Aromatic Volatile Organic Compounds in Croatian Domestic Environments: Initial Findings

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the concentrations of BTEX (benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, ortho-xylene (o-), and meta and para-xylene (m-,p-)) in Croatian households between December 2023 and January 2025. The results showed that BTEX concentrations were higher indoors than outdoors, suggesting a considerable contribution from indoor sources. Significant statistical differences were found between indoor and outdoor levels of ethylbenzene, m-,p-xylene, and o-xylene, especially during cold periods when indoor activities increase and ventilation decreases. Spearman’s correlation analysis showed weak correlations between benzene and other BTEX compounds, implying multiple distinct sources such as cooking, smoking, and outdoor air infiltration.

Keywords

• BTEX
• GC
• indoor
• outdoor