Experts from Pusan National University (PNU) determined that common household appliances produce potentially harmful ultrafine particles (UFPs), with sizes not exceeding 100 nanometers. These particles can readily enter deep into the lungs of both adults and youngsters. The detailed findings of the study were published in the journal Journal of Hazardous Materials.
In a regulated laboratory setting, specialists assessed emissions from toasters, deep fryers, and hair dryers. The most substantial level of contamination was observed from an automatic bread toaster—around 1.73 trillion particles per minute, even without bread present. It was found that heating elements and brushed DC motors are the main origins of the emissions, whereas dryers with brushless motors release 10 to 100 times fewer such particles.
Furthermore, evidence of heavy metals such as copper, iron, aluminum, silver, and titanium was detected within the particles, which could potentially raise the likelihood of inflammatory responses and cytotoxicity. Although the direct impact on health was not the focus of this work, prior research links UFPs to the development of asthma, cardiovascular ailments, elevated blood pressure, diabetes, and cancerous diseases.
Professor Changhyuk Kim emphasized the necessity of designing domestic appliances while considering their emission levels and formulating guidelines for maintaining indoor air quality, especially where children reside. The researchers suggest implementing design modifications and establishing stricter standards to reduce the concentration of ultrafine particles.
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