Whether it is clay or concrete, the quality of any building material is essential for its intended uses. At the same time, safety must always be taken into account, because building materials can become a source of hazardous chemical emissions.
Types and levels of VOCs in building materials
Many household products contain hazardous volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as acetone, formaldehyde and butanol, which contribute to indoor air pollution. Knowing the VOC concentration and the units of measurement is important to protect people's health. Common hazardous substances include, for example:
- Formaldehyde: Found in pressed-wood products and formaldehyde-based resins (for example plywood and fiberboard), used in furniture, paneling, flooring and more.
- Acetaldehyde: Used to produce polyester resins and basic dyes; found in laminates, cork, foam mattresses, linoleum and other products.
- Phenol: Found in various materials, such as wall coverings and vinyl flooring.
- BTEX substances: BTEX includes benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene and xylene, which are found in many petroleum products.
- Glycol ethers: Used in various solvents, coatings and cleaning products.
- Dichloromethane, often used in adhesives.
Note that not all volatile organic compounds are classified as VOCs; carbon monoxide, for example, is a different type of gas. Using an indoor air quality monitor can be extremely helpful for detecting different VOC concentrations and the emission levels of organic pollutants.
Total VOC concentration in buildings and adverse effects
Research has found that organic emissions vary between buildings and building materials. In new buildings and new building materials, for example, VOC emissions range from 0.5 to 19 mg/m3. In older buildings, by contrast, levels are between 0.2 and 1.7 mg/m3. In addition, dry materials, such as oriented strand board (OSB), solid wood and acoustic ceiling tiles, differ from wet materials, such as wood stains, sealants and floor waxes.
Note that adverse health effects from exposure to volatile organic compounds can occur above 3 mg/m3. Common health problems include asthma, skin irritation, headaches, nausea, confusion and eye irritation. Consequently, the Environmental Protection Agency recommends using less harmful building products and materials during construction and renovation.
VOCs in building materials and alternatives
From insulation and wood panels to varnishes and sealants, many building materials emit toxic compounds. Studies have shown that pollutants from floors, ceilings and walls have a negative impact on indoor air quality in buildings. Although building materials are often classified into different sectors (for example plumbing, roofing, etc.), the common sources of VOC exposure in building materials can be divided into:
- Solid building materials, such as partition walls.
- Liquid building products, such as adhesives. Note that exposure to dichloromethane, one of the most common components of adhesives, is very dangerous.
- Decorating products, such as wallpaper.
- Household products, such as solvents and cleaners.
Interestingly, all materials used for construction and renovation are considered building materials. In fact, wood, metals, bricks, plastic, foam plastic sheets, ceramics and cement are common in today's building industry. Nevertheless, natural and ancient building methods (for example mud, sand and stones) should also be considered in modern manufacturing. Building alternatives include:
- Fabric: Originally used among nomadic groups, companies today have started to incorporate more and more fabric materials.
- Thatch: Thatch and other plants are still used in tropical climates. In addition, natural building practices are making a comeback - construction companies in countries such as the Netherlands have started experimenting with thatched roofs.
- Ice: Mainly used by the Inuit; today, many winter resorts offer ice hotels and a "cool" experience.
Natural building materials are effective, and so are good ventilation systems. In fact, well-equipped HVAC systems are extremely important for office buildings, educational centers and medical facilities.
Although not all organic compounds are classified as VOCs, proper VOC emission testing is needed to improve environmental and health outcomes. Indeed, since exposure to hazardous compounds can lead to many adverse effects, the difference between hydrocarbons and VOCs should also be clarified. Hydrocarbons, in particular, contain hydrogen and carbon atoms.
Buildings are not only beautiful architectural creations but a vital factor in people's well-being. Natural, clean building materials can simply help societies build a better environment.