The human nose contains six million olfactory receptors which constantly scan our environment for odours and can detect even low levels of some particularly pungent compounds. However, the human nose cannot perceive and differentiate the entire spectrum of volatile (VOCs) and semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs), or how they interact.

VOCs typically have a low molecular weight, readily escape into the surrounding atmosphere, and may have odour thresholds in the range of parts per billion. Emissions Analytics, utilising the latest two-dimensional gas chromatography and time-of-flight mass spectrometry can identify the root cause of an elevated VOC level or unpleasant odour. We can assist with the characterisation and quantitation of VOCs at the sub-ppm level in raw and composite materials.

Services

• Quick product screening

• Raw material evaluation and profiling

• Quality control of production process

• R&D for lower-emission products

• Competitor and best-in-class comparison

• Product uniformity testing

• Customer complaint investigation

Materials

• Flooring and carpets

• Furniture, leather and textiles

• Cleaning products and solvents

• Plastics and wood-based materials

• Thermal and sound insulation

• Paint, dies and coatings

• Adhesives and sealants

Relevant standards

• VDA 278

• ISO 12219: Interior air of road vehicles

• ASTM D5116

• ASTM D6670

• ASTM D7143

• ASTM WK21341

Read more about our laboratory capabilities.