Help Tess Neutralize Chemical Reaction Fumes in Her Home

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SUMMARY

Tess experienced severe chemical fumes in her home after using a mould spray containing anionic surfactants and chlorine bleaching agents, followed by a household cleaner called Flash, which contains non-ionic surfactants and Glutaral. The combination of these chemicals likely produced Chloramine gas, leading to respiratory issues and skin irritation. Despite rinsing the affected areas multiple times, the fumes persisted, prompting Tess to vacate her property. Recommendations include ensuring good ventilation and considering the removal of the plaster that may be the source of the odor.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of chemical interactions, specifically between surfactants and bleach.
  • Knowledge of household cleaning products and their active ingredients.
  • Familiarity with the health effects of chemical exposure.
  • Basic principles of ventilation and air quality management.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the chemical properties and reactions of anionic surfactants and chlorine bleaching agents.
  • Learn about the health impacts of Chloramine gas exposure and recommended safety measures.
  • Investigate effective ventilation techniques for removing indoor chemical odors.
  • Explore methods for safely removing and replacing plaster in homes affected by chemical exposure.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for homeowners, health and safety professionals, and anyone dealing with chemical exposure in residential settings.

Tess
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Hi, I wonder if you guys could help me.

During the summer I used a mould spray on upvc windows which contained anionic surfactants with chlorine bleaching agents. I rinsed this off but it left a white film on the glass and so I used a household cleaner called Flash which has < 5 % Non-ionic surfactants, soap,Glutaral, Benzisothiazlinone, Perfume and Limonine.

I also used the mould spray on plaster around the window frame and on the silicone mastic around the window frame.

I rinsed this off with plain water and when it was dry I applied a PVA (acetate) sealer to the plaster around the window and along the mastic.

A couple of weeks ago I went away for a few days and upon my return there was a very strong chemical smell in the rooms where I had used these products. It was so bad that the next day I rinsed all the windows again twice with plain water and then once with a bit of flash diluted in half a bucket of water and then rinsed everything again with plain water.

I was affected by this as I had trouble breathing and had a burning sensation on my skin. I think I may have caused Chloramine gas as a result of the reaction of chemicals and would be grateful if you would be able to tell me what I can used to neutralize this as I have had to move out of my property as the fumes are affecting my health.

I have been in touch with the manufacturers of the mould spray but they say there is no remedy to neutralize this reaction between these chemicals. I would be very grateful if you could help me to resolve this problem.

Thank you.

Tess.
 
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Sorry, but we do not make recommendations when it concerns a person's health as we have no way of knowing what is happening. I recommend you see a doctor for your health problems, and contact your local environmental agency or poison control center for advice.

Hope you get things resolved.
 
I am afraid I don't have much to add.

I am not sure where the smell comes from. Whatever you put on the glass and PVC didn't stay there for long. The way I see it the only thing that can be possibly a source of the smell is the plaster and whatever it was soaked with.

Good ventilation and patience are only things that come to mind (other than mechanically removing the plaster and replacing it with a new one).
 

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