Toasters and hair dryers emit trillions of harmful particles: study.

According to ТСН: A study conducted at Pusan National University (PNU) in South Korea showed that common household appliances can significantly pollute indoor air by emitting trillions of ultrafine particles during operation.

Scientists created a laboratory chamber to measure the level of ultrafine particles (UFP) released into the air while popular household devices are in use. These particles, with a diameter of no more than 100 nanometers, can deeply penetrate the human respiratory system.

Devices studied

During the experiment, researchers tested toasters, air fryers, and hair dryers. It turned out that almost all devices generate significant amounts of UFP. The highest pollution was recorded from a pull-out toaster, which without bread emitted approximately 1.73 trillion particles per minute.

Although the study did not investigate the direct impact of such emissions on health, computer modeling showed that ultrafine particles easily bypass the nasal cavity and reach deep areas of the lungs. This may be especially dangerous for children due to their smaller airways.

Design features of appliances

The researchers also found that the design of the devices significantly affects the amount of emissions. For example, brushless hair dryers produced 10 to 100 times fewer ultrafine particles compared to models with conventional motors.

A separate analysis showed that the particles contain traces of heavy metals, including copper, iron, aluminum, silver, and titanium. These elements are likely released into the air from engines and heating elements. Environmental engineer Changhyuk Kim from PNU warns that such impurities can increase inflammatory processes and cytotoxic effects in the body.

Study conclusions

The study authors emphasize that although the work does not establish a direct link between emissions and diseases, preliminary data already associate ultrafine particles with an increased risk of developing asthma, cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, diabetes, and even cancer. As people spend more time indoors, air quality issues are becoming particularly relevant.

Scientists urge manufacturers to improve the design of household appliances to reduce harmful emissions, while regulatory authorities should revise air quality standards, taking users' ages into account. As Kim notes, understanding the sources of pollution paves the way for prevention and creating a healthier home environment.

It is worth noting that scientists have also developed an alternative to petroleum-based plastic that safely dissolves in the ocean.