Chemistry For Your Life

Are we breathing recycled air on airplanes?

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#212

Melissa and Jam explore the concept of ozone and its impact on air quality in airplanes. Melissa explains the chemical reaction of ozone, why it's significant in organic chemistry, and how it can lead to discomfort in air travel by interacting with the oils on our skin. They also discuss various tips for flying and the potential benefits of noise-canceling headphones and lounge access for frequent flyers. The episode sheds light on why people often feel unwell on planes, highlighting the Pigpen Effect, where leftover oils from previous passengers can react with ozone to create a micro-cloud of pollutants.

00:00 Introduction to Ozone Lysis

00:09 Ozone Lysis in Organic Chemistry
00:25 Personal Anecdotes and Misconceptions
01:10 Ozone and Airplane Discomfort
01:49 Chemistry of Airplane Air
02:41 Ozone Lysis and Human Interaction
06:44 Catalytic Converters in Airplanes
11:58 The Pigpen Effect
16:50 Historical Context and Modern Concerns
18:38 Recap and Further Discussion
20:23 Understanding the Pigpen Effect
20:58 Chemical Reactions of Aldehydes and Ketones
22:11 Volatility and Airplane Air Quality
22:42 The Gross Reality of Airplane Seats
23:31 Airplane Hygiene and Mask-Wearing
25:08 Flying Tips and Tricks
29:54 Travel Credit Cards and Lounge Access
34:36 Sleeping on Planes and Noise-Canceling Headphones
37:43 Final Thoughts and Community Engagement

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References from this episode:

  1. https://cen.acs.org/safety/consumer-safety/Periodic-Graphics-chemistry-airplane-air/102/i26
  2. https://www.acs.org/catalyzing-change/when-a-good-relationship-turns-toxic-ozone-on-airplanes.html
  3. https://pubs-acs-org.libproxy.library.unt.edu/doi/full/10.1021/es3046795
  4. https://youtu.be/hM9P1_Xuayk?t=107s
  5. https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/data_research/research/med_humanfacs/cer/OzonePassengerCabins.pdf
  6. https://www.faa.gov/sites/faa.gov/files/data_research/research/med_humanfacs/cer/OzonePassengerCabins.pdf
  7. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3683839/

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