Volatile Organic Compounds

Volatile Organic Compounds: VOCs are a class of chemicals that are volatile (evaporate easily) and are organic compounds (contain carbon atoms).

Organic chemicals are widely used as ingredients in paints, varnishes, wax, cleaning, disinfecting, cosmetic, degreasing, hobby products, moth repellents and air fresheners, dry-cleaned clothing, pesticides, office equipment, building materials, furnishings, and fuels.

The ability of organic chemicals to cause health effects varies greatly from those that are highly toxic, to those with no known health effect.

More information on VOCs and Indoor Air Quality(IAQ) can be found at this EPA site on IAQ.

Test of VOC sensor with exposure to alcohol: