Student Research Reports
Impact of Incremental Incense Stick Consumption on PM2.5 Loading: Implications for Indoor Air Quality
Organization(s):Thailand Citizen Science
Country:Thailand
Student(s):Montita Nanakhon, Thanissorn Seanpakdee, Paphangkorn Kaewareelap,
Shane Natthaphoom Gardner, Pavarut Jitprakob, Panat Chaowalit, Achitaa Tarachusong, Nawinda Keerenart, Patcharaporn Udomdee, Supichaya Sornjeen, Alina Warawong
Grade Level:Upper Primary (grades 3-5, ages 8-11)
GLOBE Member(s):Miss Ploynalin Arkham, Miss.Thipsakul Makchit
Contributors:Miss Ploynalin Arkham, Miss.Thipsakul Makchit
Scientists: Assoc.Prof.Dr.Krisanadej Jaorensutasinee, Assoc.Prof.Dr.Mullica Jaroensutasinee, Miss Chonthicha Khongthong, Mr. Tiwakorn Yoawa
Report Type(s):Virtual Science Symposium Report
Protocols:Clouds, Air Temperature, Relative Humidity
Presentation Video:
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Presentation Poster:
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Language(s):English
Date Submitted:2026-01-21
This study investigates the Impact of Incremental Incense Stick Consumption on PM2.5 Loading, focusing on the relationship between source intensity and indoor air quality degradation. The research objectives are: 1) to quantify and compare the PM2.5 mass loading generated from burning 2, 5, and 9 incense sticks; 2) to analyze the incremental accumulation patterns within a simulated environment over a fixed temporal scale; and 3) to evaluate the implications for public health regarding hazardous exposure. The experiment utilized dual-sensor monitoring in a controlled environment. The results demonstrate a significant non-linear correlation between incense quantity and particulate density: as incense consumption increased, PM2.5concentrations rose exponentially, frequently exceeding international safety thresholds within minutes. The findings reveal that incremental increases in source material lead to rapid pollutant saturation in enclosed spaces, with PM2.5 remaining at hazardous levels long after combustion. These results underscore the severe respiratory risks associated with ritualistic smoke and emphasize the need for source reduction and enhanced ventilation to improve indoor air quality.