What is VOC?
VOC stands for Volatile Organic Compounds, a type of organic compound that easily evaporates at room temperature. They have high vapor pressure and low water solubility, and can enter the air through evaporation, participate in chemical reactions, and form photochemical smog or air pollutants. Common VOC include formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, ethanol, ethyl acetate, etc.
VOC come from a wide range of sources, including industrial production, building materials, daily chemicals such as coatings, cleaning agents, adhesives, and transportation. Adhesive sealant, as a common chemical material used in construction and industry, may contain VOC in its composition.
The impact of VOC on health and the environment
The impact on health
Short term exposure: can cause symptoms such as dizziness, headache, nausea, throat and eye irritation.
Long term exposure: Certain VOCs (such as benzene) are considered carcinogenic and may cause chronic respiratory diseases and neurological damage.
The impact is greater on sensitive populations such as children, pregnant women, and the elderly.
Impact on the environment
VOC and nitrogen oxides undergo chemical reactions under sunlight, generating ozone and photochemical smog, becoming one of the important causes of air pollution.
VOC emissions may also lead to indoor air pollution and global warming.
Does the adhesive sealant contain VOCs
Whether adhesive sealant contains VOCs mainly depends on its type and formula composition.
Traditional sealant
Many early formulations of sealants contained highly volatile organic solvents, such as toluene and ethyl acetate, which were the main sources of VOCs. During use and curing, these solvents will evaporate into the air, causing adverse effects on human health and the environment.
Modern environmentally friendly sealant
With the increasing demand for environmental protection, more and more adhesive sealants are adopting low VOC or VOC free formulas, mainly divided into the following categories:
Water based sealant: Using water as a solvent, it contains almost no VOCs and is widely used in indoor decoration and industrial fields.
Solvent free sealant: cured through chemical reactions, does not rely on solvent evaporation, and has extremely low VOC content.
Silicone sealant: Some high-performance silicone sealants are environmentally friendly formulas that do not contain organic solvents, but some low-end products may contain trace amounts of VOCs.
Polyurethane sealant: After improvement, modern polyurethane sealant has significantly reduced VOC content, and some products can meet environmental standards.
Method for determining whether adhesive sealant contains VOCs
View product description
The technical data sheet (TDS) of a product usually indicates the VOC content.
The Safety Data Sheet (SDS) will list ingredient information, including whether it contains VOCs.
Understand product certification
International standards, such as LEED certification in the United States and REACH regulations in the European Union, have strict restrictions on VOC content.
Label identification: Choose products labeled as “low VOC” or “no VOC”, which are usually more environmentally friendly.
Consult adhesive manufacturers
Contact the product provider directly for detailed information.
Inquire whether it complies with specific environmental standards or regulations.
The advantages of using low VOC or VOC free sealant
Improving health and safety
Reduce health threats to construction workers and users, especially in enclosed spaces.
Reduce the risk of indoor air pollution and improve the quality of living environment.
Meets environmental requirements
Meets the high standard requirements for environmental protection in modern architecture and industrial fields.
Reduce the emission of air pollutants and support sustainable development.
Improve product performance
Many low VOC or VOC free sealants have performance advantages, such as stronger durability and better weather resistance.
Summary
Whether adhesive sealant contains VOCs depends on its formula composition and production process. Traditional sealants may contain high levels of VOCs, while modern environmentally friendly sealants typically use low VOC or VOC free formulas, which are safer and more environmentally friendly. To ensure that the selected products meet health and environmental requirements, it is recommended to choose low VOC or VOC free sealants with relevant certifications, and carefully read the product technical specifications and safety data sheets.
In the future, with the continuous strengthening of environmental regulations and the advancement of green technology, the adhesive sealant industry will further develop towards VOC free direction, making greater contributions to human health and the earth’s environment.
label: VOC, sealant, adhesive sealant, polyurethane sealant
