samples were collected from public spaces throughout Northern Lake County. Samples were examined using stereomicroscopy and processed to determine the proportion of plastic-based material. The methodology involved density separation, filtration, and oxidation of natural organic matter. Samples were analyzes using Raman spectroscopy to identify potential plastic materials. Personal exposures to VOCs were assessed using passive samplers in the form of silicone wristbands, which participants wore continuously during daily activities. VOCs absorbed by the wristbands were extracted using phase microextraction (SPME) and then analyzes using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GCMS). Mass spectra were compared to reference libraries to aid in the identification of the VOCs. Preliminary observations indicated that dust collected from public spaces contains diverse particulate materials, including plastic-based particles, suggesting that indoor environments may represent an important source of microplastic exposure. Continues work may help improve understanding of environmental exposures including metals and PFAS which could potentially have an impact on community health.

Biographical Information about Author(s)

Sasha Trajkovski

Sasha Trajkovski is an incoming 2nd year Biology and Chemistry student at Valparaiso University. She has started doing research with Dr. Julie Peller this summer. Trajkovski is on the pre-med track and will be attending Medical School after graduating from Valparaiso University.

Haley Tomlinson

Haley Tomlinson is an incoming 2nd year Chemistry student at Valparaiso University. She has started doing research with Dr. Julie Peller this summer. Tomlinson plans to get her Masters and PhD in Food Science after graduating from Valparaiso University. 

Elizabeth Olayo

Elizabeth Olayo is an incoming junior pursuing a Chemistry major at Berea College. She has started doing research at Valpo with Dr. Julie Peller this summer. Olayo is on the Pre-med track and is planning on attending Medical School after graduating from Berea College.

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