volatile organic compound

chemistry

Also known as: VOC

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June 17, 2026

Quick Summary

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are organic chemicals that readily evaporate at room temperature. They are carbon-containing molecules that can be released from various sources, including fuels, solvents, paints, and plastics. Many VOCs are considered air toxics and can pose health risks, contributing to issues like cancer, genetic mutations, and adverse effects on brain development.1

VOCs are also significant contributors to air pollution, particularly in the formation of ground-level ozone, a key component of photochemical smog. Some VOCs also act as greenhouse gases, contributing to global warming. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates many of these substances as hazardous air pollutants.1

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air pollution
Air toxics
Many are volatile organic compounds (VOCs), organic compounds that readily evaporate. VOCs include pure hydrocarbons, partially oxidized hydrocarbons, and organic compounds containing chlorine, sulfur, or nitrogen. They are widely used as fuels (e.g., propane and gasoline), as paint thinners and solvents, and in
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Many are volatile organic compounds (VOCs), organic compounds that readily evaporate. VOCs include pure hydrocarbons, partially oxidized hydrocarbons, and organic compounds containing chlorine, sulfur, or nitrogen. They are widely used as fuels (e.g., propane and gasoline), as paint thinners and solvents, and in
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air pollution control
Control of gases
…criteria pollutants, as well as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other gaseous air toxics, are controlled by means of three basic techniques: absorption, adsorption, and incineration (or combustion). These techniques can be employed singly or in combination. They are effective against the major greenhouse gases as well. In addition, a…
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…criteria pollutants, as well as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other gaseous air toxics, are controlled by means of three basic techniques: absorption, adsorption, and incineration (or combustion). These techniques can be employed singly or in combination. They are effective against the major greenhouse gases as well. In addition, a…
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major industrial polymers
Alkyds and oil-free coating polyesters
…of volatile organic content (VOC) that can be released into the air. (In oil-based surface coatings, VOC is represented by the solvents.) In addition, alkyd resins tend to have lower exterior durability than many of the newer polymer systems. They retain their use in low-performance industrial coatings and interior…
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…of volatile organic content (VOC) that can be released into the air. (In oil-based surface coatings, VOC is represented by the solvents.) In addition, alkyd resins tend to have lower exterior durability than many of the newer polymer systems. They retain their use in low-performance industrial coatings and interior…
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surface coating
Solvents and carrier liquids
…low-molecular-weight substances, known collectively as volatile organic compounds (VOC), are released into the atmosphere upon application and curing of the coating. At low elevations they contribute to the generation of ozone, which is a major component of air pollution in urban areas. Therefore, cities such as Los Angeles that have…
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…low-molecular-weight substances, known collectively as volatile organic compounds (VOC), are released into the atmosphere upon application and curing of the coating. At low elevations they contribute to the generation of ozone, which is a major component of air pollution in urban areas. Therefore, cities such as Los Angeles that have…
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