Volatile Emissions

Overview

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) consist of a broad range of carbon-based chemicals that vaporise at room temperature and when in air, predominantly exist in the vapor phase. VOCs contained in products tend to diffuse to the surface and are emitted into the air over time. When these emissions occur indoors, building occupants are exposed via inhalation. VOCs of potential concern include: formaldehyde, chronic systemic toxins such as toluene, styrene, phenol, and naphthalene, carcinogens, mutagens, and teratogens, sensory irritants and odorants.

Volitile emissions shirley tech

A range of test methods are available for testing volatile organic compounds in floor coverings, mattresses, curtains, foams, automotive interiors etc.

Shirley® performs tests according to the following standards: 

  • Oeko-Tex® Standard 100
  • BS EN ISO 10580:2012
  • BS EN ISO 16000 Series

Volitile emissions

Principle

Samples are tested in an emission chamber under controlled conditions. A measured volume of sample air is collected from the emission test chamber by drawing through one (or more) sorbent tube containing Tenax sorbent. Volatile organic compounds are retained by the sorbent tube and the compounds are subsequently analysed by thermal desorption gas chromatography with mass selective detection (TD-GC/MS).

For further information or to discuss a specific test or ongoing testing programme, please contact Gareth Heywood, who will be happy to discuss your requirements, on +44 (0) 161 869 1610 or gareth.heywood@shirley.co.uk