Impact of airborne VMSs in diversified household and work environments - levels and daily exposure

In this pilot study, the occurrence, levels, and human exposure to three linear (L3-L5) and four cyclic (D3-D6) volatile methylsiloxanes (VMSs) were evaluated in the air of seventeen household- and work-related indoor environments and two outdoor sites. Two passive air sampling campaigns were conducted, followed by low-volume solvent extraction and GC/MS analysis. The inhalation exposure to VMSs was subsequently calculated considering a standard individual on a daily routine for each of the different workplaces. Consistent inter-campaign profiles were found for most environments, with cyclic VMSs prevailing and D5 as the predominant compound (>50% of ∑VMSs), in line with its higher presence in cosmetics and personal care products (PCPs). However, some locations ( e.g. , car, shipyard, restaurant, GC/MS room) presented a more balanced profile, indicative of different VMS sources. The highest ∑VMSs concentrations were reached in the bedroom (71100 ng/m 3 ), mostly influenced by a strong use of PCPs, while the lowest levels were found in the outdoor remote area (3.24 ng/m 3 ). These variations were influenced by the site type, the room volumes, and ventilation patterns. Average inhalation exposure varied between 4810 ng/(kg·day) (car repair shop workers) and 6850 ng/(kg·day) (hair salon workers). In any case, most of the daily exposure (>66%) likely originates during the time spent in the bedroom.