Study reveals that the concept of TVOC may be misused

Formacare co-sponsored a scientific review by the Fraunhofer WKI Institute to get a deeper understanding of how TVOC (Total volatile organic compounds) are defined and to what extent the parameter is used correctly.

The concept of TVOC has been used for over 40 years as a decisive criterion to assess whether construction products are suitable for indoor use and air quality. The aim of this labelling and screening strategy is to help the users select appropriate products for a pleasant and healthy environment, keeping the concentration of indoor air pollutants as low as possible. This indicator has been applied among others to solid floor materials.

According to different sources, TVOC can affect your health and wellbeing, as they impact how comfortable you feel inside a building. Volatile organic compounds are organic chemicals released as a gas at room temperature. Common complaints to exposure include, and are not limited to, eye and respiratory tract irritation, headaches and dizziness.