Don't Become Numb to the Threat of PM2.5…

By RISC | 1 week ago

Are you starting to become indifferent to air pollution alerts? They come so often that we get used to them. But PM2.5 remains a real danger in every breath we take.Thailand has been struggling with PM2.5 for years, especially during the dry season when air pollution often exceeds safe limits. PM2.5 at the start of this year was below the five-year average yet some provinces still experienced several days at hazardous levels. Public health remains at risk and pollution shouldn’t be ignored. MEI Compared to PM2.5 Levels in Different RegionsThe Multivariate ENSO Index Version 2 (MEI V.2) is a multivariate index for the ENSO phenomenon. It integrates various oceanic and atmospheric variables to assess the ENSO index, including Sea Level Pressure (SLP), Sea Surface Temperature (SST), Surface Zonal Winds (U), Surface Meridional Winds (V), and Outgoing Longwave Radiation (OLR). MEI is used to evaluate El Niño (MEI value above 0) and La Niña (MEI value below 0). The health impacts of PM2.5 accumulate over time. They can lead to illnesses such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and cancer. In Bangkok, as well as in provinces like Chiang Mai, Chiang Rai, and Phayao, where PM2.5 levels get extremely high, people can experience acute symptoms related to respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, skin conditions, and eye infections.PM2.5 levels vary each year with 2 main factors: meteorological conditions and pollution from various sources.From a meteorological perspective, wind plays a crucial role—both its direction and speed. Strong winds help disperse pollutants. The height of the atmospheric mixing layer (where pollutants can rise and spread) directly affects pollution levels. If this layer is low, pollutants accumulate near the ground, causing PM2.5 concentrations to rise.Another factor is rainfall and humidity, which can help remove airborne particles. High humidity and heavy rain effectively reduce PM2.5 levels and lower the chances of open burning, a major source of air pollution in many regions of the country. On a larger scale, the PM2.5 issue is also linked to global climate phenomena such as El Niño and La Niña, which influence rainfall patterns in Thailand. La Niña, which brings more rain, reduces open burning. El Niño brings drought and an increase in fires. These mechanisms show how air pollution is linked to climate, geography, and human activities.PM2.5 stems from different causes across Thailand.In Bangkok and the Eastern Region, primary pollution sources include traffic, factories, and power plants. PM2.5 levels peak during the winter due to stagnant air trapping pollutants. Pollution from open burning in surrounding areas further worsens the situation in the summer.In the North and Northeast, PM2.5 primarily comes from open burning in agricultural and forested areas. In the North, pollution levels can exceed the safety standard by 10 times during the dry season, aligning with an increase in hotspot detections from forest and farmland fires. Transboundary haze from neighboring countries further exacerbates the problem.In the South, air pollution levels are generally lower due to prolonged rainy seasons and high humidity. But the region isn’t always safe. Towards year-end, the South is affected by transboundary haze, particularly from fires in equatorial regions, where smoke can travel thousands of kilometers over the ocean.The most effective way to combat PM2.5 pollution is to address its root causes. But this requires long-term solutions and collaboration between the government, private sector, and the public. What we can all do right now is protect ourselves—the first line of defense against air pollution.A simple principle to remember is: "Minimize exposure to PM2.5 as much as possible." Stay informed about air quality levels before going outside, wear an N95 mask in high-risk areas, avoid outdoor activities when pollution levels are high, use air purifiers, or stay in PM2.5-free environments."FAHSAI" air purification tower is an example of an initiative for cleaner spaces. It may provide an option for those looking to reduce exposure to pollution. Self-protection doesn’t address the issue’s root causes but provides an immediate solution to reduce health risks for ourselves and our loved ones.PM2.5 is an invisible but ever-present threat, lingering in our every breath. If we ignore it or become indifferent, it may become a crisis we can’t fix.Story by Assoc. Dr. Patipat Vongruang, Assistant Dean, Faculty of Public Health, University of Phayao, and Napol Kieatkongmanee, Senior Sustainable Designer and TREES-A, Building Technology, Intelligent Systems, Innovative Solutions Specialist, RISC

PM2.5 Is Even Worse Than You Thought… It Also Harms Your Brain!

By RISC | 1 month ago

PM2.5 Is Even Worse Than You Thought… It Also Harms Your Brain!Thailand faces the challenge of PM2.5 air pollution at the start of every year. PM2.5 is a major cause of respiratory issues, from allergies and pneumonia to lung cancer. Protecting yourself can be tough. You need to wear a specialized mask outdoors and use air purifiers inside.But an even more alarming issue is emerging. Recent research suggests that PM2.5 harms not only physical but also mental health.A study by Susanna Roberts, published in 2019, on NO2 and PM2.5 air pollution in London studied how PM2.5 affect children under 12. Kids exposed to PM2.5 were at a significantly higher risk of developing depression by 18. The study hypothesized that the dust triggers neuroinflammation, affecting emotional regulation and increasing stress.Another study, by Liuhua Shi in 2023, looked at dementia and long-term exposure to fine particles in the United States. The research found that prolonged exposure to PM2.5 increases the risk of dementia, particularly when the particles originate from agricultural activities or wildfires.Studies suggest PM2.5 has severe health impacts on both physical and mental well-being. The risks extend beyond the general population to vulnerable groups such as children and the elderly. We encourage you to protect yourself from air pollution.Nattapat Tanjariyaporn, Senior Researcher in Brain Computer Interface, RISC​References:Exploration of NO2 and PM2.5 air pollution and mental health problems using high-resolution data in London-based children from a UK longitudinal cohort study (2019)Incident dementia and long-term exposure to constituents of fine particle air pollution: A national cohort study in the United States (2023)

How does dust affect our health? Who should be cautious?

By RISC | 1 month ago

When dust becomes part of daily life, we have to be aware and protect ourselves to avoid serious diseases.Bangkok and several other provinces have recently faced excessive PM2.5. We’ve grown accustomed to smog replacing clear blue skies and daily news reports on hazardous dust levels. Our health is affected as well as visibility.This January, PM2.5 levels in Bangkok and its surrounding areas surged so high that the city ranked among the most air-polluted in the world. People had to quickly adapt by wearing protective masks, installing air purifiers indoors, or even avoiding outdoor activities altogether. However, many still do not fully understand the extent of harm these fine dust particles can cause to the body or who is most vulnerable to their effects.The particulate matter we often talk about, such as PM2.5 and PM10, consists of tiny airborne particles generated by vehicle emissions, industrial activities, construction, and forest burning. PM2.5, in particular, is 25 times smaller than a human hair, allowing it to penetrate the respiratory system and enter the bloodstream. Once inside the body, these particles do not just stop at the nose or lungs—they can travel to other organs and pose serious health risks.Who is most at risk?Although PM2.5 dust affects everyone who breathes it in, certain groups are particularly vulnerable due to their fragile health conditions or pre-existing illnesses that make them more susceptible to its harmful effects. Let's take a look at who needs to be most cautious and take extra care.- Young Children: Children's respiratory systems and lungs are still developing, making them particularly sensitive to dust exposure. Inhaling large amounts of PM2.5 can hinder lung growth, increase the risk of asthma, allergies, and respiratory infections.Basic precautions: Parents should avoid taking young children outdoors when pollution levels are high and install air purifiers at home to create a safer environment.- Elderly Individuals: As people age, their immune systems weaken, and their lung and heart functions decline. PM2.5 exposure can exacerbate chronic conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), cardiovascular disease, and strokes.Basic precautions: Keep the indoor environment clean, avoid outdoor activities on days with high pollution, and seek medical attention immediately if symptoms like shortness of breath or chest pain arise.- Pregnant Women: Fine dust particles can enter the mother's bloodstream and affect fetal development, leading to low birth weight, premature birth, or delayed development. Exposure to polluted air during pregnancy also increases the risk of complications.Basic precautions: Pregnant women should avoid high-pollution areas, wear N95 or KF94 masks when going outside, and use appropriate air purifiers at home.- Individuals with Chronic Illnesses: People with pre-existing conditions such as heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, or allergies are more susceptible to PM2.5’s harmful effects. The dust can trigger inflammation in the body, worsening organ function and causing symptom flare-ups.Basic precautions: Those with chronic illnesses should consult their doctors on how to manage their condition during high-pollution periods and always carry necessary medications.- Outdoor Workers: Construction workers, taxi drivers, motorcycle couriers, and street vendors are regularly exposed to high levels of dust. Daily inhalation of PM2.5 can significantly increase the risk of developing long-term respiratory diseases.Basic precautions: If working outdoors during high pollution levels, wearing an N95 mask properly and taking breaks in dust-free areas whenever possible is recommended.Other Groups That Should Be Cautious:- Outdoor Exercisers: Rapid breathing during exercise increases dust inhalation, exposing the body to higher amounts of pollutants.- Smokers: The combination of smoking and air pollution further heightens the risk of lung and heart diseases.Regardless of whether you belong to a high-risk group, protecting yourself from air pollution is essential for everyone. Good health starts with awareness and daily self-care, especially in times of severe pollution like this.Story by Phetcharin Phongphetkul, Sustainable Designer, LEED®AP BD+C, WELLTM AP, Fitwel Ambassador, ActiveScore AP, TREES-A NC, RISC​

Fahsai Mini

By RISC | 1 month ago

At the beginning of the year, you may have woken up to see a blanket of white mist covering the surroundings. Checking an air quality application or measurement device, you’d have found the haze was hazardous air pollution, with PM2.5 levels soaring to alarming heights. Air pollution has become an increasingly severe issue this year, appearing to last longer and posing greater risks to public health. Do we have to live with this pollution forever? RISC remains committed to developing innovations for better living. Since 2020, RISC has been continuously improving the "Fahsai" air purification towers to combat PM2.5 pollution in Thailand. The project began with Fahsai 1, followed by Fahsai 2 and Fresh One, with installations in key locations such as True Digital Park, where PM2.5 levels were reduced by 50%, and the University of Phayao, which saw a 40% reduction. These purification towers create "safe zones" with cleaner outdoor air. RISC continues to enhance its air purification technology, leading to the development of the latest model, the hybrid automatic air purification tower "Fahsai Mini." This version is designed for easy mobility and installation while improving efficiency. It can purify up to 60,000 cubic meters of air per hour with an effective purification radius of up to 50 meters—equivalent to the air-purifying capacity of 700 trees (based on laboratory test results). Additionally, it can eliminate bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Proven Effectiveness of Fahsai MiniIn mid-January, PM2.5 levels surged. The Fahsai Mini demonstrated its efficiency in reducing pollution compared to nearby areas without air purification towers. The latest air quality measurements recorded on 31 January 2025, at 08:30 AM showed the following data:📌 PM2.5 levels from AirVisual: 147 µg/m³ (08:00–09:00 average)📌 PM2.5 levels from on-site measurement tools: 152 µg/m³📌 PM2.5 levels near the Fahsai Mini tower: reduced to 63 µg/m³ These results indicate that the Fahsai Mini significantly improves air quality by reducing PM2.5 levels by up to 60%, helping to mitigate health risks for people in the affected areas. Introducing the Fahsai Mini The Fahsai Mini applies the Venturi Scrubber system, commonly used for industrial air pollution control, adapted into a hybrid automatic air purification tower. This innovation aligns with health and environmental sustainability goals while enhancing overall well-being. Fahsai Mini is more compact than its predecessors, making it easier to transport and install. However, it retains comparable air purification efficiency, PM2.5 filtration capacity, and pathogen elimination capabilities. Compact size: 3.2 meters in height, 1.35 meters wide at the base. High airflow capacity: Two intake fans at 30,000 m³/h each (total 60,000 m³/h). Wide coverage area: The air output fan also operates at 60,000 m³/h, capable of covering an area equivalent to a football field per hour. The Fahsai Mini starts by drawing in air from its side panels using high-powered fans. The air enters a cylindrical chamber, where it passes through dual high-speed water spray nozzles that create a cyclonic pattern, effectively capturing airborne pollutants. Uses a multi-layer filtration system with a specialized structure to enhance water surface tension, allowing for more effective dust capture. Filters out particles as small as 0.3 microns, smaller than PM2.5 and PM10. Uses UVGI technology to eliminate bacteria and viruses before releasing clean air. Equipped with hybrid power technology, consuming 600–3,000 watts per hour depending on pollution levels. Uses only 50 liters of water per day, with a partial water recycling system incorporating ozone and filtration technology for water purification. RISC has developed multiple air purification models tailored for different environments. Learn more about previous versions:Fahsai 1: https://web.facebook.com/riscwellbeing/videos/494956578093907/ ​ ​Fahsai 2: https://web.facebook.com/riscwellbeing/posts/2746237258972773 ​Fresh One: https://web.facebook.com/riscwellbeing/posts/2494077847522050​ For inquiries or further details about the Fahsai project, please contact:Mr. Nisit Wichaisakul (D Supreme Co., Ltd.)Tel: 061-789-2687Email: nisit_wi@dtgo.com Story by Napol Kieatkongmanee, Senior Sustainable Designer and TREES-A, Building Technology, Intelligent Systems, Innovative Solutions Specialist, RISC

Why Does Toxic Dust Surge Even in Good Weather?

By RISC | 2 months ago

Ever wondered why toxic dust levels can be high even in cool weather?Thailand—especially Bangkok and its metropolitan areas—has been grappling recently with persistently high levels of PM2.5 fine particulate matter. This severe air pollution crisis is significantly impacting public health and quality of life. While air quality has improved at times, PM2.5 levels often spike again unexpectedly.Where does this dust come from?- Open Burning: One of Thailand’s primary sources of PM2.5 pollution is open burning, including agricultural burning (such as cornfields), waste incineration, and forest fires. According to the Pollution Control Department (PCD), open burning both within Thailand—particularly in the northern and northeastern regions during the dry season—and in neighboring countries contributes significantly to PM2.5 levels. Seasonal winds carry these pollutants southward into Bangkok and surrounding provinces. Additionally, burning activities in nearby provinces such as Samut Prakan, Nakhon Pathom, and Pathum Thani, where waste and agricultural residues are frequently burned, further exacerbate the issue.- Traffic Emissions: In Bangkok, traffic emissions contribute to 51% of total PM2.5 pollution, with diesel-powered vehicles being the primary culprits. Heavy traffic congestion, especially during rush hours, traps pollutants in the lower atmosphere, particularly in areas with poor ventilation, such as city centers.- Industrial Activities: Bangkok’s neighboring industrial zones, including Bang Phli, Bang Pu, and Lat Krabang, house numerous factories that emit pollutants into the air. Research from the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) indicates that industrial emissions account for 25-30% of PM2.5 pollution in Bangkok.- Meteorological Conditions: Weather patterns play a crucial role in worsening air pollution, particularly during the cool season. A phenomenon called the “Inversion Layer” occurs when colder air near the ground is trapped beneath warmer air above, preventing pollutants from dispersing into the upper atmosphere. This effect essentially creates a "pollution dome," locking PM2.5 within the city and leading to dangerously high pollution levels.How can we protect ourselves?- Monitor air quality in real time using apps like AirVisual or Air4Thai to plan daily activities based on pollution levels.- Wear effective masks such as N95, KN95, or high-quality fabric masks to protect against PM2.5. Be cautious, as some masks are not designed to filter fine particles effectively.- Limit outdoor activities during high pollution periods. If PM2.5 levels exceed safe limits, avoid outdoor exercise and opt for indoor workouts instead. Using an air purifier indoors can also help maintain healthier air quality.Story by Phetcharin Phongphetkul, Sustainable Designer, LEED®AP BD+C, WELLTM AP, Fitwel Ambassador, ActiveScore AP, TREES-A NC, RISC​Reference byPollution Control Department. (2023). รายงานสถานการณ์มลพิษของประเทศไทย ปี 2566 [Thailand State of Pollution Report 2023]. Bangkok: Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment. Retrieved from https://www.pcd.go.th/publication/32171/​Asian Institute of Technology. (2024, January 26). Collaborative efforts for cleaner air in Bangkok and beyond. AIT. Retrieved from https://ait.ac.th/2024/01/collaborative-efforts-for-cleaner-air-in-bangkok-and-beyond/​World Health Organization. (2021). Global air quality guidelines: Particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10), ozone, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide, and carbon monoxide. Geneva: World Health Organization. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9789240034228

Air Quality in the Rainy Season under WELL V2​

By RISC | 6 months ago

During the rainy season, one of the challenges we face is the increased humidity, which can lead to health issues if not properly managed.​​WELL Building Standard Version 2 (WELL V2) is a global standard for the health and well-being of building occupants. The standard has comprehensive guidelines for effectively managing humidity.​​High humidity in buildings can affect their users in several ways:​o Mold Growth: Excessive humidity is a key factor that promotes mold growth, which can lead to respiratory problems and allergies.​o Deterioration of Indoor Air Quality: The accumulation of dust and allergens worsens indoor air quality.​o Discomfort: High humidity levels can make people feel uncomfortable, sticky, and uneasy.​o Material Degradation: Excessive humidity can accumulate in building materials, damaging furniture, construction materials, and electronic equipment.​​To ensure that everyone using the building breathes clean and safe air, the WELL V2 provides specific guidelines for humidity management, focusing on:​ Thermal Comfort Concept - T07 Humidity Control: WELL V2 recommends that mechanical ventilation systems should maintain the relative humidity (RH) in buildings between 30% and 60%. The systems used may vary based on the size of the building:​o Residential Homes: Air conditioners with a humidity control mode (Dry) or an Energy Recovery Ventilator (ERV) system should be installed. ERV systems help exchange heat and moisture between indoor and outdoor air, conserving energy while maintaining humidity balance. Additionally, dehumidifiers can be used in combination with ventilation systems.​o Large or Public Buildings: A Dedicated Outdoor Air System (DOAS) can be employed to adjust outdoor air quality before bringing it into the building, including humidity control.​Moreover, WELL V2 recommends regular air quality monitoring, especially during the rainy season when humidity levels rise. Air quality data should be displayed on tablets or applications, with readings updated at least every 15 minutes.​ Moisture Management - W07 Water Concept focuses on reducing leaks and moisture accumulation:​o Building Envelope: To prevent moisture accumulation on the building’s exterior, areas should be designed with good drainage systems, regular inspections of rainwater drainage, and materials such as waterproof sheets, metals, or closed-cell foam that do not absorb water should be used.​o Interior Spaces: For areas with high moisture exposure, such as kitchens and bathrooms, moisture-resistant materials should be selected. It is also important to check plumbing systems to ensure there are no leaks, which could lead to moisture buildup. This includes inspecting toilets, washing machines, and dishwashers. Wastewater treatment systems and pipes should also have backflow prevention systems installed.​o For large and public buildings, a moisture control plan should be in place. This includes scheduling regular inspections for leaks, water damage, mold growth on walls, floors, and HVAC equipment. There should also be regular assessments of pipe leakage, and building users should be able to report leaks or mold directly. Additionally, WELL requires that leak inspection and mold reports be submitted to the WELL digital platform.​If we can effectively control and manage humidity during the rainy season, it will bring numerous benefits, such as:​o Improved Health for Building Occupants: Reduces the risk of allergies and respiratory issues.​o Enhanced Productivity: A comfortable environment promotes well-being and increases the productivity of building users.​o Cost Savings: Decreases repair costs from moisture-related damage and reduces energy consumption for air conditioning systems.​o Extended Building Lifespan: Prevents deterioration of the building structure and materials.​o Positive Image: Demonstrates a commitment to the health and well-being of building occupants.​​Implementing WELL V2 for humidity management during the rainy season not only addresses immediate concerns but also serves as a long-term investment in the health and sustainability of both the building and its users.​As consultants specializing in the WELL Building Standard, RISC have expertise in analyzing humidity issues and designing appropriate management systems in line with WELL V2 standards. We are ready to provide guidance and support your organization in enhancing humidity management to create a healthier and more efficient environment.​Let’s work together to create buildings free from moisture issues, ensuring a high quality of life for everyone in the organization, no matter the season.​​Story by Phetcharin Phongphetkul, Sustainable Designer/ LEED®AP BD+C, WELLTM AP, Fitwel Ambassador, ActiveScore AP, TREES-A NC, RISC​​References: ​Thermal Comfort Concept - T07 Humidity Control https://v2.wellcertified.com/en/wellv2/thermal%20comfort/feature/7 ​Moisture Management - W07 Water Concept​ https://v2.wellcertified.com/en/wellv2/water/feature/7 ​T07 Humidity Control Option 2: Humidity modeling https://v2.wellcertified.com/en/wellv2/thermal%20comfort/feature/7 ​A03 Ventilation Design https://v2.wellcertified.com/en/wellv2/air/feature/3A04 Enhanced Ventilation Design https://v2.wellcertified.com/en/wellv2/air/feature/6 ​A12 Air Filtration https://v2.wellcertified.com/en/wellv2/air/feature/12 ​01 Air Quality https://v2.wellcertified.com/en/wellv2/air/feature/1 Air Quality Monitoring and Awareness https://v2.wellcertified.com/en/wellv2/air/feature/8

Should We Enjoy the Weather in the Rainy Season?

By RISC | 8 months ago

We often hear people ask how nice the weather is. But how can we assess meteorological conditions for human comfort?​Thermal comfort is a good place to start.​Thermal comfort is being happy with our surroundings in terms of the body's heat. It depends on 2 key aspects: 1) physical factors in the surroundings and 2) individual factors. Environmental design should provide a comfort zone, not just mentally but also physically, neither too hot nor too cold.​So what physical factors in the environment affect comfort?​4 factors must be considered:1. Air temperature2. Relative humidity​3. Air velocity​4. Mean radiant temperature (MRT).During the rainy season, the air temperature drops. It mightn’t be comfortable, though, because the air is quite humid. (Read more here: https://bit.ly/3VjQysW) Our surroundings could be more comfortable if a wind is blowing. In a garden or on a lawn surrounded by trees and bushes, for example, there’s a low MRT value. We may feel cooler than when surrounded by concrete with a higher MRT, even if the temperature is the same.​In addition to comfort conditions, individual factors affect comfort. Everyone feels cold and heat differently, even in the same location. There are 2 human variables to consider:​1. Our outfit ​2. Our metabolic rate​In a hot and humid country like Thailand, a T-shirt and shorts seem cooler than a long-sleeved shirt and long pants. Clothing acts as an insulator, preventing the body's heat from transferring to the surrounding environment. To assess comfort, the thermal resistance coefficient of clothing, or Clo Value, is used. The body's metabolic rate is determined by the human activities that occur in that area. The body produces heat in diverse ways, which affects a person's feeling of happiness and comfort.​The Universal Thermal Climate Index (UTCI) is used in landscape design and building exteriors to quantify human comfort and thermal stress in a variety of situations. The calculation involves 4 physical parameters of the environment: air temperature, relative humidity, wind speed, and mean residual temperature. Temperature stress has 10 levels, with the median level or no thermal stress at 9-26 °C.​There’s lots more to learn about Thailand's environmental comfort characteristics. (Read more here: https://bit.ly/3VjQysW) There’s also been a lot of research into Thai people's comfort zones. Thais are accustomed to their hot and humid climate so could find different situations pleasant from other nationalities with different climates.​Story by Panpisu Julpanwattana, Senior Sustainable Designer and TREES-A Specialist, RISC​Reference ​Stein, B., & Reynolds, J. S. (1992). Mechanical and electrical equipment for buildings. New York: John Wiley & Sons.​

Putting up Mold- and Allergy-Free Wallpaper

By RISC | 9 months ago

Have you ever put up wallpaper in your home!​There may be risks hidden under the pretty colors. Thailand's hot and humid environment means that moisture accumulates on walls. Rainwater can leak in from the walls or roof. Broken water pipes can make the situation worse.​What’s more, using AC to keep your home at 25-27°C when outdoors is 36°C creates a relative humidity of over 60%RH, particularly in April. Condensation forms inside the wall depending on where the dew point temperature occurs when heat meets cold, just like fog on a window or water droplets on a cold glass. ​Chart 1: Psychrometric Chart displays a dew point temperature of 28°C when the outside air temperature is 36 °C and the relative humidity is 60%RH.​These issues result in moisture accumulating on house walls. We should avoid using additional materials to prevent it and instead go for a material that allows moisture to escape from the wall as fast as possible.​If the wall surface is decorated or other materials limit ventilation, such as wallpaper, issues with brick or concrete walls may be concealed. Particles and dirt behind the wallpaper will create fungus, resulting in air pollution, triggering allergic reactions. ​Figure 1: Condensation on building walls.​Figure 2: Mold on building walls is caused by coating the surface with substance that holds moisture. Figure 3 illustrates how to install wallpaper to reduce mold on building walls.​If you must use wallpaper to decorate your home, RISC has tips on material selection and installation techniques.​• To avoid dampness, examine and seal any leaks or cracks in the wall surface before allowing it to dry completely.​• Use a moisture-resistant foundation with antifungal ingredients.​• Select a non-toxic glue with low volatile organic compounds (low-VOCs) and no food-for-fungi additives. ​• Select breathable wallpaper and non-toxic ink to protect your health.​Wallpaper is not to blame if we can regulate our home's surroundings. To reduce the risk of fungus, avoid putting wallpaper in residential areas, particularly bedrooms, where environmental management is difficult.​Ultimately, think about when you last observed a difference in the walls of your home.​Story by Saritorn Amornjaruchit, Assistant Vice President of RISC

What can we learn from the chemical fire in Rayong?

By RISC | 10 months ago

The fire that broke out in a chemical tank in Rayong this month will likely have far-reaching impacts for property, safety, and the environment. Let’s look at what we learnt from the incident about dealing with dangerous substances.​Pyrolysis gasoline was stored within the tank. High-temperature decomposition of naphtha (naphtha cracking) produces olefins such as ethylene and propylene, which are precursors for making polymers and other plastics. But the process generates a byproduct known as pyrolysis gasoline, or pygas.​So how does Pygas affect our health?​Pygas is a hydrocarbon formed of many different components. Most of them are fragrant and have a high-octane value. As a result, it is frequently used to boost the octane amount of gasoline and serves as a precursor in the petrochemical industry. The gas is a volatile liquid classed as flammable. Its gas vapor is denser than air so accumulates at low levels rather than floating into the atmosphere. If the gas vapor travels into the air, it will harm everyone who comes into contact, causing eye and skin irritation, respiratory system problems, headaches, and nausea. Higher doses may result in unconsciousness.​When the gas ignites, it emits soot containing carbon monoxide. If inhaled, it will affect the respiratory system. Furthermore, excessive exposure produces a lack of oxygen, resulting in dizziness, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, chest discomfort, and shortness of breath. Higher doses will cause unconsciousness and may result in death.​What should we do if a fire breaks out?​​To extinguish pygas fires, use dry chemicals, sand, or foam rather than water, as the gas vapor might ignite and rise over the water's surface, causing the fire to spread further. Avoid regions where gas is distributed, including soot and smoke from combustion. Stay in a well-ventilated place and wear a mask to avoid breathing smoke and PM2.5.​Story by: Supunnapang Raksawong, Materials Researcher in Sustainable Building Material, RISC ​Reference:​Safety Data Sheet: Pyrolysis Gasoline, https://www.vitol.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/25.-Pygas_SDS_US_V3.0.pdf​

How Do Height and Temperature Affect PM2.5?

By RISC | 1 year ago

Many people believe that the higher you go, the cooler you get. But this isn't always the case. RISC is here to help explain.​We experience cooler temperatures when we climb a mountain. The temperature will drop by about 9.8°C for every 1 km of height. To make things easier, we'll refer to this as "Layer 1" or the "Urban Boundary Layer".​But the cold gradually fades. At a specific elevation, the temperature rises with altitude, known as "Layer 2" or "Inversion Layer". This layer is typically 1-2 km high but can be lower at times. After this level, the temperature will fall as the height rises, until we leave the earth's atmosphere. The "Inversion Layer" acts as a cone-shaped cover, preventing various particles from dispersing away from the "Urban Boundary Layer."​Depending on the height of the "Inversion Layer" above ground level, exhaust smoke from cars and particles from various sources will float higher and become diluted with the air. If it is higher, it will improve air ventilation by reducing pollution concentrations in the atmosphere. But if the "Inversion Layer" is low, air pollution will be concentrated and unable to float up or be diluted with air, resulting in inadequate air ventilation.​The height of the "Inversion Layer" depends on the time of day and season. During the day, when the sun's heat reaches the atmosphere, the air expands and rises. During the night, as the air cools to a high density, the "Inversion Layer" presses down and remains lower. During the winter, as air pressure rises, the "Urban Boundary Layer" is thinner than during the wet and hot seasons. As a result, many places experience higher PM2.5 concentration difficulties during the winter, both day and night, compared with other seasons.​Particle problems in many areas, particularly Bangkok, are caused by both human and natural forces during periods of inadequate ventilation. Understanding natural particle formation can help us create preventive technologies and manage specific human activities during periods of low natural ventilation, another critical issue for finding solutions and adapting to bad air quality.​Story by Dr. Parkin Maskulrath, Lecturer, Department of Environmental Science, Faculty of Environment, Kasetsart University and Thanawat Jinjaruk, Senior Researcher, Environment Division and Urban Environmental & Biodiversity Engineer, RISC​