An overview of methodologies for the determination of volatile organic compounds in indoor air

Abstract

Volatile organic compounds are a broad and important class of pollutants affecting the indoor air quality. They are emitted from commercial products, building materials, furniture, occupant activities and even occupants, etc., and can participate in the indoor chemistry reacting with oxidants or being formed from secondary reactions. Some VOCs are classified as carcinogens and are associated with a variety of health effects. Characterizing and quantifying the VOCs in the indoor environments is of paramount importance in order to implement preventive measures to minimize the human exposure. A correct assessment of human exposure or characterization of emission sources and indoor activities requires appropriate and efficient methods for sampling and analysis. Therefore, this review focuses on the different methodologies for monitoring VOC that must be selected when a sampling plan is designed considering the objective of the measure. Selecting the most suitable procedures for assessing VOCs requires proper knowledge on the existing standards and off-line (including the selection of the sorbent media) and online instrumentation. Knowing the advantages and drawbacks of the different techniques available can help to plan future studies.