Abstract:
This research examined the effects of fungal growth on a commonly used fiberglass ductboard insulation that was treated with antimony trioxide flame retardant. We demonstrated that growth of Aspergillus versicolor reduced antimony trioxide levels by 25% to 43% at varying rates over the course of one to 29 weeks. Fungal degradation of building materials that contain antimony trioxide has been demonstrated to greatly increase the rate of its release. In the indoor environment, mobilization and accumulation of antimony in building dust could result in occupant exposures and adverse health effects. Poor maintenance of HVAC systems or episodic water damage can lead to severe fungal growth on fiberglass ductboard used in HVAC systems. Mold growth on fiberglass ductboard has been documented in numerous studies. Certain brands of fiberglass ductboard are treated with the flame retardant antimony trioxide (CAS 1309-64-4; Sb2O3). The toxic and carcinogenic properties of antimony trioxide have been well documented and are recognized by the USEPA, CPSC, USGS and, IARC however its extensive use as a flame retardant on consumer products, textiles, and building materials has been allowed because of its presumed immobility and low risk of human exposure. A handful of laboratory studies have previously demonstrated that antimony can be released from substrates containing Sb2O3 via biomethylation, a process demonstrated by many bacteria and fungi. Researchers have consistently raised concerns that hazardous exposures to antimony compounds could result from microbial degradation of flame retardant-treated materials in indoor environments.
Entire Publication can be accessed at http://etd.fcla.edu/SF/SFE0001086/Krause-John-Dissertation.pdf
Written by J. Krause, Indoor Air Solutions, Tallahassee, FL; Y. Hammad, University Of South Florida, Tampa, FL.
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