Lyka Monica S. Caringal (April 2009)
Philippine Science High School Western Visayas Campus – Department of Science and Technology (DOST-PSHS WVC), Brgy. Bito-on, Jaro, Iloilo City 5000, Philippines
ABSTRACT
Breathing in ozone can trigger a variety of health complications. During photocopying, ozone is produced during the charging and discharging of the drum, but it is uncertain whether the amount of ozone emitted reaches an unhealthy level.
This study was conducted to confirm ozone emission from photocopiers and measure amount of ozone using the Schoenbein Paper method. Specifically, it aimed a) to measure the amount of ozone (in parts per billion) emitted by photocopiers, b) to compare the amount of ozone detected under the exposure times 1 hour versus 8 hours and c) to compare the amount of ozone detected between the three sites.
The Schoenbein Paper method was used to measure ozone concentrations in three sites. Paper strips were coated in a mixture of potassium iodide, distilled water and cornstarch, dried, then exposed on site for 1-hr and 8-hr periods. Color change and relative humidity were recorded, and used to obtain ozone concentration values.
Results showed that there was a significant difference in the amount of ozone detected under exposure times I hour versus 8 hours. This means that exposure time affects the ozone concentration recorded by the Schoenbein paper over time.