Volatile organic compounds (VOC)
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are numerous individual compounds that are present in gaseous or vapor form at room temperature and can accumulate in indoor air. VOCs can be of synthetic or natural origin. Common sources of VOCs indoors include cleaning agents, varnishes, paints, adhesives, furniture, disinfectants, cosmetics, and liquid fuels. However, tobacco smoke, cooking odors as well as human metabolism also contribute to VOC accumulation indoors. As a rule, the VOC concentration in indoor spaces is reduced by regular ventilation.
If indoor odors, irritation, or symptoms are suspected to be related to VOCs, it is recommended to seek professional help. With the help of indoor air and emission measurements, possible contamination can be evaluated, and ideally the corresponding VOC source can be identified. In addition to competent advice, we offer inspections, sampling, analysis in our own laboratory and evaluation of the results according to current standards and guideline values.
Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a highly volatile organic compound with a pungent odor, which is contained in numerous materials used indoors. In particular, particleboard and other wood-based materials in the form of veneer furniture, panels and floorboards, as well as in-situ foams and adhesives, are possible sources of formaldehyde emissions. Furthermore, formaldehyde is also used as a preservative in numerous cosmetics and cleaning products (e.g. nail hardeners, antiperspirants, shampoos, etc.). Formaldehyde is released both in outdoor air and indoors during combustion processes (e.g. tobacco smoking).
Formaldehyde as a gaseous substance causes mainly local irritation of the upper respiratory tract and eyes. In June 2014, formaldehyde was classified in hazard class "Carcinogen 1B and germ cell mutagen 2" according to the 6th CLP Regulation.
If formaldehyde exposure is suspected indoors, we offer expert advice, inspections, sampling, and analysis in our own laboratory, as well as assessment according to current standards.
Wood preservatives (PCP and lindane)
Particularly in the 1960s and 1970s, wood preservatives often contained an active ingredient combination of pentachlorophenol (PCP) and γ-hexachlorocyclohexane (lindane). Wooden components, such as stud frames, doors, window frames, floorboards, etc., were treated in large numbers with these wood preservatives.
In 1986, the Hazardous Substances Ordinance banned the use of wood preservatives containing PCP indoors. However, PCP and lindane can outgas over long periods of time after the last treatment and lead to adverse health effects.
If you suspect exposure to wood preservatives, we can offer you competent advice, sampling, and analysis in our own laboratory, as well as assessment in accordance with current standards and in compliance with current guidelines (e.g. PCP Guideline NRW).
Chloranisoles
In older prefabricated houses or pavilion buildings, a typical musty odor ("cork smell") can often occur, which is due to the decomposition of PCP by moisture-loving microorganisms. The resulting chlorine anisoles are harmless to health but can lead to an odor nuisance that is perceived as very unpleasant.
If required, we offer indoor air measurements with analysis in our own laboratory as well as an evaluation according to current standards.
Other typical pollutant parameters:
- Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCB)
- Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH)
- Chloronaphthalenes
- BTEX and CHC (active and passive sampling)
- Asbestos
- Artificial mineral fibers (KMF)
- KI value
