Volatile Organic Compounds

In general, products that are processed as little as possible are better not only for the environment but for overall heath. Many people are sensitive to chemical compounds. Products that contain zero volatile organic compounds are ideal since they don’t emit gases like traditional building materials.

Materials recyled or salvaged from homes slated for demolition are also good choice. Paint is one of the most common toxins in your home. Many paints will off-gas in your living space for years after the painting. Even some of the big-box hardware stores are selling NO-VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) paints. They are more expensive, but will improve the quality of your living space. This is critical for allergy, asthma, and emphysema sufferers. 

VOCs include Formaldehyde, Phenol and Chlorine

Formaldehyde exposure is most common through gas-phase inhalation. However, it can also occur through liquid-phase skin absorption. Formaldehyde forms other carcinogens when it combines with household chemicals such as ammonia. Exposure to formaldehyde vapors can cause eye, nose and throat irritation; coughing;  headaches; dizziness, and other complication. The EPA ranks it as a probable human carcinogen. The main sources of formaldehyde off-gassing are building materials (insulation) particle board (cabinets, shelves, furniture), resins, adhesives, paints, varnishes, cars, cigarettes, burning wood, natural gas and kerosene. It has no odor but can be measured in the air. The source must be removed or coated (for the short term). It is also important to maintain moderate humidity and good ventilation as heat and moisture accelerate emissions.

Phenol is an extremely caustic chemical that burns the skin. Absorption through the lungs or skin can cause central nervous system damage, heart rate irregularities, respiratory disease, kidney and liver damage and death. Phenol is found naturally in decaying dead organic matter like rotting vegetables and in coal.  The largest single use of phenol is as an intermediate in the production of phenolic resins, which are low-cost, versatile, thermostat resins used as a plywood adhesive and in the construction, automotive, and appliance industries. Phenol is also regularly used as a slimicide (a chemical toxic to bacteria and fungi) in disinfectants; and as an anesthetic in medicinal preparation including ointments, ear and nose drops, cold sore lotions, throat lozenges, and antiseptic lotions.

Chlorine-based chemicals are commonily used in households. For example, the 1990 Clean Air Act lists chlorine bleach as a hazardous air pollutant. It is also the most common household cleaning product accidentally swallowed by children. Inhaled chlorine-based chemicals can cause respiratory problems including emphysema and bronchitis. Chlorine exposure itself is usually limited to industrial sites but household chlorine bleach can release chlorine gas if it is mixed with other cleaning agents.