GS4 Student Scholars Symposium

Burning candles can emit varying concentrations of particulate matter depending on their material composition, which can lead to negative respiratory and neurological health outcomes. In this context, the current study aims to measure particles of 0.3-10µm aerodynamic sizes.

Methods:
Candles were burned for one hour in an enclosed and unventilated room (12.24 m²). Surrounding airborne concentrations of selected particles were measured using a CEM DT-9881 particle monitor at distances of 0, 1, and 2 meters. Measurements were repeated twice for 1-minute durations at 15, 35, and 55 minutes. The concentration values were adjusted with background levels.

Results:
The means ±SD of microparticle concentrations (numbers/2.83L) across all distances were: (a) 15-minute: natural 14,220±1,391; artificial: 56,368±1,960; (b) 35-minute: natural: 12,399±1,311; artificial: 89,599±8,320; (c) 55-minute: natural: 11,427±2,661; artificial: 70,666±1,622.

Conclusions:
Preliminary results indicate that synthetic candles produce significantly more particles of 0.3-10µm sizes, approximately 567% more, than natural candles.