Analysis of Volatile Compounds

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are substances composed of at least one carbon atom and one hydrogen atom. They exist as gases in the atmosphere. Many of these compounds participate in photochemical reactions responsible for the formation of tropospheric ozone. Other volatile compounds such as benzene and formaldehyde are also considered toxic and pose a health risk. Measurements are made to determine volatile organic compound concentrations in the air of certain urban, suburban and rural environments.

In general, volatile organic compounds are a large group of chemicals commonly found in indoor and outdoor air. These compounds affect air quality. Although some volatile organic compounds give off a distinctive odor at high concentrations, they may be present even in the absence of odour. Exposure to volatile organic compounds in indoor air causes health effects depending on the type, concentration and exposure time of the compound.

Examples of the most common volatile organic compounds are: formaldehyde, benzene, xylenes, acetaldehyde, toluene, ethylbenzene, and naphthalene.

Short-term exposure to high concentrations of certain volatile organic compounds can cause: fatigue, dizziness, nausea, headache, breathing difficulties, and irritation of the eyes, nose and throat.

For most volatile organic compounds, levels found in homes generally do not pose a significant health hazard. The issue of prolonged exposure to low concentrations of volatile organic compounds is still under investigation. An association has been found between exposure to high concentrations of certain volatile organic compounds, such as benzene and formaldehyde, and increased cancer rates among industrial workers.

Everyone is aware of the existence of air pollution now. Volatile organic compounds themselves are direct air pollutants, but they also have side effects. Sunlight and heat react and pollute the air with sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, gases released by many industrial processes and vehicles, and ozone-producing volatile organic compounds. In this regard, potentially dangerous volatile organic compounds such as benzene, toluene, ethylene, xylene and formaldehyde should be carefully monitored.

Our organization also provides analysis services of volatile compounds with its trained and expert staff and advanced technological equipment, among the numerous test, measurement, analysis and evaluation studies it provides for businesses in various sectors.