Off-Gassing

Back to Glossary

Off-Gassing

What is Off-Gassing?

The release of volatile organic compounds and chemical vapors from building materials into indoor air, affecting air quality and occupant health.

Description

Off-gassing is the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other chemical vapors from building materials, furnishings, and products into indoor air over time, which can affect indoor air quality, occupant health, and comfort, requiring consideration in material selection and building design for healthy indoor environments. This phenomenon occurs when chemicals used in manufacturing, processing, or treating materials gradually evaporate and enter the surrounding air. Understanding off-gassing is essential for creating healthy buildings and selecting appropriate materials that minimize indoor air pollution and protect occupant wellbeing.

The primary purposes include understanding how building materials affect indoor air quality and occupant health, selecting low-emission materials and products for healthier indoor environments, implementing strategies to minimize chemical exposure in buildings, ensuring compliance with indoor air quality standards and green building requirements, protecting sensitive individuals from chemical sensitivities and health impacts, supporting sustainable building practices through responsible material selection, and creating comfortable, healthy spaces for occupants to live and work.

Common sources involve building materials, finishes, furnishings, and products that release chemicals into indoor air.

FAQs

  • What is off-gassing in construction?

    Off-gassing is the release of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and chemical vapors from building materials, furnishings, and products into indoor air over time.

  • What materials commonly off-gas?

    Common sources include paints, adhesives, carpets, vinyl flooring, particleboard, insulation, and various finishes and sealants.

  • How long does off-gassing last?

    Off-gassing duration varies by material, but most materials have highest emissions initially, decreasing over weeks to months, with some continuing at low levels for years.

  • Is off-gassing harmful to health?

    Off-gassing can cause health effects ranging from minor irritation to more serious respiratory problems, especially for sensitive individuals.

  • How can off-gassing be reduced?

    Strategies include selecting low-emission materials, increasing ventilation, allowing materials to off-gas before occupancy, and using air filtration.

  • What are low-VOC materials?

    Low-VOC materials are products formulated to emit fewer volatile organic compounds, often certified by programs like GREENGUARD or similar standards.

  • Can off-gassing be measured?

    Yes, off-gassing can be measured through air quality testing for specific chemicals and VOCs, and materials can be tested for emission potential.

Fun Fact

Fun Fact: The term “off-gassing” was first used in the aerospace industry in the 1960s when NASA discovered that materials in spacecraft were releasing gases that could contaminate sensitive equipment! The “new car smell” that many people enjoy is actually off-gassing from plastics, adhesives, and other materials. Interestingly, some plants like spider plants and peace lilies can help reduce indoor air pollution by absorbing certain VOCs through their leaves and roots!

CSI Code

01 60 00

NAHB Code

990