Evaluation of PM 2.5 Resuspension Characteristics by Mattress Material: Airweb, Memory Foam, and Latex

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Authors: Ji Soo Kim, Hanbee Baek, Ji Young Park, Kiyoung Lee
Cited by: 0

Abstract

Background: Mattresses are products designed for long-term use positioned in immediate proximity to the human breathing zone.However, their contribution to PM 2.5 resuspension during repeated use has not been well characterized.Objectives: This study aimed to quantitatively evaluate PM 2.5 resuspension characteristics from mattresses and assess differences by mattress material, dust loading, and aging duration.Methods: Laboratory experiments were conducted using mattress specimens made of airweb, memory foam, and latex.Standard test dust was applied at three loading levels (1, 2, and 4 g).Repeated mechanical loading was applied to simulate use, followed by controlled impact to induce resuspension.PM 2.5 concentrations were measured after impact.Aging durations of 0, 1, and 5 days were examined under a dust loading of 1 g.Results: Across all experimental conditions, airweb mattresses consistently showed lower PM 2.5 resuspension concentrations compared to memory foam and latex mattresses.For memory foam, peak PM 2.5 resuspension generally increased with greater dust loading, while resuspension in airweb remained low.In addition, latex mattresses exhibited a pronounced increase in PM 2.5 resuspension with longer aging duration, whereas changes in airweb mattresses remained minimal.Conclusions: PM 2.5 resuspension from mattresses varies markedly by material, accumulated dust, and use duration.These findings indicate that mattress material and usage-related factors may influence PM 2.5 exposure levels in bedroom environments.The results provide a basis for mattress selection and indoor air quality management to reduce inhalation exposure.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Indoor Air Quality and Microbial Exposure Air Quality and Health Impacts Aerosol Filtration and Electrostatic Precipitation

Publication details

Journal / source
Korean Journal of Environmental Health Sciences
Volume
52
Issue
1
Pages
89–95
Publication date
27 February 2026
Language
EN