Date: Tue, 16 Nov 2010 11:09:43 -0500
From: Diane Vannais
Subject: smell at Library
Here is some information about the smell at the library. The librarians told me that it has been identified as pentane in very low levels. So low that only very sensitive people can smell it (think what happens after you eat asparagus). The State toxicologist has told the library staff that it is not toxic at the levels found.
It is used in LEED certified buildings as the “expander” in extruded polystyrene (you usually see it as molded foam in packing material). Pentane is much safer for the ozone that previously used materials. It usually dissipates quickly. Perhaps a thorough airing with fans would help.
Except for speaking with the librarians, all my information came from various on line sources.
I do smell it, although my husband does not. But we both love the library.
Diane Vannais