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Volatile organic compound

Similar term(s): VOC.

Definition:

Any organic (carbon-containing) compound that evaporates readily to the atmosphere at room temperature.

VOCs contribute significantly to smog production and certain health problems.

VOCs often have odors, examples include gasoline, alcohol, and the solvents used in paints.

Source: GreenFacts

More:

The total amount of VOCs may serve as a very general indicator of indoor air quality.

Because VOCs mixtures can vary a lot in composition, total VOCs are not a useful measure for risk assessment.

Source: GreenFacts

Related words:

Primary & secondary particles

Translation(s):

Deutsch: Flüchtige organische Verbindung
Español: Compuesto orgánico volátil
Français: Composé organique volatil

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