VOC Measurement
VOC Measurement (Volatile Organic Compound) in buildings is important for monitoring indoor air quality and preventing health problems. VOCs are organic compounds that have a high vapor pressure at room temperature and can be emitted from building materials, art and crafts, furniture, cleaning products, and human activities, which can have harmful effects on health if they accumulate indoors. Anthropogenic volatile organic compounds are regulated by law, especially indoors, where concentrations are highest. Most VOCs are not acutely toxic but can have long-term chronic health effects. The high vapor pressure of VOCs correlates with a low boiling point, which relates to the number of sample molecules in the surrounding air, a property known as volatility.
Examples of VOC Measurement in Buildings:
Office Buildings and Workplaces. In workplaces, VOC levels are often measured to ensure that air quality is good and does not negatively affect employees' health and productivity. VOCs can be emitted from paints, furniture, office materials, and technical equipment, which can lead to poor air quality if ventilation is inadequate.
Schools and Preschools. In schools and preschools, VOC levels can rise due to materials in the building, such as vinyl flooring, paints, and adhesives. Children are particularly sensitive to VOCs, and high exposure can negatively affect their concentration and health. By measuring and regulating VOCs, schools can create a safer and healthier environment.
New Buildings or Newly Renovated Spaces. During new construction or renovation, materials and products that emit higher amounts of VOCs, such as paint, varnish, and adhesives, are often used. Here, VOC measurement is particularly important because these chemicals can remain in the air for an extended period and affect those who occupy the building.
Residential Buildings. In homes, VOC measurement may be relevant if a lot of chemical products are used for cleaning or if there are new furniture items that emit VOCs. In modern, tightly insulated houses, VOCs can accumulate, which can cause headaches, allergic reactions, and other health issues.
Industrial Environments and Laboratories. In industrial environments and laboratories where chemicals are regularly used, VOC measurement is crucial to ensure that the work environment is safe and that staff are not exposed to harmful levels of organic compounds.
Enkey's Solution for VOC Measurement
Enkey's sensors connect wirelessly to Enkey Building Insight®, allowing real-time readings of presence, temperature, relative humidity, air pressure, CO2, and VOCs. Presence reports are automatically generated based on a set schedule. This is cost-effective and facilitates analysis and optimization, as measurement data is collected and visualized automatically.