Mould germination and the growth rate on wallpapers with different physical properties and the surface structures

Abstract

Mould infestation problems in building are a complex phenomenon involving various causes such as environmental conditions, substrates, exposure time, and so on. The physical properties of building materials, e.g. surface structure, can be a key factor for mould germination and growth. The aim of this study is to determine the influence of the hygroscopic properties and surface structures of the wallpapers on the mould growth. An experimental study was conducted to characterize the hygroscopic properties and surface structures of the wallpapers. Four types of wallpapers with low chemical emissions were selected in order to exclude influence on chemicals on mould germination. Cross sections of the selected wallpapers were observed in order to characterize the surface structure of wallpapers using the scanning electron microscope. Three different fungi species were inoculated on the wallpapers, and mould growth on the selected wallpapers were observed for about two weeks. The results showed that the wallpapers with irregular patterns or a flat surface structure could delay mould growth. Wallpapers with higher moisture sorption capability would limit the development of mould growth under the experimental condition. Our study has shown a clear correlation between the mould growth rate and hygroscopic properties of the wallpapers.

Keywords

Building materials Hygroscopic property Mould Surface structure Wallpaper

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