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Hidden Lung Danger: Household Appliances Emit Toxic Particles
9 Dec
Summary
- Small appliances with heating coils and brushed motors emit toxic ultrafine particles.
- These particles can settle deep in children's lungs, posing significant health risks.
- Appliances with brushed motors release 10 to 100 times more particles than brushless types.
New research from South Korea reveals that everyday household appliances, including hairdryers, toasters, and air fryers, are significant sources of hazardous ultrafine particles (UFPs). These particles, often containing heavy metals like copper and iron, can penetrate deep into the lungs, with potential health implications, especially for young children.
The study, led by Professor Changhyuk Kim of Pusan National University, found that appliances equipped with brushed DC motors or electric heating coils emit substantially higher particle concentrations—up to 10 to 100 times more—compared to those with brushless motors. These particles have been simulated to accumulate in the deepest parts of the respiratory system, raising concerns about inflammation and cell damage.
Given children's smaller airways and higher deposition volume per body weight, they may receive proportionally larger doses of these harmful particles. This research underscores the importance of assessing indoor pollution sources and calls for industries to prioritize human health in product design, contributing to healthier indoor environments and mitigating chronic exposure risks.
