Fatshimetrie
Using scented candles to improve the quality of the atmosphere is an increasingly popular practice these days. However, behind their warm and soothing appearance, there are potential dangers to health and indoor air quality.
Paraffin candles, produced from petroleum refineries, are the most popular in the world. But burning paraffin releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that are harmful to health. These VOCs are similar to those emitted by products such as paints, air fresheners, car exhausts, cleaning products, and fuel-burning appliances.
Scented candles contain air pollutants and trigger several chemical reactions during combustion due to artificial fragrances and dyes. For example, the presence of toluene, a colored vaporized liquid derived from crude oil used to make candles, poses a health hazard. Toluene is a known toxin that can cause headaches, dizziness, and other adverse effects, even at exposure levels deemed safe by regulators. Additionally, paraffin candles emit polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, such as benzene and formaldehyde, which are known human carcinogens that can lead to blood disorders such as leukemia and respiratory irritation.
Several studies have evaluated the emissions of scented candles in homes and controlled environments and have shown that burning candles increases the risk of inhaling hazardous chemicals that contribute to poor air quality. An April 2015 study simulating indoor use found that candles can release pollutants even when not lit. The results showed that the concentration of formaldehyde emitted by a lit strawberry-scented candle was 2,098 parts per billion, well above the thresholds considered acceptable. Similarly, the total emission concentration of a lit kiwi-melon candle was 12,742 parts per billion. It is therefore clear that scented candles represent a potential hazard to health and indoor air quality.
Faced with these risks, many people are now avoiding candles made from petroleum, turning instead to candles made from animal and vegetable fats such as coconut oil, soy wax, beeswax or stearin. These more natural alternatives allow you to enjoy the warm ambiance of candles while avoiding the harmful effects of the chemicals present in paraffin candles.
It is essential to stay informed about the potential dangers of using scented candles and to opt for safer alternatives to preserve health and indoor air quality. Awareness of the environmental and health issues related to our daily habits is crucial to preserve our well-being and that of our planet.