What is a volatile organic compound?
An organic chemical compound that has high vapor pressure and low water solubility is referred to as a volatile organic compound (VOC). Carbon constitutes these compounds, which are hence known as organic compounds. VOCs have a boiling point below 250 degrees Celsius at standard atmospheric temperature.
Most compounds that fall into this category are manmade and are used in the production of paints, refrigerants, and pharmaceuticals. Some examples are industrial solvents like trichloroethylene and fuel oxygenates such as methyl tert-butyl ether. In everyday usage, we come across these compounds in petroleum fuels, hydraulic fluids, dry cleaning agents, and paint thinners. VOC compounds usually have no color, smell, or taste.
The environmental impact of VOCs:
When accidentally released into the atmosphere, these VOCs can cause a lot of damage to the environment. These organic chemical compounds contaminate the soil and groundwater and sometimes contribute to air pollution. VOCs are further divided into methane and non-methane VOCs. Methane is a very potent gas when it comes to global warming. VOCs are capable of accelerating the rate of nitrogen oxides—they react with sunlight creating low-level ozone and photochemical smog.
Since there are many VOC compounds found within the house, they contributed to what is known as sick building syndrome, which relates to poor air quality. The United States Environmental Protection Agency states that often VOCs indoor are two to five times more than the levels that exist outdoors. Some of the most harmful VOCs are benzene polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and butadiene.
The effect of VOCs:
People who are exposed to benzene over long durations have a higher probability of contracting leukemia. PAHs, on the other hand, are known to be a probable cause of cancer. VOCs can cause asthma attacks, throat and eye irritation, headaches, and nausea.
To cut down on the harmful effects of VOC, there are a number of consumer products such as paints that are low-VOC or VOC-free.
