Applied Technical Services conducts polymer VOC testing and analysis to ensure that our clients’ products fall within regulated emission standards. Indoor environments contain several sources of potential air pollutants. Activities such as cooking and cleaning create short-term VOC emissions, while building materials and furniture, among other items, may contribute to long-term air pollution. People generally spend most of their time indoors, so it is important to identify and regulate potential sources of indoor air pollutants. Polymers are common materials in consumer products. Polymers such as silicone, polypropylene, and nylon see frequent use in a variety of applications, including toys, auto parts, bottles, computers, and textiles. These materials often emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can be harmful in high enough concentrations.
Polymer VOC Testing Methods
Headspace gas chromatography (GC) is one of the most common methods for identifying polymer VOC levels. Headspace GC separates the VOCs for analysis by heating the sample material in a vial, thereby increasing the polymer’s emission rate, then collecting the headspace gas from the vial. At ATS, we test for several standards using headspace GC. ASTM D4526 is polymer-specific, and we test to a range of other VOC standards suitable for polymers.
ASTM D4526
ASTM D4526 is a standard for determining volatile components in polymers using static headspace gas chromatography. This test is suitable for both manual injection and automatic headspace analysis. ASTM D4526 yields qualitative and semiquantitative results that are comparable between samples.
VDA 278
The VDA 278 standard is a VOC testing procedure for non-metallic materials. While most used for testing automotive components, VDA 278 is suitable for testing in many industries. Several other standards for automotive parts and interiors, such as GMW 15634, also cover a range of materials, polymers included.
VOC Analysis with ATS
At Applied Technical Services, our chemists regularly perform VOC testing to a wide range of standards, including VDA, ISO, EPA, DIN, and SAE. They have extensive experience in testing for product certification and performance. ATS offers several methods for VOC analysis, such as:
- Chamber Testing
- Dynamic Thermodesorption
- Micro-chamber
- Odor
- Bag Testing
- Fogging
We are always adding to our VOC testing capabilities. If you need help determining which VOC testing method best fits your needs, contact our chemistry lab today.
VOC Analysis with ATS
Since 1967, ATS has offered high-quality service in testing, inspection, and consulting engineering. We aim to provide the best customer experience in every industry we serve by employing a team of experienced, qualified staff members. Our testing labs produce clear, detailed, and accurate results in a timely manner. If you have any questions about your tests or results, our customer service ambassadors will connect you with the most relevant staff member available.
If your company needs polymer VOC testing and analysis, contact ATS today. We take a closer look.
