The impact of second-hand smoke on nitrogen oxides concentrations in a small interior

Nitrogen oxides (NOx), especially nitrogen dioxide (NO2), are among the most hazardous forms of air pollution. Tobacco smoke is a main indoor source of NOx, but little information is available about their concentrations in second-hand smoke (SHS), particularly in small indoors. This study presents data of NOx and its main components nitric oxide (NO) and NO2 in SHS emitted by ten different cigarette brands measured in a closed test chamber with a volume of 2.88 m(3), similar to the volume of vehicle cabins. The results show substantial increases in NOx concentrations when smoking only one cigarette. The NO2 mean concentrations ranged between 105 and 293 mu g/m(3), the NO2 peak concentrations between 126 and 357 mu g/m(3). That means the one-hour mean guideline of 200 mu g/m(3) for NO2 of the World Health Organization was exceeded up to 47%, respectively 79%. The measured NO2 values show positive correlations with the values for tar, nicotine, and carbon monoxide stated by the cigarette manufacturers. This study provides NO2 concentrations in SHS at health hazard levels. These data give rise to the necessity of health authorities' measures to inform about and caution against NOx exposure by smoking in indoor rooms.

Automated summary

This study reveals the high concentration of nitrogen oxides in second-hand smoke, which can have harmful effects on health. It is worth noting that the one-hour mean guideline for nitrogen dioxide set by the World Health Organization was exceeded in the experiment. Additionally, the measured NOx values show positive correlations with the concentrations of other chemical components in cigarettes.