Impurities that are captured by the air purifier: #3 Volatile organic compounds

In the first part of our miniseries we detailed the dangers associated with dust, while the second part was dedicated to problems with odours and gases. In this article, we'll discuss the risks of different volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and how to effectively combat them with an air purifier.

Exposure to VOCs can cause a range of symptoms, including headaches, dizziness, eye and throat irritation, and even cancer. Long-term exposure to high levels of VOCs is associated with increased risk of respiratory and cardiovascular disease, as well as developmental and reproductive problems. 

You can find them in your home

Where can we find VOCs at home?

• Paints and coatings: VOCs are commonly found in paints, varnishes and other coatings. When these products are applied, VOCs are released into the air.

• Cleaning products: Many cleaning products such as disinfectants, degreasers and carpet cleaners contain VOCs that can be released into the air when they are used.
• Personal care products: Many personal care products, such as perfumes, hairsprays and deodorants, contain VOCs that can be released into the air.

• Building materials: Some building materials, such as particleboard, plywood and carpeting, contain VOCs that can be released into the air over time.
• Gasoline and fuels: Gasoline and other fuels can release VOCs into the air when stored or used indoors.
• Tobacco smoke: Tobacco smoke contains many VOCs that can be harmful to health.

The most effective way to remove VOCs from the air and improve indoor air quality is to purchase an air purifier. They work by using a combination of filters and air purification technologies to remove pollutants from the air. Activated carbon filters are particularly effective at removing VOCs because they are porous and can absorb a wide range of chemicals. When air containing VOCs passes through an activated carbon filter, the VOCs are trapped in the filter and clean air is returned to the room.

Air purifiers can also use other air purification technologies such as ultraviolet (UV), photocatalytic oxidation (PCO) and ionisation to remove VOCs. UV uses ultraviolet light to destroy pollutants, while PCO uses a catalyst to break down volatile organic compounds into harmless substances. Ionization creates negatively charged ions that bind to positively charged VOCs, causing them to fall to the ground and remove them from the air.

Air purifiers can help filter out VOCs, but it is also important to take steps to reduce VOC emissions in the first place. This can include using natural cleaning products, choosing paints and building materials with low VOC content, and limiting the use of air fresheners and other scented products. Proper ventilation is also essential to prevent the buildup of VOCs indoors.

Do you know them?

Let's take a closer look at the most common VOCs:

• Benzene: a colorless, sweet-smelling liquid commonly found in gasoline and tobacco smoke. It is a known carcinogen and can also cause damage to the central nervous system.
• Formaldehyde: a colourless gas with a strong pungent odour that is used in many building materials such as plywood and particleboard, and in household products such as cleaning and personal care products. It is a known carcinogen and can also cause respiratory and skin irritation.
• Toluene: a clear, colourless liquid with a sweet, pungent odour that is commonly used as a solvent in paints, adhesives and petrol. It can cause damage to the central nervous system and respiratory irritation.
• Xylene: a colourless liquid with a sweet, pungent odour that is used as a solvent in paints, coatings and cleaning products. May cause central nervous system damage and respiratory irritation.
• Acetone: a colourless liquid with a sweet fruity odour that is commonly used as a solvent in nail polish removers, paint thinners and adhesives. It can cause skin irritation and damage to the central nervous system.

In conclusion, VOCs pose a significant threat to human health and the environment. However, activated carbon air purifiers and HEPA filters can help reduce exposure to these harmful chemicals. By investing in an air purifier, you can create a safer and healthier indoor environment for yourself and your loved ones.