EPA-600/R-93-108a
June 1993
CATALOG OF MATERIALS AS POTENTIAL SOURCES
OF INDOOR AIR EMISSIONS
Volume 1. Insulation, Wallcoverings, Resilient Root Coverings, Carpet,
Adhesives, Sealants and Caulks, and Pesticides
by:
Ann E. Lelnlnger, Kristine A. Scott, E. Christopher Sarsony, Lisa C. Huff,
Candace R. Blackley, and Margie B. Stockton
Radian Corporation
Post Office Box 13000
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709
EPA Contract No. 68-D1-0031
Project Officer
James B. White
Air and Energy Engineering Research Laboratory
U. S. Environmental Protection Agency
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina 27711
Prepared for:
U. S. Environmental Protection Agency
Office of Research and Development
Washington, D. C. 20460
-------
TECHNICAL REPORT DATA
(Please read Instructions on the reverse before comple
1. REPORT NO. 2.
E PA-600/R-93-108 a
3.
4. TITLE AND SU3TITLE
Catalog of Materials as Sources of Potential Indoor
Air Emissions, Volume I. Insulation, Wallcoverings,
; Resilient Floor Coverings, 'Carpet, Adhesives,*
5. REPORT DATE
June 1993
6. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION CODE
7. authorisi^i Leininger, K. Scott, C. Sarsony, L. Huff,
C. Blackley, and M. Stockton
8. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION REPORT NO.
DCN:92-239-022-35-05
9. PERFORMING ORGANIZATION NAME AND ADDRESS
Radian Corporation
P. C. Box 13000
Researxh Triangle Park, North Carolina 27709
10. PROGRAM ELEMENT NO.
11. CONTRACT/GRANT NO.
68- D1-0031/WA 1/035
12. SPONSORING AGENCY NAME AND ADDRESS
EPA, Office of Research and Development
Air and Energy Engineering Research Laboratory
Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
13. TYPE OF REPORT AND PERIOD COVERED
Final; 9/91 - 9/92
14. SPONSORING AGENCY CODE
EPA/600/13
is, supplementary notes ^EERL project officer is James B. White, Mail Drop 54, 919 /541"
1189. (*)Sealants and Caulks, and Pesticides.
is. abstract rep0rj. discusses and presents data on constituents and emissions from
products that have the potential] to impact the indoor airfenvironment. It is a tool to
be used by researchers to help organize the study of materials as potential sources
of indoor air emissions. Included are sections on'^seven product categories: insula-
tion, wallcoverings, resilient floor coverings, carpet, adhesives, sealants andr }
caulks, and pesticides. Each section presents a classification scheme for the pro-
duct; sales and usage volume data, qualitative data on product composition, and
quantitative and qualitative data on emission rates to the indoor air. Emissions in-
formation is presented only for volatile organic compounds (VCCs) because these are
the compounds most likely to be emitted from materials found in homes and office
buildings. Data tables summarizing available emissions and constituent data are pro-
vided, and are organized according to the classification scheme for each product
cat egory.
17. KEY WORDS AND DOCUMENT ANALYSIS
a DESCRIPTORS
b. IDENTIFIERS/OPEN ENDED TERMS
c. COSATl Field/Group
Pollution Carpets
Emission Adhesives
Houses Sealing Compounds
Office Buildings Pesticides
Insulation
W allpaper
Floor Coverings
Pollution Control
Stationary Sources
Indoor Air
Materials
W allcoverings
13 B HE
14 G 11A
13 M
06F
11L
13 C
18. DISTRIBUTION STATEMENT
Release to Public
19. SECURITY CLASS (This Report)
Unclassified
20 SECURITY CLASS (This page)
Unclassified
21. NO. OF PAGES
292
22. PRICE
EPA Form 2220-t (9-73)
-------
ABSTRACT
This* Catalog of Materials as Sources of Indoor Air Emissions^ presents a discussion of and data
on constituents and em'issioFs"from products that have the potential to impact the indoor air
environment. The Catalog is intended as a tool to be used by researchers to help organize the study of
materials as potential sources of indoor air emissions. Included in this Catalog are sections on seven
product categories: insulation, wallcoverings, resilient floor coverings, carpet, adhesives, sealants and
caulks, and pesticides. Each section presents a classification scheme for the product category, sales
and usage volume data, qualitative data on product composition, and quantitative and qualitative data on
emission rates to the indoor air. Emissions information is presented only for volatile organic compounds
(VOCs) because these are the compounds most likely to be emitted from materials found in homes and
office buildings. Data tables summarizing available emissions and constituent data are provided, and are
organized according to the classification scheme presented for each product category.
-------
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section Page
ABSTRACT ii
FIGURES vi
TABLES vii
INTRODUCTION vlii
Classification of Materials as Sources be
Sources of Information xl
Data Management xxi
Conclusions xxii
REFERENCES xxiv
1.0 INSULATION PRODUCTS 1-1
1.1 Description of Product Category 1-1
1.1.1 Product Classification 1-1
1.1.2 Product Major Uses 1-4
1.1.3 Sales and Production 1-4
1.2 Major Constituents of Concern 1-6
1.2.1 Fibrous Insulation 1-7
1.2.2 Foam Insulation 1-7
1.2.3 Reflective Insulation 1-7
1.3 Emissions Information 1-7
1.3.1 Fibrous Insulation 1-8
1.3.2 Foam Insulation 1-9
1.3.3 Reflective Insulation 1-9
1.4 Data Tables 1-9
REFERENCES 1-29
BIBLIOGRAPHY 1-32
2.0 WALLCOVERING 2-1
2.1 Description of Product Category 2-1
2.1.1 Product Classification 2-1
2.1.2 Product Major Uses 2-4
2.1.3 Sales and Production 2-4
2.2 Major Constituents of Concern 2-6
2.3 Emissions Information 2-7
2.4 Data Tables 2-8
REFERENCES 2-22
iii
-------
TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Section Page
3.0 RESILIENT FLOOR COVERING 3-1
3.1 Description of Product Category 3-1
3.1.1 Product Classification 3-1
3.1.2 Major Product Uses 3-3
3.1.3 Sales and Production 3-4
3.2 Major Constituents of Concern 3-5
3.3 Emissions Information 3-6
3.4 Data Tables 3-7
REFERENCES 3-22
4.0 CARPET 4-1
4.1 Description of Product Category 4-1
4.1.1 Product Classification 4-1
4.1.2 Product Major Uses 4-3
4.1.3 Sales and Production 4-3
4.2 Major Constituents of Concern 4-7
4.3 Emissions Information 4-9
4.4 Data Tables 4-11
GLOSSARY 4-44
REFERENCES 4-46
5.0 ADHESIVES 5-1
5.1 Description of Product Category 5-1
5.1.1 Product Classification 5-1
5.1.2 Product Major Uses 5-4
5.1.3 Sales and Production 5-4
5.2 Major Constituents of Concern 5-14
5.3 Emissions Information 5-16
5.4 Data Tables 5-17
REFERENCES 5-41
BIBLIOGRAPHY 5-42
6.0 SEALANTS AND CAULKS 6-1
6.1 Description of Product Category 6-1
6 1.1 Product Classification 6-1
6.1.2 Product Major Uses 6-3
6.1.3 Sales and Production 6-7
6.2 Major Constituents of Concern 6-7
6.3 Emissions Information 6-9
iv
-------
TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Section Page
6.4 Data Tables 6-10
REFERENCES 6-37
BIBLIOGRAPHY 6-38
7.0 PESTICIDE PRODUCTS 7-1
7.1 Description of Product Category 7-1
7.1.1 Product Classification 7-1
7.1.2 Product Major Uses 7-2
7.1.3 Sales and Production 7-3
7.2 Major Constituents of Concern 7-5
7.2.1 Pesticide Formulations 7-7
7.3 Emissions Information 7-10
7.4 Data Tables 7-14
REFERENCES 7-32
ADDITIONAL CONTACTS 7-35
APPENDIX A: SUMMARY OF EMISSION RATES BY POLLUTANT AND MATERIAL A-1
v
-------
LIST OF FIGURES
Figure Page
1 Classification Scheme for All Product Categories xii
2 Limitations of Data Presented in the Catalog xviii
1-1 Classification of Insulation Products by Material and Product Form 1-2
2-1 Classification of Wallcoverings 2-3
3-1 Classification of Resilient Flooring Products 3-1
4-1 Classification of Carpet by Major Components 4-2
4-2 Structural Components of Tufted Carpet with Primary and Secondary Backings 4-6
4-3 Structural Components of Tufted Carpet with Unitary Backing 4-6
5-1 Classification of Adhesives by Polymer Type 5-2
6-1 Classification of Sealants by Resin Type 6-2
7-1 Classification of Pesticide Products 7-3
vi
-------
UST OF TABLES
Table Page
1 Summary of Data Sources xvii
2 Databases Identified xix
1-1 Common Uses and Locations for Insulation Products 1-5
1-2 Value of Insulation Product Shipments for 1987 1-6
2-1 Annual Product Shipments of Wallcoverings 2-5
3-1 Major Uses of Resilient Flooring 3-3
3-2 Resilient Flooring Sales and Projected Sales in the United States 3-4
4-1 Usage of the Most Common Components of Carpet Systems 4-4
4-2 1989 Consumption of Carpet and Rugs 4-3
5-1 Adhesives End Use and Polymer Type (Walls) 5-5
5-2 Adhesives End Use and Polymer Type (Flooring) 5-7
5-3 Adhesives End Use and Polymer Type (Insulation) 5-9
5-4 Adhesives End Use and Polymer Type (Miscellaneous) 5-10
5-5 Adhesives End Use and Polymer Type (General) 5-12
5-6 Adhesives Demand - Total Market 1990-1995 (in Millions of Pounds) . 5-13
5-7 Typical Organic Solvents and their Water Miscibility 5-15
6-1 Caulks and Sealants Classification Scheme and End Use: Low Movement Sealants 6-4
6-2 Caulks and Sealants Classification Scheme and End Use: Medium Movement Sealants . . 6-5
6-3 Caulks and Sealants Classification Scheme and End Use: High Movement Sealants 6-6
6-4 U.S. Market for Caulks and Sealants 1990-1995 6-8
7-1 Pesticide Product Forms, Active Components, Indoor Uses, and Target Insects 7-4
7-2 1987 Sales/Usage Data 7-6
7-3 Household Insecticide Sales for 1990 and Projected Household Insecticide Sales
for 1991-1995 7-6
7-4 Summary of Common Inert Constituents and Additives Found in Consumer Pesticides . . . 7-11
vii
-------
INTRODUCTION
A variety of research efforts, both U.S. and international, have focused on materials as potential
sources of indoor air emissions. These research efforts are not concentrated on any one group of
products, nor are standard sampling and analytical methods used in the research. In addition, there is
no consistency in the terminology used to describe the products tested. For instance, while one
researcher may describe the product tested as simply an adhesive, another researcher may describe the
product tested as an ethylene/vinyl acetate adhesive used on wood products. Test methods include
chamber studies, test homes, and headspace studies. This lack of consistency in test methods and
terminology makes the data generated in the research efforts difficult to compare.
In 1990 the Air and Energy Engineering Research Laboratory (AEERL) of the U. S. Environmental
Protection Agency {U.S. EPA) published the Classification of Materials as Potential Sources of Indoor Air
Pollution.1 EPA-600/8-90-074. It presents a classification of building materials, fixtures and furnishings,
and consumer products used or found in homes or offices, regardless of their potential to emit. A
subset of materials and products was identified that is thought to represent the population of
manufactured items that warrant further study as sources of indoor air emissions. This Catalog provides
additional information on the subset of materials and products thought to be a potential source of indoor
air emissions deserving further study. The objectives of developing the Catalog of Materials as Sources
of Indoor Air Emissions were: (1) to generate a useful scheme for presenting the variety of material
sources of indoor air emissions in homes and offices; and (2) to present available usage, constituent,
and emissions data for these material sources.
The Catalog is presented as a tool for researchers to help organize study of materials as
potential sources of Indoor air emissions. Sales and usage information provide an indication of the
relative importance of products and the magnitude of potential exposure on a national scale.
Information on the volatile constituents in products gives an indication of compounds that could
potentially be emitted. A summary compilation of existing volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions
data indicates how well characterized different products are in terms of their contribution to indoor air
contamination. The data tables present summaries of existing emissions data identified in the literature
or through direct contact with researchers. The emissions data presented in the literature were
generated over a variety of time scales. The data presented in the data tables are single points, often
resulting from time averaging. They do not reflect the time dependency often associated with emission
rates. In most cases, emission rates of VOCs from a product will decrease over time. Emission rates
are generally highest when the product is new, or the coating or adhesive is initially applied.
viii
-------
It should also be noted that there is a variety of testing and analytical methods used to develop
data, and each method has inherent limitations. For instance, Tenax tubes are often used to collect
samples by drawing the air through a cartridge containing Tenax. Compounds captured on the Tenax
are determined by thermal desorption techniques, and generally have boiling points in the range of
80-200°C. Compounds outside of this range may break through the sorbent and not be collected.
The remainder of this introduction describes the Catalog and its development, including the
product classification system, a description of the sources of information used to develop the Catalog, a
discussion of data management, and conclusions based on the information presented. Sections 1 -7
comprise the Catalog itself.
Classification of Materials as Sources
Our understanding of the more subtle effects of indoor air emissions is largely incomplete.
Identification of the sources of emissions, beyond those few that are obvious problems, is a particularly
important gap in our understanding of the problem. The Classification of Materials as Potential Sources
of Indoor Air Pollution1 was designed to lay a foundation for a systematic analysis of the role of
materials In influencing indoor air quality. The approach involved a systematic identification and
categorization of all products that are:
• Construction components of buildings;
• Fixtures and furnishings; and
• Consumer goods that are brought Into buildings in the course of normal use.
A number of sources of information containing categorization or classification of materials were
identified during the course of the study, and are described in the classification report. The products
and sales information in these sources were compared for usefulness of classification divisions and level
of detail. It was concluded that the Census of Manufactures presented the most comprehensive list of
the realm of products of interest to the study, and employed categories useful to indoor air quality study.
A decision was therefore made to use data presented in the Current Industry Series Reports of the
Census of Manufactures as a basis for initial studies.2 The census data are based on the Standard
Industrial Classification (SIC) system, which is commonly used by industry and government agencies.
The next step involved identifying those products or materials in the classification that were
thought to be potential sources of indoor air emissions. This was a subjective process, based on
consideration of the following factors:
-------
• The quantity produced: how pervasive is the product in the environment?
• Compositional information: based on readily available published information, what volatile
compounds could potentially be emitted?
• The nature of its use: what is the likelihood of human contact with emissions from these
materials?
Fourteen categories of products were organized for further study. Seven of these product
categories are included in this Catalog of Materials as Sources of Indoor Air Emissions. The additional
categories will be published in a second volume of this Catalog. The categories were chosen based on
their high potential to emit potentially harmful compounds to the indoor air in homes and office buildings
on a widespread basis. These fourteen categories are:
• Insulation Products*
• Wallcoverings*
• Resilient Floor Covering*
• Carpet*
• Adhesives*
• Caulks and Sealants*
• Pesticide Products*
• Paints and Coatings
• Wood Products
• Upholstered Furniture
• Fabricated Rubber Products
• Mineral Products
• Plastic Products
• Construction Paper Products
The published classification system was used initially to help focus data-gathering efforts in each
product category. However, refinement of the classification system was needed as the study
progressed. In many cases, it was more reasonable to classify the products based on how they were
used in the home. This was especially true of the adhesives, and caulks and sealants categories, where
some products are used in only one application (e.g., gluing ceramic tiles to a wooden floor). In other
instances, classification of products based on the manufacturing process was more appropriate For
instance, insulation can be manufactured as mineral fibers, foams, and cellulose fibers. Each of these
types of insulation may be used in a variety of applications (e.g., in walls, ceilings etc.). In the case of
'Included in this volume.
x
-------
I
the carpet category, it was necessary to divide the product into its component parts (e.g., backing, foam
underlayment, fibers) to provide a reasonable classification scheme.
Therefore, it was necessary to further define each product category studied to develop this
classification scheme. In all cases, classification schemes were developed with two goals in mind: to
develop a useful scheme to present the variety of products in the category; and to present usage,
constituent and emissions data for the various products In each product category in a manner that
allowed easy comparison of available information. This was especially important in many categories
(carpets, for example) where different components of the product could have different constituents and
emissions. However, the starting point for all product category organization was based on the published
classification report and, therefore, ail product categories still follow the SIC system to some extent. The
classification schemes used for each product category are presented in Figure 1. Included as an
appendix to this Catalog are tables that provide information that allows the user to compare emission
rates of a single VOC from different materials. For example, all materials that were found to emit
formaldehyde are listed in one table.
Sources of Information
There are a wide variety of information sources available that provide fairly limited data on
chemical constituents and emissions from materials that may be brought into the home or office. Much
of this information is found in technical reports summarizing research efforts, but trade associations,
academic institutions, and retailers/wholesalers often provide information on the composition of
products and provide perspective on which products within a specific category are most commonly
used and which products may be more likely to emit pollutants. A summary of the types of information
sources used to develop this Catalog is presented in Table 1.
Although the technical references presented good sources of emissions and constituent data,
the amount and level of detail of data are not consistent among the product categories. While emissions
of one chemical from a product (e.g., formaldehyde from carpets) may be well characterized, emissions
of other VOCs from that same product may not be as well understood. This type of inconsistency in
available information was typical for most of the product categories.
The trade associations, trade publications, retailers, distributors, and many of the journals
researched provided product constituent information as well as useful sales data.
xl
-------
I. INSULATION PRODUCTS
A. Fibrous
1. Mineral fiber
a. batts, blankets, rolls
b. loose fibers
c. rigid
2. Cellulose, loose fibers
B. Foam
1. Rigid
a. polystyrene
b. polyurethane and polyisocyanurate
c. phenolic-based
2. Foamed-in-place
a. polyurethane
b. polyisocyanurate
c. urea-based foams
3. Elastomeric (foam rubber)
C. Reflective
II. WALLCOVERING
A. Wallpaper
1. Paper with less than 2 mils3 of coating
a. non-strippable
b. dry-strippable
2. Paper-backed, coated, or laminated with 2 mils3 of plastics or more
a. pre-pasted
b. non-pasted
3. Fabric-backed, coated, or laminated with vinyl chloride polymer
a. woven
b. non-woven
4. Fabric-backed, coated, or laminated with other plastics
a. woven
b. non-woven
B. Paneling
C. Other wallcoverings
a Note: 1 mil =• 1/1000 of an inch.
Figure 1. Classification Scheme for All Product Categories
xii
-------
III. RESILIENT FLOOR COVERINGS
A. Sheet vinyl flooring
B. Floor tile
1. Vinyl tile
2. Vinyl composition tile
C. Other (nonvinyl) resilient floor coverings {linoleum, rubber, cork)
IV. CARPET
A. Synthetic fiber carpets
1. Common fiber processing and finishing treatments
a. stain guard
b. soil release (e.g., fluorocarbon)
c. antimicrobial treatment
B. Wool fiber carpets
1. Common fiber processing and finishing treatments
a. stain guard
b. insect repellents
C. Backings and backing adhesives
1. Polypropylene
2. Jute
3. Backing adhesives
D. Cushion materials
1. Bonded urethane
2. Prime urethane
3. Others
Figure 1. (Continued)
xiii
-------
V. ADHESIVES
A. Natural-based adhesives
1.
Natural vegetable-based adhesives
a. starches
b. dextrins
2.
Natural animal-based adhesives
a. casein
3.
Other natural adhesives
a. oleoresinous
b. bituminous (asphaltics)
B. Synthetic-based adhesives
1.
Solid polymer/solid rubber
a, styrene butadiene rubber (SBR)
b. neoprene rubber
c. nitrile rubber
d. butyl rubber
e. natural rubber
f. polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
g. polyurethane (PUR)
2.
Liquid polymer
a. epoxy
b. polyurethane (PUR)
c. phenollcs (resorcinoi)
d. polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH)
e. amino (urea formaldehyde/melamine formaldehyde)
f. nitrile
g. silicone
3.
Emulsions
a. latex acrylics
b. polyvinyl acetate (PVAC)
c. styrene butadiene latex
d. neoprene latex
e. natural rubber latex
4.
Hot melts
a. ethylene vinyl acetate
5.
Pressure-sensitive
a. natural rubber
b. styrene butadiene rubber
6.
Latex acrylics
Figure 1. (Continued)
xiv
-------
Vi. CAULKS AND SEALANTS
A. Natural-based sealants
1. Natural oil-based sealants
a. oleoresinous
2. Natural bituminous-based sealants
a. asphaltics
B. Synthetic-based sealants
1. Solid rubber/solid polymer
a. butyl rubber
b. chlorosulfonated polyethylene (Hypalon)
c. acrylic rubber
d. nitrile rubber
e. neoprene rubber
f. styrene butadiene rubber
2. Emulsions
a. polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
b. Satex acrylics
c. polyvinyl acetate (PVAC)
d. natural rubber latex
e styrene butadiene latex
3. Liquid polymers
a. polysulfide
b. polyurethane (PUR)
c. silicones
d. polyisobutylene (PIB)
e. epoxy
f. polybutene
4. Tapes and foams
a. butyl (post/preformed tape)
b. polyvinyl chloride (foam tape)
c. polyurethane (foam)
d. polybutene (preformed tape)
e. polyisobutylene (preformed tape)
f. thermoplastic rubber
Figure 1. (Continued)
xv
-------
VII. pesticides'3
A. Insecticides
1. Crawling insects
a. aerosols
b. nonaerosols
2. Flying insects
a. aerosols
b nonaerosols
B. Insect repellents (Includes attractants for Insects, birds, fish, and other animals)
C. Fungicides
1. Household mildew remover
2. Fungicides for plants
D. Rodenticldes
E. Herbicides
F. Household pesticidal preparations, including commercial exterminants and termiticides
G. Outdoor pesticides
k This list contains the types of pesticides included in this catalog. Other pesticides have not yet been investigated.
Figure 1. (Continued)
xvi
-------
Table 1. Summary of Data Sources
Literature Searches
Industry Contacts
Other Sources
Published Technical Studies
Conference Proceedings
On-line Technical Databases
Journals
Trade Publications
Manufacturers
Trade Associations
Retailers/Distributors
Architects
Contractors
Installers
Independent Researchers
State and Federal Agencies
Academic Institutions
Databases
These information sources did not necessarily provide technical data, but the anecdotal information
provided on trends in the industry (e.g., increased use of water-based paints and nylon carpets), helped
focus data-gathering efforts.
Contacts with independent researchers, personnel at academic institutions, and State and Federal
agencies provided a mix of information. Often, this information was qualitative, where a researcher
performed qualitative emission studies identifying chemicals emitted from products but did not quantify
them (e.g., headspace studies). In other cases, it was learned that very little work has been performed
on certain categories.
In addition to literature searches and industry contacts, "industry studies" were performed on
many of the products in which a review of the manufacturing process determined the volatile
constituents in products that could potentially be emitted. These studies had several components. The
first step involved investigating general references on manufacturing processes, including references
such as the Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Manufacturing,3 Chemical Processes Use Trees,4 EPA
Industrial Process Profiles Series,5 and general formulary references. A second component of the
industry study involved contacting individuals familiar with the industry being Investigated. These people
included technical researchers, personnel at academic institutions, and trade association representatives.
The third component involved directly contacting product manufacturers and distributors. These
contacts often provided useful information and literature on manufacturing of the products.
It should be noted that the data presented In this Catalog did not go through EPA quality
assurance. Rather, data from published sources is assumed to have undergone quality assurance and
peer review checks prior to publication. For information and assessment of the quality of any particular
xvii
-------
study presented here, the reader should refer to the original cited reference. A summary of the
limitations of the data presented in this Catalog is presented in Figure 2.
• Data did not go through EPA quality assurance. The data are reported directly from
the reference in which it appears and presented in the Catalog.
• Data are archival (i.e., there is no Interpretation of the data presented). The Catalog
is a summary of available data found at the time of the data gathering efforts.
• Data presented are the result of a variety of test and analytical methods.
• Data are not part of a directed study, but rather the result of Individual research
efforts.
Figure 2. Limitations of Data Presented in the Catalog
Several databases were identified that contain information potentially useful for this Catalog.
Table 2 provides a summary of these databases. The most useful database identified was the National
Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) database,6 which contains a variety of test results from
approximately 5,000 different products. Although the primary test performed on these products was for
flammability as an indicator of their appropriateness for use in the space shuttle, some products were
also tested for their potential to offgas chemicals. Many of the products are specialty products,
designed and used exclusively in the aerospace industry, however, some of the products tested are
commonly used products that are routinely found In homes and office buildings. This is especially true
of the Adhesives, and Paints and Coatings categories.
There are some specific limitations to the usefulness of the NASA database. For example, the
chamber studies conducted to determine emissions were conducted under extreme conditions that
might be found in the space shuttle environment, (high temperature and low pressure) and do not
necessarily represent typical conditions in residential settings. Emissions data are not presented for
every product in the database. Emissions are reported as microgram of chemical emitted per gram of
product over a 72-hour period. Due to these conditions the data are not felt to provide representative
quantitative information on emissions. However, the NASA database does provide useful information for
determining product constituents as well as relative amounts of those constituents emitted from
products.
The Concentration of Indoor Pollutants (CIP) database,7 developed at the Lawrence Berkeley
Laboratories, contains data on concentrations of indoor pollutants measured in buildings. No effort was
made to identify which specific material sources contributed to the indoor concentrations.
xviii
-------
Table 2
Databases Identified
Database Name
Responsible Organization
Type of Data
Usefulness to Current Study
NASA Database
Lockheed Engineering and
Sciences Company
Contains test chamber information, flammability, odor and
toxicity ratings on numerous products and materials.
Database provides useful constituent
information for the adhesives and
paints/coatings material categories.
Concentration of Indoor
Air Pollutants (CIP)
Database
Lawrence Berkeley Laboratories
Contains measurements of concentrations of indoor air
pollutants and references citing measured field results.
Database is not directly useful as there is no
way of relating indoor air concentrations to
specific materials.
Building Performance
Database
Theodor Sterling Associates
Provides detailed information of studies on the performance
of office, commercial, institutional, and residential buildings.
Parameters investigated include building materials, energy
use, ventilation, lighting, acoustics, and pollutant levels.
Database is not directly useful as there is no
way of relating indoor air pollutant levels to
product emissions.
Navy Database
U.S. Department of the Navy
It is thought that this database will contain emissions
information similar to what is found in the NASA database.
It is currently under evaluation.
Data provided are from closed-chamber
headspace analyses. May be useful for
constituent information, but will provide no
emission rates.
NIOSH Database
National Institute of
Occupational Safety and Health
Contains information on the composition of products and
trade name chemicals.
Database is still under evaluation.
FIFRA and TSCA
Enforcement System
(FATES) Database
Ftadian Corporation
Database contains a variety of information pertaining to FIFRA
and TSCA including pesticide production. Relevant
information may include pesticide registration and product
reporting activities mandated by FIFFfA, and effluent
guidelines for pesticide manufacturers.
Useful information regarding pollutants in
trade name chemicals may be available.
Database is under evaluation.
Non-occupational
Pesticide Exposure Study
(NOPES)
U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency/ Atmospheric Research
and Exposure Assessment
Laboratory
Contains information on initial estimates of nonoccupational
exposure levels and the nature of the variability in exposure.
Provides useful constituent information for
many pesticide products.
Eco-Search Database
Eco-Search
Database contains information useful to chemically sensitives
including: chemicals and their effect in the home, pertinent
legislation, alternative consumer products, resources for non-
toxic living.
Database not directly useful as information it
contains is not based on technical research.
-------
The Building Performance Database,8 developed by Theodor Sterling Associates, presents field
studies conducted in facilities with known indoor air pollution. As with the CIP database, only
concentrations are presented and the database focuses more on design considerations than on
identifying the source of the emissions.
The National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) database presents fairly
comprehensive chemical constituent data for a variety of products. For instance, for latex-based
adhesives, over 700 chemical constituents are identified. This database has the potential to provide
useful information on the composition of some of the products currently being studied, as well as
formulas for trade name chemicals. However, there are some obstacles to the usefulness of this
database for the present study. The most current information in the database is from 1983. For many
product categories, formulas and manufacturing processes change, so that this information may no
longer be representative of products currently on the market. A second difficulty with using this
database for the Catalog study is that the information is subjectively classified and has some obvious
inconsistencies that make it difficult to merge with the Catalog's classification of products. Finally, much
of the data from manufacturers are confidential and therefore not accessible. Because of these
difficulties, no information from the NIOSH database is included in this report. However, this database
may provide useful information for future studies of material sources of indoor air, and the EPA is
continuing to work with NIOSH to resolve the identified problems.
The Federal Insecticide, Fungicide and Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) and Toxic Substances Control
Act (TSCA) Enforcement System (FATES) database contains a variety of information pertaining to FIFRA-
and TSCA-regulated products, including pesticides. The database provides pesticide registration and
product-reporting activities mandated by FIFRA.
The Eco-Search database was developed by a chemically sensitive individual and contains
information on chemicals and their effects in the home, organizations providing support for the
chemically sensitive, alternative consumer products, and pertinent legislation.
The Navy database is still being evaluated. From preliminary discussions with Navy personnel, it
was learned that the Navy conducts similar testing of materials to be used in submarines as NASA does
for materials to be used in the space shuttle. Most of the data are derived from headspace studies
which will provide qualitative, not quantitative data. This database proved much more difficult to access
and discussions are still underway to learn more about the potential usefulness of the reported data to
indoor air studies.
xx
-------
compare emissions data, a number of pieces of information are needed describing how the tests were
conducted. This type of information includes sampling and analytical methods, test methods, and test
conditions such as temperature, relative humidity, duration of test, and ventilation rates. Where
available, this information is included in the database, and is presented as an appendix to each set of
data tables for each product category. Each study also includes references that will allow researchers to
trace back to the original reference for more information on test methods.
Conclusions
Each product section in this Catalog has its own classification scheme that is compatible with
the initial, universal scheme, and which promotes consistent use of terminology as well as complete
coverage of all products within a product category. The Catalog tables and associated text point out a
need for the use of standardized nomenclature. In some cases, emissions data are difficult to compare
because the material tested is not clearly identified. For example, in a reference on flooring, the term
"linoleum" is used for what appears (based on constituents) to be vinyl flooring. If researchers adopt the
classification system used in this Catalog, the need for standardized nomenclature would be addressed.
The approaches used to identify and collect relevant constituent and emissions information for
building materials, fixtures and furnishings, and consumer products were successful in most product
sections Literature surveys and telephone contacts with trade associations proved useful in all product
categories. Industry studies, in which manufacturing processes were examined and retailers/wholesalers
contacted, were good sources of information for products that were not well-characterized elsewhere.
For example, there are numerous formulary references describing the constituents in most adhesives,
but no such reference was identified for wallcoverings. A variety of databases were also identified that
proved to contain useful information. As with the industry studies, these databases were most useful in
providing information for certain product sections. Information on adhesives, sealants and caulks were
often found in databases such as the NASA database, while information on carpets was rarely
presented.
Information presented in each product section provides an indication of a product's potential to
emit chemicals to the indoor air. How a product is formulated often determines its potential to emit. For
example, the polymer base used in adhesives differentiates the emission potential of that adhesive
Those adhesives formulated with large amounts of organic solvent will be more likely to emit compounds
than a nonsolvent-based adhesive. The extent to which the relative importance of each product in a
product section could be determined varied from section to section, based on the extent of constituent
and emissions data available for that product section.
xxii
-------
Emissions data presented in these sections are presented as single data points. In many cases
the data have been developed by time averaging over the duration of a particular test. It should be
noted that there is a time-dependency associated with most emission rates, with emissions from the
product generally being higher when the product is new and decreasing as the product ages. Where
available, information on the age of the product tested is provided in the appendix to each section.
There was no definitive information allowing comparison of emissions from products across the
sections. Most product sections contain information on emissions of a variety of chemicals. However,
there is no clear basis for concluding, for example, that carpeting presents more or less potential to emit
chemicals than does resilient flooring. A scheme to organize the parameters affecting a product s
potential to emit chemicals to indoor air (e.g., quantity used, chemicals emitted) would enable the use of
the Catalog to compare relative importance of products between the sections.
This Catalog represents a valuable resource for developing emission testing plans, experimental
design parameters, and protocols. For example, the Sealants and Caulks Section describes the
emission mechanisms for chemicals that are emitted, and the Insulation Section describes differences in
wet versus dry samples. In addition, some of the product categories describe how consumer use may
affect emission rate (e.g., one consumer may operate an aerosol can for 15 seconds, another for
5 seconds; one consumer may let carpet age before installing In the home, another may not). Tests
designed with these factors in mind could accommodate the differences In consumer behavior. Where
possible, the classification schemes for each product also detail the components of the product (e.g., a
carpet system can consist of face fibers, a backing, and an adhesive). Tests should be designed to
measure emissions from specific components of the product.
-------
REFERENCES
1. Spaite, P.W., et al. Classification of Materials as Potential Sources of Indoor Air Pollution.
EPA-600/8-90-074. (NTIS PB91-125708). U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Air and Energy
Engineering Research Laboratory, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 1990.
2. 1987 Census of Manufactures. Industry Series - U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the
Census, Washington, D.C.
3. Klrk-Othmer. Concise Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. John Wiley and Sons, New York,
New York, 1985.
4. ¦ Radian Corporation. Industrial Organic Chemical Use Trees. October, 1983,
5. Industrial Process Profiles for Environmental Use: Chapter 1. Introduction. EPA-600/2-77-023a
(NTIS PB266274). U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Office of Research and Development,
Research Triangle Park, North Carolina, 1977.
6. NASA Materials Testing Database, Version 3.0. MDAC Houston Software Technology
Development Laboratory, April 1986.
7. Apte, M.G., et al. Concentrations of Indoor Pollutants (CIP) Database Users Manual
(Version 4.0). Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, Indoor Environment Program, October, 1990.
8. Steeves, J.F., et al. Building Performance Database User's Guide. Theodor Sterling Limited,
1984.
xx iv
V.
-------
1.0
1.1
INSULATION PRODUCTS
Description of Product Category
Insulations, as defined in this Catalog, include all thermal insulation material in roll, foam,
looselay, panel, and blown fiber form that is used in homes and office buildings. This definition does not
include insulations that are no longer available on the market, such as urea-formaldehyde foam and
asbestos, or the adhesive materials that are purchased separately and used during installation.
1.1.1 Product Classification
In this Catalog, insulation products are classified into three categories, based on materials
content and product form: fibrous, foam, and reflective (Figure 1-1).
Fibrous Insulations
Fibrous insulations are divided into two main groups: man-made vitreous fiber (MMVF)
insulations and natural fiber insulations. Fibrous insulations are made up of discontinuous or entangled
(wool) fibers held together with a binder.
Man-made vitreous fiber (MMVF) insulations include glass wool, rock wool, and slag wool
insulations.1 The chief oxide ingredient of MMVF insulations is silica (Si02), which is in a glassy or
vitreous state.1 Historically, MMVF insulations have been placed under the broad classification of man-
made mineral fibers (MMMF). However, TIMA Inc. (TIMA Inc. is a not-for-profit association of firms
engaged in the manufacture, and sale, within North America, of insulation, acoustical ceiling tiles, and
other products containing man-made vitreous fibers) points out in its publication 'The Nomenclature of
Man-Made Vitreous Fibers" that these materials are not minerals and should not be placed in the same
category as the "true" mineral fiber insulations such as asbestos. Therefore, these insulations are placed
under the classification MMVF.
MMVF insulations are subdivided into the following product forms: preformed mats (batts,
blankets and rolls), loose fibers, and rigid panels. The terms batts, blankets, and rolls generally refer to
the length of a strip of MMVF insulation. Batts are generally 4 feet long or less, blankets are 8 feet long,
and rolls can be as long as 50 to 100 feet. Batts, blankets, and rolls come in a variety of thicknesses
and widths, and can be sold plain, with a paper, plastic, or foil backing, or completely sealed in a paper
"envelope." Loose fiber insulation, also called loose-fill, is made up of loose fibers which are installed by
pouring from bags or by blowing into place with compressed air.2
1-1
-------
I. FIBROUS
A.
Man-made vitreous fibers
1. Batts, blankets, rolls
a. glass wool (fiberglass)
b. slag and rock wool
2. Loose fibers
a. glass wool (fiberglass)
b. slag and rock wool
3. Rigid
a. glass wool (fiberglass)
b. slag and rock wool
B.
Natural fibers
1. Cellulose
2. Mineral
II. FOAM
A.
Rigid
1. Polystyrene
2. Polyurethane and polyisocyanurate
3. Phenolic-based foams
B.
Foamed-in-place
1. Polyurethane
2. Polyisocyanurate
3. Urea-based foams
C.
Elastomeric (foam rubber)
III. REFLECTIVE
Figure 1-1. Classification of Insulation Products by Material and Product Form
1-2
-------
Each of the MMVF product form categories are further subdivided into glass wool insulation and
slag and rock wool insulation. Glass wool insulation (a.k.a. fiberglass) is so called because it is
approximately 55 to 70 percent silica.1 Glass wool is produced using the rotary process. In this
production process, the molten glass is placed into a "rotating spinner, which is a metal bowl with
perforated sidewalls, and is extruded through the sidewall holes into, many small streams."1 The
resulting fibers have an average diameter of 3 to 10 /im and a length of greater than 250 ^m. "Fiber
diameter and length are two of the most important properties of insulation glass fiber wool."1 The fibers
are either left loose or a binder is added to create mats or boards.
Slag wool gets its name from the iron ore blast furnace slag which makes up 70 to 90 percent
(by weight) of the slag wool raw materials.1 Rock wool gets its name from the basaltic rock which is the
primary raw material used in its manufacture. Slag wool and rock wool are manufactured using either
the wheel centrifuge process or the Downey process. In the wheel centrifuge process the molten
material is poured onto a series of spinning wheels and is then thrown off by centrifugal force. An air
stream carries the fibers away from the wheels to a collecting chamber where the fibers are left loose or
formed into a mat or board.1 In the Downey process the molten material is placed on a single spinning
dish-shaped wheel. Centrifugal force carries the molten material off the wheel and air jets pull the
molten streams into fibers. Again, if mats or boards are being made, a binder is added to the fibers after
they are formed.1
Natural fiber insulations include cellulose and mineral insulations. Cellulose insulations are made
up of wood or paper fibers and usually are used in the form of loose fibers. Cellulose insulations are
usually installed by the blowing technique. The mineral insulation category includes asbestos. However,
since asbestos is no longer used in homes and office buildings, it is not covered in this document.
Foam Insulations
Foam insulations are grouped into three categories: rigid, foamed-in-place, and elastomeric
Rigid foams are plastic substances that are expanded into foam by mixing with air, carbon dioxide, or
other gaseous media and are then molded into rigid boards.3 There are three major types of rigid
foams: polystyrene, polyurethane and polyisocyanurate, and phenolic-based.
Foamed-in-place insulations are also plastic substances. During installation of foamed-in-place
insulations, foaming and hardening agents are combined and forced under air pressure into voids or
cavities in wall or roof construction, or are sprayed over exposed wall or roof surfaces.3 There are also
three major types of foamed-in-place Insulations: polyurethane, polyisocyanurate, and urea-based
foams.
1-3
-------
Elastomeric foams are flexible foam insulations such as foam rubber.
Reflective Insulations
Reflective insulations are made from aluminum or copper foil and have a paper backing. These
insulations reflect heat off their bright surfaces and to be effective as thermal insulation require an air
space of at least 3/4 of an inch adjacent to the reflective surface.3
1.1.2 Product Major Uses
Table 1-1 presents the common uses and locations of insulation products. Man-made vitreous
fiber batts, blankets, and rolls are used in ducts, air conditioners, wails, ceilings, between floors, and in
attics as thermal and/or acoustic insulation. Loose fiber insulations (both MMVF and cellulose) are
mainly used in horizontal applications, such as attics, because they have a tendency to settle and create
"cold spots," or uninsulated areas, at the tops of walls. An exception to this is retrofitting applications,
where loose fiber insulations are blown into cavities that were previously uninsulated. To be most
effective, all of the fibrous insulations must be kept dry and uncompacted 4
Rigid foam insulation is used in roofs, exterior nonstructural sheathing for framed construction,
masonry walls, and foundations 3 Foanned-in-place foam insulation is mainly used in wall, floor, and roof
assemblies. It is also excellent for retrofit applications, where it is pressure-injected into existing walls 3
Elastomeric foam, or foam rubber, is commonly used to insulate pipes because of its excellent flexibility.
Reflective insulations serve as thermal insulators, and are often laminated to batts or blankets of fibrous
insulation or to gypsum wallboard to serve as a vapor barrier.
1.1.3 Sales and Production
Table 1-2 presents information on the value of insulation product shipments for 1987. Not
enough data are available to make comparisons on the basis of usage amounts. However, the dollar
value of shipments can give a rough estimate of relative usage amounts. Man-made vitreous fiber
insulation has the highest dollar value of shipments. Of the products reported under MMVF, batts and
blankets make up over 50% of the total shipment value. Foam Insulations are also widely used with a
total value of shipments of $690.4 million. Unfortunately, no breakdowns of foam insulation shipment
1-4
-------
Table 1-1a
Common Uses and Locations For Insulation Products
Product
Use
Location
Thermal
Acoustic
Other
Walls
Ceilings
Floors
Attic
Roof
Other
FIBROUS
Man-made vitreous Fiber
Batts, blankets, and rolls
Xb
X
X
X
X
X
Duct liner, air conditioners
Loose fibers
X
Rc
X
X
Natural fiber
Cellulose
X
R
X
X
FOAM
Rigid
X
X
-
X
X
X
Exterior sheathing, foundations
Foamed-in-place
X
X
X
X
X
X
Retrofit applications
Elastomeric
X
Pipes, weather stripping
REFLECTIVE
X
Vapor
barrier
X
X
X
X
X
Rafters
aReferences 4,5,6,7,8,9.
^Indicates a common use or location
cUsed mainly in retrofit applications
-------
Table 1-2a
Value of Insulation Product Shipments for 1987
Insulation Category
$ Value of 1987
Shipments (In Millions)
SiCb
Fibrous Insulation
MMVF
2,066.2
3296
MMVF - Batts and blankets
1,119 2°
32961-31,35,38
MMVF - Loose fibers
95.5
32961-11
MMVF - Rigid
718.0
32961-51,61
MMVF - Other
133.5
32961 -98
Cellulose
58.4
26795-31
Foam Insulation, Including Pipe and Block
690.4
30863-10
All Reflective Insulations
NAd
NA
aReference 5.
''SIC = Standard Industrial Code.
cQnly for -38.
^NA = Not availaDle.
dollar values are available. Cellulose insulation makes up a minor part of the insulation market.
Cellulose insulation sales declined from $96 million in 1982 to $58.4 million in 1987.
1.2 Major Constituents of Concern
The data tables at the end of this document summarize the constituent information that was
identified. Information on insulation product constituents was obtained from a variety of sources.
Information on the binders used in insulations was found in the TIMA document and an adhesives
text.1,10 General information on insulation constituents was obtained from the 1989 Annual Books of the
American Society for Testing and Materials, indoor air studies, the TIMA document, and phone
conversations with associations and manufacturers.1,2,7,10,12-37 Detailed information on the constituents
of glass wool fibers and polyurethane foam was identified in the Kirk-Othmer Encyclopedia of Chemical
Technology.1531
1-6
-------
1.2.1 Fibrous I nsulation
Fibers of fibrous insulations contain many inert materials such as sand, clay, limestone,
dolomite, basalt, soda ash, borax, scrap glass, and iron ore blast furnace slag. From an indoor air
perspective, these inert materials are of little concern. Of more concern are the binders which hold
these inert fibers together. In glass wool the fibers are held together with a binder based mainly on
phenol formaldehyde resins. This binder can make up to 25 percent of the product by weight.
However, TIMA Inc. elaborates that, "during the curing process, the binder is converted into an insoluble
polymer containing no significant amounts of formaldehyde."1 Rock and slag wool fibers are bound
together exclusively with phenolic resin, which makes up approximately 10 percent of the product by
weight.1 In addition to the primary raw materials and binders, fibrous insulations may also contain,
lubricants (such as, mineral oil, and polypropylene glycol), wetting agents, antistatic agents, and
extruders and stabilizers.1
The constituent information that was identified for cellulose insulations is more limited. Cellulose
insulations contain paper or wood fibers that are bound together by acrylic adhesives.10 Cellulose
insulation is treated with boric acid as a fire retardant.38
1.2.2 Foam Insulation
Urea-formaldehyde foam dominated the literature on foam insulation. However, since this
product has been removed from the North American market, it will not be covered here. A lot of
constituent information was also identified on polyurethane foam insulation. Very little information was
found on phenolic, polystyrene, elastomeric, and urea-based foams.
1.2.3 Reflective Insulation
Reflective insulations consist of foil and an optional paper backing. Reflective insulations do not
appear to have any major constituents that are of concern from an indoor air perspective.
1.3 Emissions Information
The data tables at the end of this document summarize all the emissions data that were
identified. Urea-formaldehyde foam and glass wool insulations were found to be the most widely tested
insutation materials. In almost all of the emissions studies, the measurement of formaldehyde emissions
was the major emphasis.
1-7
-------
1.3.1 Fibrous Insulation
A variety of emission test methods have been applied to glass wool batt, blanket, and roll
insulation products, including chamber studies, headspace analyses, formaldehyde surface emission
monitor (FSEM) testing, and desiccator analysis. In chamber studies, formaldehyde emissions from
unfaced glass wool insulation ranged from 0.009 to 0.13 mg/m2-hour.15,39"41 Generally, the higher the
temperature and humidity, the higher the formaldehyde emissions. Unquantified amounts of
formaldehyde were also identified in a chamber study on duct board and duct liner glass wool
insulation.17
In another study, measurements of formaldehyde were taken from faced and unfaced glass wool
batt insulation using an FSEM.39 Formaldehyde emission rates from these products ranged from
0.011 to 0.038 mg/m2-hour.39 This study showed that as conditioning periods (i.e., age of product)
increase, formaldehyde emissions decrease, and as temperature and humidity increase, formaldehyde
emissions increase. It should be noted that, because measurements from the faced insulations were
taken only from the unfaced side, the faced and unfaced glass wool formaldehyde emission rates were
at similar levels. Preliminary formaldehyde emission measurements from the faced side of the insulation
were reported to be equal to background levels.39
Formaldehyde emissions from glass wool insulation have also been measured by desiccator
procedures.42 In this study, formaldehyde emission rates from batts and ceiling panels ranged from
0.002 to 0.026 mg/m2-hour, at room temperature and high humidity.
In addition to formaldehyde emissions, toluene, acetone, methylene chloride, hexane and other
compounds were detected in emissions from glass wool duct liner.41 In a headspace experiment, it was
found that glass wool with a plastic backing had emission rates that were half those of glass wool with
an aluminum foil backing.7
In a chamber study performed by Lars Molhave and a desiccator study performed by van der
Wal emissions were measured from "mineral wool."43,44 It is unclear whether this insulation material is
glass wool, slag wool, rock wool, or a "true" mineral insulation such as asbestos. Because of the lack of
clarity, the material used in these tests is assumed to be a general fibrous insulation material. (Although
in the data sheets at the end of this document the original term "mineral wool' is retained.)
Fibrous insulation has a total volatile organic compound (TVOC) emission rate of 0.012
mg/m2-hour, as measured by Molhave in a chamber study.43 In a desiccator study by van der Wal, 18
1-8
-------
chemicals were detected in emissions from moistened fibrous Insulation.44 This same researcher found
that,
"The moistened samples of mineral wool (fibrous insulation) emitted aliphatic and aromatic
aldehydes and higher ketones at 50°C in quantities about a hundredfold of those emitted from
dry samples at 50°C."44
It is speculated that the elevated temperature and moisture accelerates the decomposition of the binder
material that holds the insulating fibers together.44 In addition to the emission of organics, another
indoor air concern regarding fibrous insulations is the release of fibers into the air. Approximately
1 to 2% of the insulation material has the potential to become airborne during handling.12
No emission studies were identified for loose and rigid fiberglass and rock and slag wool
insulations, or for cellulose fibrous insulations.
1.3.2 Foam Insulation
Total VOC emissions from polystyrene foam insulation were measured at a rate of
1.4 mg/m2-hour by Molhave in a chamber study performed at average room conditions.43 Fifteen
compounds were identified in polystyrene emissions using headspace and chamber study test
methods.7 Total VOC emissions from polyurethane foam insulation were measured at a rate of
0.12 mg/m2-hour by Molhave in a chamber study performed at room temperature and humidity*3
No emissions data were identified for polyisocyanurate, phenolic, urea-based, or elastomeric
foam insulation products.
1.3.3 Reflective Insulation
Attention on reflective insulations has not focused on emissions from the insulation material
itself, but rather on how it blocks emissions from other sources. These reflective Insulations, as well as
the plastic and foil backings on other insulations, act as vapor barriers, reducing the migration of
emissions from other building materials.
1.4 Data Tables
The following data tables summarize information identified in the literature relating to the
insulation product category. Only VOCs are presented in these data tables; components such as
1-9
-------
nonvolatile inert ingredients, fillers, and inorganics that may be constituents of a product are not
included. Each VOC is identified as a constituent or an emission. In many cases, compounds were
identified in the literature as constituents, but had not specifically been identified through emissions
testing. In addition, a few compounds were identified as being emitted from a product, but not listed as
a constituent. In these cases, emissions may be the result of a chemical reaction within the product.
Emission rates are presented for those compounds that were identified in the literature as being
emitted. These rates are presented as ranges where multiple emission rates were identified.
Chemicals that are hazardous air pollutants (as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended in
November, 1990), carcinogens, or which have a threshold limit value established are designated by an
"H", "C", or "T", respectively, in the column following the chemical.
Full reference citations for all information presented in the tables are included at the end of the
section. The appendix at the end of this section presents additional information, where available,
concerning test conditions for literature cited.
1-10
-------
ORGANIZATION OF DATA TABLES
FIBROUS INSULATION
Man-Made Vitreous Fibers
Glass wool (Unspecified) 1-12
Mineral wool (Unspecified) 1-13
Batts, Blankets, Rolls -- Glass wool 1-14
Batts, Blankets, Rolls -- Mineral wool 1-16
Rigid--Glass wool 1-17
FOAM INSULATION
Foam (Unspecified) ; 1 -18
Polyurethane (Unspecified) 1-19
Foamed-in-Piace--Polyurethane 1-20
Rigid -- Phenolic 1-21
Rigid - Polystyrene 1-22
Rigid--Polyurethane 1-23
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES 1-25
1-11
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Insulation
Chapter Fibrous-Man-Made Product Glass Wool (Fiberglass)
Vitreous Fibers
SIC 3296
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
2-Methylpentanol
NQ
44
2-Methylpropanol
NQ
44
3-Methylpentanol
NQ
44
Benzaldehyde
100-52-7
NQ
44
Dimethylhydroxylbenzaldehyde
NQ
44
Formaldehyde
C.H.T
50-00-0
14
2
26
ug/m2-hr
17,40
Hydroxylbenzaldehyde
123-08-0
NQ
44
i-Butanol
H.T
78-92-2
•
NQ
44
Methylhydroxylbenzaldehyde
NQ
44
n-Heptanol
111-70-6
NQ
44
n-Hexanol
111-27-3
NQ
44
SUBPRODUCT: Binder
Phenol-Formaldehyde Resin
X
18
Resole Resins-Phenol Based
X
11
Urea
57-13-6
X
18
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Insulation
Chapter Fibrous-Man-Made Product Mineral Wool
Vitreous Fibers
SIC 3296
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min.
Max
Units
2-Heptanone
T
110-43-0
NQ
44
2-Hexanone
T
591-78-6
NQ
44
2-Methylpentanol
NQ
44
2-Methylpropanol
NQ
44
2-Pentanone
T
107-87-9
NQ
44
3-Hexanone
589-38-8
NQ
44
3-Methylpentanol
NQ
44
3-Pentanone
T
96-22-0
NQ
44
Benzaldehyde
100-52-7
NQ
44
Dimethylhydroxylbenzaldehyde
NQ
44
Hydroxybenzaldehyde
90-02-8
NQ
44
i-Butanol
H,T
78-92-2
NQ
44
Methylhydroxylbenzaldehyde
NQ
44
n-Decanol
NQ
44
n-Heptanol
111-70-6
NQ
44
n-Hexanol
111-27-3
NQ
44
n-Nonanol
143-08-8
NQ
44
n-Octanol
111-87-5
NQ
44
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
12
ug/m2-hr
43
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Insulation
Chapter Fibrous-Man-Made Product Glass Wool-Batts, Blankets, Rolls
Vitreous Fibers
SIC
Usage/Sales
3296
ND
SIC
Usage/Sales
32961-00
2.99E+09 pounds
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max
Units
Ref
SUBPRODUCT: Aluminum foil-backed
1,2,3-Trimethylbenzene
95-63-6
0.04
ug/m2-hr
8
1,2,4-Trimethylbenzene
95-63-6
0.08
ug/m2-hr
8
Aliphatic and Oxygenated
Hydrocarbons
0.13
ug/m2-hr
8
Aromatic Hydrocarbons
0.15
ug/m2-hr
8
m-Ethyltoluene
0.03
ug/m2-hr
8
n-Undecane
1120-21-4
0.13
ug/m2-hr
8
SUBPRODUCT: Plastic-backed
1,2,3-Trimethylbenzene
95-63-6
0.03
ug/m2-hr
8
1,2,4-Trimethylbenzene
95-63-6
0.03
ug/m2-hr
8
Aromatic Hydrocarbons
0.08
ug/m2-hr
8
m,p-Xylene
0.02
ug/m2-hr
8
SUBPRODUCT: Faced
Formaldehyde
C.H.T
50-00-0
30
12
58
ug/m2-hr
39
SUBPRODUCT: Unfaced
Formaldehyde
C,H,T
50-00-0
29
6
93
ug/m2-hr
39
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Insulation
Chapter Fibrous-Man-Made Product Glass Wool-Batts, Blankets, Rolls
Vitreous Fibers
SIC 3296 SIC 32961-00
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales 2.99E+09 pounds
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Formaldehyde
C.H.T
50-00-0
47.5
8
130
ug/m2-hr
39,40,42
Acrylic Adhesives
X
11
Phenolic Adhesive
X
11
SUBPRODUCT: Duct liner
2-Butoxyethanol
T
111-76-2
NQ
41
2-Methylnaphthalene
91-57-6
NQ
41
Acetone
T
67-64-1
NQ
41
Benzene
C.H.T
71 -43-2
NQ
41
Formaldehyde
C.H.T
50-00-0
NQ
17
Hexane
H.T
110-54-3
NQ
41
Methylcyclohexane
T
108-87-2
NQ
41
Methylene Chloride
C.H.T
75-09-2
NQ
41
Piperdine
NQ
41
Propyl Acetate
T
109-60-4
NQ
41
Propylbenzene
103-65-1
NQ
41
Pyrrolidine
123-75-1
NQ
41
p-Dichlorobenzene
106-46-7
NQ
41
Tetrachloroethane
H.T
79-34-5
NQ
41
Toluene
H.T
108-88-3
NQ
41 |
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T • Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Insulation
Chapter Fibrous-Man-Made Product Mineral Wool-Batts, Blankets, Rolls
Vitreous Fibers
SIC 32961 SIC 3296
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Acrylic Adhesives
X
11
Melamine-Formaldehyde Resin
(binder)
X
15
Phenol-Formaldehyde Resin (binder)
X
15
Urea-Formaldehyde Resin (binder)
X
15
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Insulation
Chapter Fibrous-Man-Made Product Glass Wool-Rigid
Vitreous Fibers
SIC 3296
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max Units
Ref
SUBPRODUCT: Ceiling panel
Formaldehyde
C.H.T
50-00-0
19.4
16.3
22.5 ug/m2-hr
40
SUBPRODUCT: Duct board
Formaldehyde
C.H.T
50-00-0
NQ
17
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Insulation
Chapter Foam Product NP
SIC 30863
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Acrylic Adhesives
X
11
Pentane
T
109-66-0
X
11
p-Toluenesulfonic Acid
104-15-4
X
11
Trichlorotrifluoroethane
T
76-13-1
X
11
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NP - No product.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Insulation
Chapter Foam Product Polyurethane
SIC 30863
Usage/Sales $9.407E+08 Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
CFC-11
X
12
Fluorocarbon Gas
X
10
Polyhydroxy Compounds
X
10
Polyisocyanate Compound
X
10
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
120
ug/m2-hr
43
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Insulation
Chapter Foam-Foamed Product Polyurethane
in Place
SIC 30863
Usage/Sales $9.407E+08 Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Polyester Resin
X
2
Polyisocyanate Resin
X
2
T richlorof luoromethane
T
75-69-4
X
2
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Insulation
Chapter
Foam-Rigid
Product
Phenolic
SIC
Usage/Sales
30863
ND
Usage/Sales
ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max
Units
Ref
Phenolic Resin
X
10
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Insulation
Chapter Foam-Rigid Product Polystyrene
SIC 30863
Usage/Sales $9.407E+08 Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
1,2,3-Trimethylbenzene
95-63-6
0.08
0.03
0.12
ug/m2-hr
8
1,2,4-Trimethylbenzene
95-63-6
0.31
0.17
0.44
ug/m2-hr
8
1,3,5-Trimethylbenzene
108-67-8
0.09
0.08
0.1
ug/m2-hr
8
Chlorobenzene
H.T
108-90-7
0.42
0.38
0.46
ug/m2-hr
8
Ethylbenzene
H.T
100-41-4
12.5
10
15
ug/m2-hr
8
Isopropylbenzene
T
98-82-8
1.55
1.4
1.7
ug/m2-hr
8
m,p-Xylene
1.6
1.5
1.7
ug/m2-hr
8
m-Ethyltoluene
0.59
0.44
0.73
ug/m2-hr
8
n-Propylbenzene
103-65-1
0.78
0.7
0.86
ug/m2-hr
8
n-Undecane
1120-21 -4
0.19
ug/m2-hr
8
o-Dichlorobenzene
T
95-50-1
0.19
0.17
0.2
ug/m2-hr
8
o-Ethyltoluene
611-14-3
0.09
0.07
0.1
ug/m2-hr
8
o-Xylene
H,T
95-47-6
0.36
0.33
0.39
ug/m2-hr
8
p-Dichlorobenzene
106-46-7
0.59
0.47
0.71
ug/m2-hr
8
Polymerized Styrene Resin
X
10
Styrene
H.T
100-42-5
5.55
4.9
6.2
ug/m2-hr
8
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
1400
ug/m2-hr
43
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Insulation
Chapter Foam-Rigid Product Polyurethane
SIC 30863
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
i
N>
CO
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Mln
Max
Units
1,1,1 -T rimethy lolpropane
X
16
1,2,6-Hexanetriol
106-69-4
X
16
1,3-Butylene Glycol
107-88-0
X
16
1,4-Butylene Glycol
110-63-4
X
16
Adipic Acid
124-04-9
X
16
alpha-Methyl Styrene
T
98-83-9
X
31
Diethylene Glycol
111-46-6
X
16
Diphenylmethane Diisocyanate
T
101-68-8
X
31
Ethylene Glycol
H,T
107-21-1
X
16
Fluorotrichloromethane
T
75-69-4
X
31
Glycerol
56-81-5
X
16
Mannitol
69-65-8
X
16
n-Ethylmorpholine
T
100-74-3
X
16
Pentaerythritol
115-77-5
X
16
Phosphate Ester-Based,
Flame-Retardant
X
31
Phthalic Anhydride
H,T
85-44-9
X
16
Polyether Triol, 3000 mol. wt.
X
16
IjPolyhydroxy Compounds
X
31
(Continued)
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Insulation
Chapter Foam-Rigid Product Polyurethane
SIC 30863
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
(Continued)
Propylene Glycol
57-55-6
X
16
Silicon Oil Copolymer
X
31
Silicone Copolymer L-520
X
16
Sorbitol
50-70-4
X
16
Stannous Oleate
T
1912-84-1
X
16
Toluene Diisocyanate (TDI)
H.T
584-84-9
X
16
Trichlorofluoromethane
T
75-69-4
X
16
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
-------
Insulation
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES
8
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Sheldon, et. al., 1988
Chamber Study
Tenax Tubes
Value
Min 1 Max Units I
RH
48
%
Temp
25
°C .
ACH
0.5
[Testing Duration
8
Comment:
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Sheldon, et. al., 1988
Headspace
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
0
48
%
Temp
25
34
°C
ACH
0.5
11
Testing Duration
Comment:
17 Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Miele, 1989
Chamber Study
NIOSH
Value
Min
Max Units
RH
10
50 %
Temp
25
43
°C i
lACH i 0.5
iTesting Duration 1
hr
Comment:
1-25
-------
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES
(Continued)
39
39
40
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Matthews and Westley, 1987
Formaldehyde Surface Emission Monitor
i
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
%
Temp
°C
ACH
Testinq Duration
3
hr
Comment: R-11 foil faced fiberglass;
0-10 day conditioning period.
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Matthews and Westley, 1987
Chamber Study
|
Value
Min
Max j
Units I
RH
50
68
%
Temp
23
38!
°C
ACH
Testing Duration
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Pickrell, et. a!., 1984
JIS Dessicator Procedure
JIS Dessicator Procedure
Modified Pararosaniline Method
I Value
Min
Max
Units !
RH
100
j
%
Temp
°C
ACH
Testinq Duration
24 i
hr
Comment:
1-26
-------
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES
(Continued)
40
41
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Analysis Method:
Pickrell, et. al., 1984
Chamber Study
Value
Min
Max
Units |
RH
90
%
Temp
25
°C
ACH
j
i Testinq Duration
!
Comment:
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Analysis Method:
Bayer and Black, 1988
Chamber Study
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
45
55
%
Temp
33
27
°C
ACH
2.2
i
Testinq Duration
|
Comment:
41 Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Bayer and Black, 1988
Headspace
1 Value
Min
Max
Units
RH i
Jemp 26.7
°C
ACH
:
Testing Duration 1
hr
Comment:
1-27
-------
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES
(Continued)
42
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Pickrell, et. al., 1983
Standard Dessicator
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
90
%
Temp
24
°C
ACH
Testing Duration
I
Comment:
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Analysis Method:
Molhave, 1982
Chamber Study
GC/MS
i Value
Min
Max
Units I
RH !
35
40
% !
Temp
21.1
°C
ACH
1
Testing Duration I
43
Comment:
44 Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
van der Wal, 1987
Dessicator
Value
Min
Max ! Units
RH
' %
Temp
50
: °C
ACH
'
Testing Duration
i
Comment:
Moist mineral wool.
1-28
-------
REFERENCES
1. TIMA Inc. Nomenclature of Man-Made Vitreous Fibers. April 15, 1991. 72 pp.
2. Smith, R.C. and C.K. Andres. Materials of Construction. McGraw-Hill Book Co., Atlanta,
Georgia. 1988.
3. Sweet's Catalog File: Products for General Building and Renovation. McGraw-Hill Information
Systems Company, New York, New York. 1987.
4. Telephone Conversation. Chris Sarsony of Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with John Hart of Monsanto. 18 July 1991.
5. 1987 Census of Manufactures. Industry Series. U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the
Census, Washington, DC.
6. Technical data sheet, Carpenter Insulation Company.
7. Owens-Corning Fiberglas. A Homeowner's Guide to Insulation and Energy Savings. 1990.
8. Sheldon, L. et al. Indoor Air Quality in Public Buildings. Vol II, EPA/600/6-88/009b.
(NTIS PB89-102511). 1988.
9. Guardian Fiberglass. Residential/Commercial Insulation for Thermal and Sound Control.
Guardian Fiberglass Inc. Publication. 1990.
10. American Society for Testing and Materials. 1989 Annual Books of ASTM Standards,
Volume 04.06 - Thermal Insulation; Environmental Acoustics. 1989.
11. Skeist, I. Handbook of Adhesives (3rd Ed.), van Nostrand Reinhold, New York. 1990.
12. Shankland, I.R. CFC Alternatives for Thermal Insulation Foams. International Institute of
Refrigeration, Vol. 13, No. 2. March 1990.
13. Jaffrey, T. Levels of Airborne Man-Made Mineral Fibers in U.K. Dwellings I - Fiber Levels During
and After Installation of Insulation. Atmos. Environ. 24A(1). 1990.
14. Levin, H. Building Materials and Indoor Air Quality. Occupational Medicine: State of the Art
Reviews, 4(4). October - December 1989.
15. van der Wal, J.F. et al. Measurements of Organic Compound Emissions from Consumer
Products in a Walk-In Test Chamber. Proceedings of the 5th International Conference on Indoor
Air Duality and Climate, Vol. 3. 1990.
16. Kirk-Othmer. Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. (2nd Edition), Volume 21. John Wiley and
Sons, Inc., New York, New York. 1970.
17. Mlele, P.F. Formaldehyde Emissions from Bonded Fiberglass Insulation Products. American
Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc., California. 1989.
18. Wool Fiberglass Insulation Manufacturing Industry - Background Information for Proposed
Standards. EPA450-3-83-022a, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park,
North Carolina. 1983.
1-29
-------
REFERENCES (Continued)
19. Telephone conversation. Chris Sarsony of Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with Corporate Communications Services, Owens-Corning Fiberglas. 11 July 1991.
20. Telephone conversation. Chris Sarsony of Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with John Lackey of Standard Insulation Co. of North Carolina, Inc. 12 July 1991.
21. Telephone Conversation. Chris Sarsony of Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with Warehouse Manager of Triangle Materials. 12 July 1991.
22. Telephone Conversation. Chris Sarsony of Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with Mary Williamson of Carolina Atlantic Distributors. 12 July 1991.
23. Telephone conversation. Chris Sarsony of Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with Mlchele Price of Healthy Buildings International. 1 July 1991.
24. Owens-Corning Fiberglas. Glass Fibers: The Basics. 1988
25. Owens-Corning Fiberglas. The Facts about Fiberglass and Health. 1988.
26. Telephone conversation. Chris Sarsony of Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with Dan Evenson of Fi-Foil, Inc., 8 October 1992.
27. Telephone conversation. Chris Sarsony of Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with Warehouse Manager of Triangle Materials, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.
2 July 1991.
28. Telephone Conversation. Chris Sarsony of Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with Nancy Scofield of Denny Products. 8 October 1992.
29. Telephone Conversation. Chris Sarsony of Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with Don Edge of Blown Rite Insulation. 18 July 1991.
30. Telephone Conversation. Chris Sarsony of Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with John Hart of Fome-Cor - Monsanto. 18 July 1991.
31. Reisdorf, R.P. et al. An Industrial Hygiene Study of Polyurethane Foam Insulation Manufacturing
at CPR, Upjohn Company, Torrance, California. Enviro Control, Inc., Washington, D.C. 1980.
32. Kirk-Othmer. Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology. (2nd Edition), Volume 11. John Wiley and
Sons, Inc., New York, New York. 1970.
33. Cowan. Henry J. and Peter R. Smith. The Science and Technology of Building Materials
van Nostrand Reinhold Company, New York, New York. 1988.
34. Tye, R.P. et al. An Assessment of Thermal Insulation Materials for Building Applications
American Society for Testing and Materials, Pennsylvania. 1980.
35. Govan, F.A. et al. - editors. Thermal Insulation Materials and Systems for Energy Conservation
in the 80's. American Society for Testing and Materials, Pennsylvania. 1983.
36. McElroy, D.L. and J.F. Kimpfler - editors. Insulation Materials Testing and Applications.
American Society for Testing and Materials, Pennsylvania. 1990.
1-30
-------
REFERENCES (Continued)
37. Austin, George T. Shreves Chemical Process Industries. (5th Ed.) McGraw-Hill Book Company,
New York, New York. 1984.
38. Godish, Thad. indoor Air Pollution Control. Lewis Publishers, Inc., Chelsea, Michigan. 1989.
39. Matthews, Thomas G. and Rita R. Westley. Formaldehyde Emissions from Selected Fibrous
Glass Insulation Products. American Society for Testing and Materials. 1987.
40. Pickrell, J.A., et al. Environ. Sci. Technol, Vol 18. 1984.
41. Bayer, Charlene, W., and Marilyn S. Black, Comparison of Collection Methods for VOC
Consumer Product Emissions Using Environmental Chamber/Gas Chromatographic -
Mass Spec. Techniques. 1988.
42. Pickrell, John A., et al. Formaldehyde Release Rate Coefficients from Selected Consumer
Products. Environ. Sci. Technol., 17:12. 1983.
43. Molhave, Lars. Indoor Air Pollution Due to Organic Gases and Vapours of Solvents in Building
Materials. Environ. Int., Vol. 8. 1982.
44. van der Wal, et al. Thermal Insulation as a Source of Air Pollution. TNO Division of Technology
for Society, Delft, The Netherlands. 1987.
1-31
-------
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Baechler, M.C., D.L. HadSey, T.J. Marseille. Indoor Air Quality Issues Related to the Acquisition of
Conservation In Commercial Buildings. Prepared for the Bonneville Power Administration by the
Pacific Northwest Laboratory under a Related Services Agreement with the U.S. Department of
Energy, Contract DE-AC06-76RLO 1830. September 1990.
Engstrom, Kerstin. Building Materials; A Source of Indoor Air Pollution, Proceedings of the
5th International Conference on Indoor Air Quality and Climate. 1990.
Gesser, H.D. The Reduction of Indoor Formaldehyde Gas and that Emanating from Urea-Formaldehyde
Foam insulation. Environ. Int., Volume 10. 1984.
Howthorne, A.R., Matthews, T.G., and Gammage, R.B. Characterization and Mitigation of Organic
Vapors. Oak Ridge National Laboratory, Oak Ridge, Tennessee. 1985.
Krzymien, M.E. GC-MS Analysis of Organic Vapours Emitted from Polyurethane Foam Insulation. Int. J.
Environ. Anal. Chem., Vol. 36. 1989.
Molhave, Lars. Indoor Air Pollution due to Organic Gases and Vapours of Solvents in Building Materials.
Environ. Int., Vol. 8. 1982
Sardinas, Anthony V. et al. Health Effects Associated with Urea-Formaldehyde Foam Insulation in
Connecticut. J. Environ. Health, Vo!. 41, No. 5. 1979.
Wallace, Lance A. et a!. Emissions of Volatile Organic compounds from Building Materials and
Consumer Products. Atmos. Environ. Vol. 21, No. 2, 1987.
Weintrub, Leah N., et al. Reassessment of Formaldehyde Exposure in Homes Insulated with Urea-
Formaldehyde Foam Insulation. Appl. Ind. Hygiene, Volume 4, No. 6.
1-32
-------
2.0 WALLCOVERING
2.1 Description of Product Category
Wallcoverings, as defined here, include materials applied to an exposed surface of a wall for
aesthetic and/or functional (i.e., moisture protection) purposes rather than for structural purposes The
category includes wallpaper as well as several other wallcovering products such as ceramic and plastic
tiles. To avoid overlap with the wood products category, which will be published in Volume II, wood-
based paneling products are not included in the wallcoverings category. Wood-based paneling products
are shown in Figure 2-1 only to illustrate how they relate to other wallcoverings. Complete information
on these wood-based paneling products will be presented in the Wood Products Section in Volume II of
this Catalog.
Also not included in the definition of wallcoverings are materials that are covered in other
categories, such as paint, structural components of walls, or adhesives that are purchased separately
from the wallcovering material. However, the paste in pre-pasted wallpaper is considered here as part of
the wallcovering.
2.1.1 P roduct Classification
Two classification schemes were considered for wallpaper products: the Census of
Manufactures Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) and the American Society for Testing and Materials
(ASTM) classification.1,2 The ASTM classification is based primarily on durability, and groups
wallpaper products into six categories on the basis of colorfastness, washability, scrubbability, abrasion
resistance, breaking strength, and other measures of durability. The ASTM wallpaper categories are:
Category Description
The main drawback of using this classification for the purposes of this report is that it does not relate the
categories to particular wallpaper materials.
2
3
4
5
6
Decorative only
Decorative with limited serviceability
Decorative with medium serviceability
Decorative with high serviceability
Medium commercial serviceability
Full commercial serviceability
2-1
-------
The Census of Manufactures SIC classification organizes walipaper by type of backing and
facing material and facing thickness in mils (1 mil = 1/1000 of an inch). The SIC classification, shown in
Figure 2-1, was chosen for this report because it is both material- and product-oriented, making
associations of emissions to products much easier than with the ASTM classification. In this section,
the SIC classification for wallpaper is described In detail. The relationship between the SIC categories
and the ASTM categories is provided for additional information.
Category A, paper with less than 2 mils of coating, is basically paper with the least amount of
coating that can be used and still provide an even layer.3 This type of wallpaper is referred to as
"washable," and correlates best with Categories 1 and 2 of the ASTM classification. Category A
wallpaper represents a common wallpaper construction for residential do-it-yourself applications.
Whether this type of wallpaper is considered to be nonstrippabie or dry-strippable is mainly a function of
the glue that is used and the wall preparation prior to hanging. Strippable wallpaper, as defined by the
ASTM, is "capable of being dry-stripped without leaving appreciable residue or otherwise damaging the
wall."2
Category B wallpaper, which is paper-backed, coated, or laminated with 2 mils or more of
plastics is a heavier, more durable residential wallpaper. This type of wallpaper is referred to as
"scrubbable," and probably falls somewhere between Categories 3 and 4 of the ASTM classification. The
thicker coating on this wallpaper gives it added water resistance, making it well-suited for kitchen and
bathroom use. The difference between prepasted and nonpasted wallpaper in this category is that
prepasted wallpaper has factory-applied paste while nonpasted does not.
Categories C and D wallpapers, which are fabric backed, coated, or laminated with vinyl chloride
polymer or other plastics (e.g., mylar), are even heavier and more durable than Category B wallpaper.
These wallpapers can be used in residences for special purposes such as wall reinforcement, but are
generally used for commercial applications. These wallpapers have commercial serviceability (i.e., high
durability), and correlate with Categories 4, 5, and 6 of the ASTM classification. Woven-backed
wallpaper has greater strength than the nonwoven-backed wallpaper.
Category E, other wallpapers, includes fiberglass wallpapers, wallpapers containing silk,
bamboo, grass cloth and other natural materials, and scenic or mural panel decorations that contain
fabric or paper.
Under the "paneling" classification, the plastic panel category includes decorative plastic
laminates and molded sheets of plastic reinforced with glass fiber. Decorative plastic laminates consist
2-2
-------
I. WALLPAPER
A.
Paper with less than 2 mils3 of coating
1. Nonstrippable
2. Dry-strippable
B.
Paper-backed, coated, or laminated with 2 mils of plastics or more.
1. Pre-pasted
2. Nonpasted
C.
Fabric-backed, coated, or laminated with vinyl chloride polymer
1. Woven
2. Nonwoven
D.
Fabric-backed, coated, or laminated with other plastics
1. Woven
2. Nonwoven
E.
Other wallpapers
II. PANELING
A.
Wood-based panelsb
B.
Plastic panels j
III. OTHER WALLCOVERINGS
aNole: 1 mil = 1/1000 of an inch or 0.0254 mm.
bComplete information regarding wood-based paneling will be presented in the Wood Products chapter in Volume II of tiis
Catalog. They are shown here only to illustrate how they relate to other wallcoverings.
Figure 2-1. Classification of Wallcoverings
2-3
-------
of three or more layers of resin-impregnated paper and tissue. Plastic laminates provide "hard, durable,
wear-, heat-, light-, and stain-resistant surfaces."4
The "other wallcoverings" classification mainly, includes plastic and ceramic tiles. Ceramic tiles
consist of clay coated with a glaze. Additional materials such as chromium oxide are sometimes added
to change the color of the clay.4 Plastic tiles are made of polystyrene and urea-formaldehyde resins.4
2.1.2 Product Major Uses
Wallcoverings are used on the surface of walls for decorative and/or functional purposes.
Category A wallpaper is a do-it-yourself residential wallpaper used in dry, low-traffic areas. Category B
wallpaper is a do-it-yourself residential wallpaper used in medium-traffic areas where moisture resistance
is needed. Categories C and D wallpapers are commercial-grade wallpapers used in high-traffic areas
where extra durability is needed. Plastic laminates are used on room dividers, wall panels, and areas
where extra durability is required.
One of the major products under the SIC "other wallcoverings" classification is wall tiles (plastic
and clay). Wall tiles are generally used where water resistance is most needed, such as in bathrooms,
kitchens, and washrooms. Tiles are also used as a dado (i.e., a decoration adorning the lower part of
an interior wall), or in tile mosaics. Ceramic tiles are usually more durable than plastic tiles 4
2.1.3 Sales and Production
Sales data, in the form of the dollar value of annual product shipments, are shown in Table 2-1
for wallpaper and tile. Sales data in the form of the amount of material shipped were not available. Dry-
strippable wallpaper with less than 2 mils of coating (typically vinyl chloride polymer) has the greatest
dollar value of annual shipments at $206.4 million. This lightweight, washable, thinly vinyi-coated paper
is the most widely used residential wallpaper. Woven fabric-backed wallpaper, which is coated with vinyl
chloride polymer, also has a high dollar value of annual shipments at $186.1 million. The majority of this
type of wallpaper is used in commercial applications.5
Two estimates were obtained for the retail value of wallpaper sold in 1990. A value of
$2.2 billion, which includes both residential and commercial wallcoverings, was quoted by the National
Decorating Products Association.6 An estimate of $3.5 billion (or 170 million rolls) which includes
residential and commercial wallcoverings in addition to draperies and bedding, was quoted by
Wallcoverings Magazine7,8 The total value of wallpaper shipments, as shown in Table 2-1, was
$530.2 million in 1987.1 The large difference between the value of shipments and the retail value
2-4
-------
Table 2-1
Annual Product Shipments of Wallcoverings3
Category
Value
(in Millions of $)
1. Wallpaper
530.2
A. Paper with less than 2 mils of coating
1. Nonstrippable
2. Dry-strippable
214.0
7.6
206 4
B. Paper-backed, coated, or laminated with 2 mils of plastics or more
1. Pre-pasted
2. Nonpasted
62.0
38.2
23.8
C. Fabric-backed, coated, or laminated with vinyl chloride polymer
1. Woven
2. Nonwoven
219.4
186.1
33.3
D, Fabric-backed, coated, or laminated with other plastics
1. Woven
2. Nonwoven
E. Other Wallpapers
3.0
II. Paneling
NAb
III. Other Wallcoverings
I
A. Clay tile, including floor tile
B. Plastic tile, including ceiling tile
616.6
48.7
a Reference 1.
k NA = Not available.
2-5
-------
estimates of the products is probably due to price markups at various stages of the products' movement
from the factory to the retail store. Additionally, while the number of rolls of wallpaper sold has actually
declined in the last few years, the price per roll has increased.6
As shown in Table 2-1, the shipment value for clay tiles was $616.6 million in 1987. This value
includes wall and floor tile. The product shipment value of $48.7 million for plastic tiles includes both
wall and ceiling tile. Without knowing what portion of these product shipment values represents tiles
used on walls, it is difficult to compare these figures to the figures for wallpaper. The figures do seem to
indicate, however, that the product shipment value of clay wall tiles was higher than that for plastic wall
tiles.
2.2 Major Constituents of Concern
Wallpaper can have as many as four major layers: the facing, an intermediate layer, the backing,
and the paste.9 A variety of materials can be used to make up each of these layers. Chemical level
constituent data on wallcoverings are very limited. One general text on building materials cites the
composition of the hanging papers that are used to make wallpaper as inert substances such as
groundwood, clay, rosin, sodium silicate, and talc.4
A study of the flexible vinyl coating and printing industry manufacturing process provided
information on the constituents of the vinyl and the inks used to make vinyl wallpaper. From an indoor
air perspective, the printing solvents that are used, such as ketones (methyl ethyl ketone),
tetrahydrafuran, toluene, and xylene, can be a concern. However, some wallpaper manufacturers are
using water-based rather than solvent-based inks. These water-based inks would be expected to have
lower emissions of solvents, thereby reducing overall emissions from the wallpaper.
According to one general adhesive reference, the major constituents of wallpaper pastes are
starch, cellulose, and urea.10 Additionally, one paste was found to contain mineral spirits.
Constituent information on wallcoverings other than wallpaper is very limited. Data were
identified for plastic paneling materials, plastic tiles, and clay tiles. The most notable of these
constituents was urea-formaldehyde resins in the plastic tiles.4
In addition to the type of materials that make up a product, the amount of material that is used
is also important from an indoor air perspective. Generally, a product containing a greater amount of
material would be expected to have a higher emissions potential than a similar product containing less
of the same type and quality of materials. Of all the wallpaper categories, Category A wallpaper
2-6
-------
contains the least amount of paper and plastic by weight, while category B wallpaper is a heavier
product, with a thicker paper backing and a thicker plastic coating. The substitution of the paper
backing with a fabric backing makes the wallpaper in Categories C and D the heaviest and most
durable.
2.3 Emissions Information
Data on wallcovering emissions are very limited; only three wallcovering emission studies were
identified.11'13 These emission tests were all environmental test chamber studies performed at standard
room conditions.
The study performed by Molhave11 reports only the total VOC emissions. Another study,
conducted by Sheldon,12 reports emissions from wallpaper glued to sheetrock. In this study, it was
not specified what type of wallpaper was used, and it cannot be determined whether the wallpaper, glue,
or sheetrock was the source of the emissions. Sheldon noted emissions of xylene, undecane, decane,
dichloroethane, and trichloroethane from the wallpaper and sheetrock assemblage. The xylene detected
in this study may be from the solvents used in wallpaper printing.
van der Wal13 reports measurable emissions of toluene, aromatic hydrocarbons, chlorinated
hydrocarbons, and formaldehyde from vinyl coated wallpaper. The toluene detected in this study was
possibly from the solvents used in wallpaper printing.
Two manufacturers identified solvents from the printing and finishing of vinyl wallpaper as
potential sources of methyl ethyl ketone or toluene emissions.9,14 However, these emissions drop
sharply after 1 to 2 weeks, and are reduced when the solvents are driven off when the wallpaper is
heated during manufacturing.9,14 In addition, some of the plasticizers from vinyl wallpaper may be
emitted, but this occurs only at high temperatures.14
Two studies have been identified that show that the application of wallcovering materials to
wood products can help prevent formaldehyde emissions from wood products from entering living areas.
In one study,15 a 2-mil vinyl film was applied to high formaldehyde-emitting hardwood plywood panels.
The result was a 90% reduction in formaldehyde emissions from the panels. In another study,16 a
paper wallpaper and a vinyl wallpaper were applied to particleboard and emissions were measured in a
chamber. The vinyl wallpaper reduced formaldehyde emissions from the particleboard by 85%, whereas
the paper wallpaper had a limited effect. The vinyl coating on the heavier wallpaper acted as a vapor
barrier, preventing the formaldehyde from escaping the particleboard.
2-7
-------
2.4 Data Tables
The following data tables summarize information identified in the literature relating to the
wallcovering product category. Only VOCs are presented in these data tables; components such as
nonvolatile inert ingredients, fillers, and inorganics that may be constituents of a product are not
included. Each VOC is Identified as a constituent or an emission. In many cases, compounds were
identified in the literature as constituents, but had not specifically been identified through emissions
testing. In addition, a few compounds were identified as being emitted from a product, but not listed as
a constituent. In these cases, emissions may be the result of a chemical reaction within the product.
Emission rates are presented for those compounds that were identified in the literature as being
emitted. These rates are presented as ranges where multiple emission rates were identified.
Chemicals that are hazardous air pollutants (as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended in
November, 1990), carcinogens, or which have a threshold limit value established are designated by an
"H", "C", or "T", respectively, in the column following the chemical.
Full reference citations for all Information presented In the tables are included at the end of the
section. The appendix at the end of this section presents additional information, where available,
concerning test conditions for literature cited.
2-8
-------
ORGANIZATION OF DATA TABLES
WALLPAPER
Wallpaper (Unspecified) 2-10
Wallpaper (Unspecified and glued to sheetrock) 2-11
Wallpaper - Paper with less than 2 mils of coating 2-12
Wallpaper -- Paper Backed, Coated, or Laminated with 2 mils of Plastic or more
-- Prepasted 2-13
Wallpaper--Vinyl and Glass Fibers 2-14
Wallpaper--Vinyl Coated 2-15
Wallpaper--PVC 2-16
Other Wallpaper -- Hessian (Burlap) 2-17
Other Wallpaper - Textile 2-18
PANELING
Plastic Panels 2-19
OTHER WALLCOVERINGS
Plastic Tile 2-20
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES 2-21
2-9
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Wallcoverings
Chapter Wallpaper Product NP
SIC 26791
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max
Units
Ref
SUBPRODUCT: Paste
4-Chloro-meta-cresol
X
10
Acrylamide Polymer
X
9
Anionic Polyacrylamide
X
10
Carboxymethyl Cellulose
9004-32-4
X
10
Hydroxyethyl Cellulose
X
10
Mineral Spirits
X
9
Parachloro-meta Cresol
59-50-7
X
10
Polyacrylamide
9003-05-8
X
10
Urea
57-13-6
X
10
SUBPRODUCT: Ink
Glycols (Water-Based)
X
9
Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)
H,T
78-93-3
X
9
Methyl Methacrylate
H,T
8062-6
X
9
Toluene
H.T
108-88-3
X
9
SUBPRODUCT: Waterproofing
Formamide
T
75-12-7
X
18
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NP - No product.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Wallcoverings
Chapter Wallpaper Product NP
(glued to sheetrock)
SIC 26791
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
1,1,1 -Trichloroethane
H.T
71-55-6
5
ug/m2-hr
12
1,2-Dichloroethane
107-06-2
186
ug/m2-hr
12
m,p-Xylene
1.6
ug/m2-hr
12
n-Decane
124-18-5
11.4
ug/m2-hr
12
n-Undecane
1120-21-4
18
ug/m2-hr
12
o-Xylene
H,T
95-47-6
0.4
ug/m2-hr
12
p-Xylene
106-42-3
1.6
ug/m2-hr
12
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NP - No product.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Wallcoverings
Chapter Wallpaper Product Paper with Less than 2 mils of Coating
SIC 26791
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Acrylic (Binder)
X
9
Polyvinyl Acetate (Binder)
X
9
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
30
ug/m2-hr
11
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Wallcoverings
Product Paper Backed, Coated, or Laminated
with 2 mils of Plastic or More-Prepasted
Usage/Sales $3.82E+07
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Polyvinyl Chloride
9002-86-2
X
9
Chapter Wallpaper
SIC 26791
Usage/Sales ND
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Wallcoverings
Chapter Wallpaper Product Vinyl and Glass Fibers
SIC 26791
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
300
ug/m2-hr
11
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Wallcoverings
Chapter Wallpaper Product Vinyl Coated
SIC 26791
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max
Units
Ref
Chlorinated Hydrocarbons
13.33
10
20
ug/m2-hr
13
Formaldehyde
C.H.T
50-00-0
15
ug/m2-hr
13
Other Aromatic Hydrocarbons
10
5
15
ug/m2-hr
13
Toluene
H.T
108-88-3
21.67
5
50
ug/m2-hr
13
SUBPRODUCT: Printing solvents
Ketones
X
17
Tetrahydrofuran
T
109-99-9
X
17
Toluene
H,T
108-88-3
X
17
Xylene
H.T
1330-20-7
X
17
SUBPRODUCT: Vinyl web
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Resins
9002-86-2
X
17
Vinyl Chloride/Vinyl Acetate
Copolymers
H
X
17
SUBPRODUCT: Waterborne inks and resins
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
X
17
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Wallcoverings
Chapter
Wallpaper
Product
PVC
SIC
Usage/Sales
26791
ND
Usage/Sales
ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
"Average
Min
Max
Units
Ref
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
100
ug/m2-hr
11
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Wallcoverings
Chapter
Other Wallpapers
Product
Hessian (Burlap)
Usage/Sales
ND
Usage/Sales
ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max
Units
Ref
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
5.0
ug/m2-hr
11
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Wallcoverings
Chapter
Other Wallpapers
Product
Textile
Usage/Sales
ND
Usage/Sales
ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max
Units
Ref
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
840
80
1600
ug/m2-hr
11
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Wallcoverings
Chapter Paneling Product Plastic Panels
SIC 30898-01 SIC 30898-06
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales $52.5 million
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS# Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average Min Max Units
SUBPRODUCT: Plastic laminate
Melamine Resin
X
4
SUBPRODUCT: Vinyl and paper
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
40 ug/m2-hr 11
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Wallcoverings
Chapter Other Wallcoverings Product Plastic Tile
SIC 30898-07
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales $4.87E+07
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Polystyrene
9003-53-6
X
9
Urea-Formaldehyde Resins
X
4
ND - No data.
-------
Wallcoverings
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES
11
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Molhave, 1982
Chamber Study
GC/MS
Value
Min
Max
Units
«RH
35
40
%
iTemp
21.1
°C
IACH
1
j
Testina Duration
Comment:
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Analysis Method:
Sheldon, et. al., 1988
Chamber Study
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
60
75
%
Temp
25
26.5
° c i
ACH
0.59
0.61
Testinq Duration
>12
hr
12
Comment:
13 Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Analysis Method:
van der Wal, et. al., 1990
Chamber Study
Tenax Tubes, Charcoal Adsorption Tubes,
Bubblers
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
50
%
Temp
23
°C
ACH
1
Testing Duration
1
24
hr
Comment:
2-21
-------
REFERENCES
1. 1987 Census of Manufactures. Industry Series. U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of the
Census, Washington, D.C.
2. American Society for Testing and Materials, 1989 Annual Book of ASTM Standards, Volume
15.07, End Use Products, Designation F793. 1989.
3. Telephone conversation. Chris Sarsony of Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with Paul Manse of GenCorp Polymer Products. 22 August 1991.
4. Smith, R.C. and C.K. Andres. Materials of Construction. McGraw-Hill Book Company, Atlanta,
Georgia. 1988.
5. Telephone conversation. Chris Sarsony of Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with David M. Groff, author of Encvciooedla of Wallpapering and The Complete Guide
to Wallpapering.
6. Telephone conversation. Chris Sarsony of Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with David Weiss of National Decorating Products Association. 25 June 1991.
7. Telephone conversation. Chris Sarsony of Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with Robert Johnson of Wallcoverings Magazine. 2 July 1991.
8. Fax from Kathy Day of Guard Contract Vinyl Wallcoverings. 15 July 1991.
9. Telephone conversation. Chris Sarsony, Radian Corporation, with George Girupnieks,
Sunworthy Wallcoverings. 16 July 1991.
10. Skeist, I. Handbook of Adhesives (3rd Edition). Van Nostrand Reinhold, New York, New York.
1990.
11. Molhave, L. Indoor Air Pollution Due to Organic Gases and Vapours of Solvents in Building
Materials. Environ. Int., 8: 117-127. 1982.
12. Sheldon, L., et al. Indoor Air Quality in Public Buildings, Volume II. EPA/60G/6-88/Q09b.
(NTIS PB89-102511). 1988.
13. van der Wal, J. F,, et al. Measurement of Organic Compound Emissions from Consumer
Products In a Walk-In Test Chamber. ]n; Proceedings of the 5th International Conference on
Indoor Air Quality and Climate, Vol. 3. 1990.
14. Telephone conversation. Chris Sarsony, Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with Bruce Barden of GenCorp Polymer Products. 26 June 1991.
15. Groah, W.J. et al. Effect of a Decorative Overlay on Formaldehyde Emissions. For. Prod. J.,
34:27-29. 1984.
16. Haneto, P. Effects of Diffusion Barriers on Formaldehyde Emissions from Particleboard.
Formaldehyde Release from Wood Products. American Chemical Society Symposium
Series 316. 202-208. 1986.
17. Flexible Vinyl Coating and Printing Operations - Background Information for Proposed
Standards. EPA,450/3-81-0l6a. (NTIS PB83-169136). U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,
Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. 1983.
2-22
-------
REFERENCES (Continued)
Meyers, R.A. Handbook of Chemicals Production Processes. McGraw-Hill Book Company,
New York, New York. 1986.
2-23
-------
3.0 RESIUEhTT FLOOR COVERING
3.1 Description of Product Category
Resilient floor coverings are produced in sheet or tile form and are composed of various resins,
plasticizers, fibers, pigments, and fillers formed under heat and pressure.1 Resilient flooring is capable
of withstanding moderately heavy traffic, moisture, dirt, and some chemicals without permanent
deformation or loss of shine.
The term "resilient flooring" is often considered synonymous with vinyl flooring, as most current
resilient flooring is, in fact, vinyl flooring. However, a few nonvinyl flooring materials (e.g., linoleum,
rubber, and cork) are included under this heading. Linoleum flooring has not been manufactured in the
United States in about 20 years, but the term is often misused to refer to any type of resilient or vinyl
flooring in roll or sheet form. Rubber and cork flooring will not be discussed here in as much detail as
other types of flooring because they have a relatively low market share.
3.1.1 Product Classification
The product classification for resilient floor coverings presented in Figure 3-1 was developed
primarily from the Census of Manufactures SIC Classification, although information obtained from other
sources was also used.1,2,3,4 The classification is based on the composition of the various types of
resilient floor coverings. The two major categories of resilient floor coverings are sheet vinyl flooring and
vinyl tile.
SHEET VINYL FLOORING
FLOOR TILE
1. Vinyl tile
2. Vinyl composition tile
OTHER (NONVINYL) RESILIENT FLOOR COVERINGS (LINOLEUM,
RUBBER, AND CORK)
Figure 3-1. Classification of Resilient Flooring Products
3-1
-------
Sheet Vinyl Flooring
Sheet vinyl flooring is produced in rolls and typically is installed with adhesives by professional
flooring installers. Water- or solvent-based adhesives can be used for installing all types of resilient floor
coverings. In many cases, the manufacturer's warranty requires that a specific adhesive be used.4 (See
Section 5.0 for specific information on adhesives.) Off-gassing of organic vapors can occur during and
after installation from both the flooring itself and the adhesives. Data Indicate that vapor emission rates
decrease substantially within 24 hours after installation,4 The use of adhesives may be avoided by
stretching the sheet over the floor surface and securing the edges with floor molding. Some sheet vinyl
flooring can be stapled at the perimeter and adhered only at the seams and portions of the perimeter.
Most residential sheet vinyl floorings produced today are considered "no-wax" floors because
they do not require the application of a wax or finish, which may itself be a source of emissions.5,6,7
Floor Tile
Resilient floor tile can be subdivided into two types: vinyl tile and vinyl composition tile. Vinyl
tile, also referred to as "homogeneous vinyl," contains a higher proportion of vinyl constituents (e.g., vinyl
polyvinyl chloride resin) to fillers than does vinyl composition tile. Vinyl composition tile formerly
contained asbestos as a filler; however, vinyl asbestos tile is no longer manufactured domestically
Common fillers currently used include limestone and clay.
Both vinyl and vinyl composition tiles are available plain-backed or adhesive-backed. Plain-
backed tile requires adhesives and is normally professionally installed. Commercial tile is normally
available in dry-backed form only. Adhesive-backed tile is popular with the "do-it-yourself' homeowner
because installation consists of merely peeling a protective paper off the back of a tile and pressing the
tile in place. Some adhesive-backed tiles produce less odor during and immediately after installation
than tiles requiring applied adhesives.4
Other (Nonvinyl) Resilient Floor Coverings
Linoleum flooring is no longer manufactured in the United States, although some is imported
from Europe.3 It has good resistance to abrasion, but poor resistance to some spills. Linoleum flooring
is made by laying a mixture of solidified linseed oil and gums, cork dust and/or wood flour, and (usually)
pigments on a jute or saturated felt backing. Linoleum, like most vinyl flooring, requires adhesives for
installation. The adhesives, as well as the saturated backing, may be sources of emissions.6,8
3-2
-------
Rubber flooring provides excellent resistance to indentation, whereas cork tile (which is
composed of compressed granulated cork bonded with a heat-processed resinous binder) displays poor
wear resistance.1
3.1.2 Major Product Uses
Resilient floor coverings are suitable for Indoor use only in areas that are subject to light-to-
heavy foot traffic (depending on the thickness and composition of the material). Table 3-1 summarizes
the major uses of resilient flooring.1'5
Table 3-1
Major Uses of Resilient Flooring
Resilient Flooring
Uses
Vinyl Flooring
Sheet vinyl
Residential (such as in entrance ways)
Vinyl tile
Some residential, but primarily commercial/institutional
Vinyl composition tile
Exclusively commercial/institutional
Nonvinyl Flooring
Linoleum
Imported for commercial/institutional use
Rubber
Commercial/institutional (stair covering, locker room, skating rink)
Cork
Residential (light foot-traffic area)
Sheet vinyl flooring Is most popular in homes, and its residential use is increasing,3
Homeowners are attracted to the variety of colors and patterns, affordability, and ease of upkeep. The
newer vinyl tiles, which have laminated or embossed designs, are becoming popular with residential
interior designers and architects.
Vinyl composition tile is used in institutions and commercial settings because of its competitive
advantages over sheet vinyl. Some vinyl composition tile is available with slip-resistant features. Static
dissipative vinyl and vinyl composition tile is also available for use in offices, computer centers, and
other applications where static electricity presents potential problems.7
Linoleum flooring installed in the past 15 years is primarily found in commercial settings.
Designers and architects are attempting to make linoleum popular again by introducing new patterns
3-3
-------
and colors. Rubber flooring material is useful for floor runners, stair tread covering, and in locker rooms.
Cork tile is normally used in light-foot-traffic areas in residential settings.
3.1.3 Sales and Production
The resilient floor covering industry consists of two or three very large companies and a number
of smaller companies.4 The Department of Commerce's Census of Manufactures data indicate that
approximately 350.1 million square yards of resilient flooring were produced in 1987 with a product
shipment value of $1,236.5 million.2
The Census information does not show separate values for sheet vinyl and floor tile Because
plain-backed vinyl composition tile is used almost exclusively in office buildings, schools, hospitals, and
other commercial and institutional settings, sales reportedly are very dependent on the general economy
and the number of buildings being constructed in a given area.
Table 3-2 provides one source's 1989 and projected 1994 sales data for resilient flooring by
use.9 Another source, however, gives sales figures that are approximately half of those shown in
Table 3-2.10 The current recession has decreased new housing and commercial construction, and a
slow-down in sales of existing homes have weakened consumer demand and decreased retail profits for
the industry.10 The second source did agree that projected sales of resilient flooring in 1994 should
show an overall increase of approximately 2.9 - 3.0% over 1989.10
Table 3-2
Resilient Flooring Sales and Projected Sales In the United States3
(in millions of square yards)
1989
1994
% Change in 89/94
Total Resilient Flooring Sales
539
621
+ 2.9
Commercial
262
299
+ 2.7
Residential
172
200
+ 3.1
Institutional
80
94
+ 3.3
Construction/Industrial
25
28
+ 2.3
a Reference 9.
3-4
-------
3.2
Major Constituents of Concern
The resilient floor coverings constituent data included in Section 3.4 of this Catalog were
obtained from research references, industry process descriptions, a New Source Performance Standards
background information document, product brochures, and industry contacts.11'30 The data include
some generic chemical classes rather than specific constituents, and are not very detailed due, in part,
to the fact that much of the chemical constituent information is considered proprietary by the
manufacturer.
Vinyl flooring is composed of synthetic resins, primarily polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or copolymers
of vinyl chloride/vinyl acetate. Vinyl chloride is initially made by the oxychlorination of ethylene, which
produces dichloroethane. The dichtoroethane is reacted to produce vinyi chloride monomer, which is
then polymerized to produce polyvinyl chloride resin.6,14,15 Polyvinyl chloride polymers are the largest
segment of the vinyl family because of their ability to be compounded for a wide range of applications,
their ease of processing, their relatively low cost, and their excellent properties. Copolymers of vinyl
chloride retain the toughness and chemical resistance of PVC but are generally more flexible 15
To obtain certain properties in vinyl flooring, additional components are added to the PVC resin,
including plasticizers, stabilizers, lubricants, processing aids, fillers, and pigments.15,16 It is the ratio of
binder (PVC resins and ptasticizer) to filler (all other ingredients) and the particular vinyl compound used
that ultimately differentiates one type of vinyl flooring from another.6,17 In general, however, vinyl
flooring contains 10 - 68% PVC resin, 3.5 - 32% plasticizers, and 0 - 8% urethane.17 Most sheet vinyl
floorings contain a higher proportion of plasticizer than vinyl tile floorings because the sheet requires
greater flexibility.
Plasticizers in vinyl flooring reduce viscosity during processing by making shaping and forming
easier, and they impart flexibility to the product. Chemically, plasticizers are frequently aliphatic esters of
dibasic acids such as phthalic, adipic, azelaic, and sebacic acids. Epoxidized unsaturated natural esters
(soybean oil) and similar unsaturated esters, as well as phosphate esters, polyester resins, and aromatic
hydrocarbons of high molecular weight, are also found in plasticizers.15 Plasticizers, stabilizers, or
other ingredients may produce the "plastic" smell in vinyl flooring and in other products such as vinyl
shower curtains, toys, and car seats. Vinyl containing large amounts of plasticizer is called "plasticized
vinyl," while vinyl containing little or no plasticizer is called "rigid vinyl." Plasticized vinyl is more
chemically unstable than rigid vinyl and tends to off-gas more into the air.6 18
Some vinyl floor tiles are manufactured by laminating a decorated surface vinyl film to a filled
vinyl base at elevated temperatures. The laminated surface film may or may not contain di(2-ethylhexyl)
3-5
-------
phthalate and butyl benzyl phthalate, compounds which are commonly used as plasticizers6,19 Minor
amounts of the process ingredients evaporate during the manufacturing process, and the balance of the
ingredients are stabilized in the product.6
Some older vinyl flooring tiles contained asbestos to strengthen the flooring and help resist
wear. Although asbestos is not banned from use in flooring tile, U.S. manufacturers have not produced
flooring with asbestos since the mid-1980s.13 Asbestos fibers normally cannot escape from the flooring
surface, but grinding or sanding the flooring can release fibers. Resilient flooring manufacturers
recommend that resilient flooring material not be sanded, dry scraped, beadblasted, or mechanically
pulverized.
3.3 Emissions Information
Methods of studying emissions from resilient flooring include environmental test chamber
studies, and, less frequently, headspace analyses.19'30 Air samples for most of the referenced studies
were collected using tenax tubes, which were subsequently analyzed using gas chromatography/mass
spectrometry. Tests are normally conducted at 25cC and 50% relative humidity using air flows of
0.5 to 1.0 air changes per hour6 Much of the data collected were qualitative rather than quantitative;
that is, constituents were identified but amounts of constituents were not determined. This makes
emissions comparisons difficult. In addition, the referenced studies are not necessarily representative of
flooring manufactured and sold in the United States.6 In some cases, the emissions references did not
specify what type of flooring was tested-there was no differentiation between sheet vinyl flooring, vinyl
tile, and others. One study labeled the flooring "linoleum," but from the emissions data it appears it may
actually have been vinyl flooring.8 As far as can be determined, none of the emissions studies identified
were performed on installed flooring, so the reported emissions may or may not have included the
adhesive. However, several studies did test adhesive-backed vinyl tile.19,29
Many resilient flooring emissions may come from less volatile solvent additives such as
trimethylbenzene and aliphatic hydrocarbons (from nonane MW 128.26 to tetradecane MW 198.4).24
Phenol products may originate from PVC materials.24 Other emissions may originate from impurities in
the raw materials used to manufacture the flooring. This could account for compounds being identified
as emissions but not constituents. For example, one study revealed that emissions from vinyl tile
consisted of benzyl chloride and benzal chloride, contaminants of butyl benzyl phthalate, a constituent of
vinyl tile.
Some studies detected emissions of formaldehyde from certain types of resilient flooring
materials. The amount emitted was less than from wood products, fiberglass, and clothing, but more
3-6
-------
than from carpeting and upholstery fabric 24,26,27 Some modeling studies identified flooring materials as
volatile organic compound (VOC) emitters. In one study of European floor coverings, homogeneous
vinyl tile emitted more VOCs than linoleum or carpet floor materials.20 Another study revealed high
concentrations of VOC emissions from the tested vinyl tiles; the solvents originated from the dyes used
to make patterned tiles.19
One source revealed that in 1984, while analyzing for VOCs in buildings, an unknown compound
was detected.21 It was later determined to be 2,2,4-trlmethyl-1,3-pentane-diol-di-i-butyrate, or TXIB.
Vinyl flooring was found to be the source of this material. TXIB is used as a plasticizer in some sheet
vinyl flooring. According to toxicoiogical data, there Is no evidence of health effects at the air levels
tested.21
Other studies revealed emissions of aromatic hydrocarbons, aliphatic hydrocarbons, and
halogenated hydrocarbons.23 One study that compared emissions 1 to 2 hours after installation with
those after 24 hours, showed a 60% reduction in hydrocarbons within that time period.
3.4 Data Tables
The following data tables summarize information Identified in the literature relating to the resilient
floor covering product category. Only VOCs are presented in these data tables; components such as
nonvolatile inert ingredients, fillers, and inorganics that may be constituents of a product are not
included. Each VOC is identified as a constituent or an emission. In many cases, compounds were
identified in the literature as constituents, but had not specifically been identified through emissions
testing. In addition, a few compounds were identified as being emitted from a product, but not listed as
a constituent. In these cases, emissions may be the result of a chemical reaction within the product.
Emission rates are presented for those compounds that were identified in the literature as being
emitted. These rates are presented as ranges where multiple emission rates were identified.
Chemicals that are hazardous air pollutants (as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended in
November, 1990), carcinogens, or which have a threshold limit value established are designated by an
"H", "C", or "T", respectively, in the column following the chemical.
Full reference citations for all information presented in the tables are included at the end of the
section. The appendix at the end of this section presents additional information, where available,
concerning test conditions for literature cited.
3-7
-------
The tables Include active and volatile inert product constituent data and emissions data that
were obtained from references, contacts, and label inventories.
The tables include resilient floor covering constituent data and emissions data that were
obtained from references and contacts. Limitations in the data include:
• Proprietary constituents;
• Differing testing methods produce data of incomparable format; and
• Generic (not product-specific) nature of some constituent and emissions data.
3-8
-------
ORGANIZATION OF DATA TABLES
Resilient Floor Coverings (Unspecified) 3-10
Sheet Vinyl Flooring 3-11
Vinyl Tile 3-13
Other (Nonvinyl) Resilient Floor Coverings
Linoleum 3-15
Rubber 3-18
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES 3-19
3-9
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Resilient Floor Coverings Product NP
SIC 39960 SIC
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Aliphatic Esters of Dibasic Acids
X
14
Aromatic Hydrocarbons
X
14
Epoxidized Unsaturated Esters
X
14
Formaldehyde
C.H.T
50-00-0
<240
ug/m2-day
26
Phosphate Esters
X
14
Polyester Resin
X
14
Vinyl Chloride
C.H.T
75-01 -4
X _J
14
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NP - No product.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Resilient Floor Coverings Product Sheet Vinyl Flooring
SIC 39960 SIC 39960
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
2-(2-Ethoxyethoxy)ethanol (Carbitol)
111-90-0
NQ
29
Acetone
T
67-64-1
NQ
29
Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
NQ
29
Benzaldehyde
100-52-7
NQ
29
Butyl Acetate
T
123-86-4
NQ
29
Dimethyl Dioxane
25136-55-4
NQ
29
Ketones
X
16
Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)
H.T
78-93-3
NQ
29
Tetrahydrofuran
T
109-99-9
X
16
Toluene
H.T
108-88-3
X
NQ
16,29
Trichloroethylene
H.T
79-01-6
NQ
29
Vinyl Acetate
H,T
108-05-4
X
16
Vinyl Chloride
C.H.T
75-01-4
X
16
Xylene
H,T
1330-20-7
X
16 |
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Resilient Floor Coverings Product Sheet Vinyl Flooring
SIC 39960 SIC 39960
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
2,2,4-TrimethyM ,3-pentanediol
Diisobutyrate
550
100
1000
ug/m3*
21
2-Ethyl-1-hexanol
104-76-7
140
ug/m2-hr
23
Ethylbenzene
H,T
100-41-4
65
40
90
ug/m2-hr
23
Ethyltoluene Isomers
2075
1150
3000
ug/m2-hr
23
Formaldehyde
C.H.T
50-00-0
30
ug/m2-hr
23
Glycol Ether
H
2575
2400
2750
ug/m2-hr
23
Iso-alkanes
19625
11250
28000
ug/m2-hr
23
Toluene
H.T
108-88-3
65
60
70
ug/m2-hr
23
n-Alkanes
6800
3900
9700
ug/m2-hr
23
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
0.59
mg/m2-hr
20
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
*This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Resilient Floor Coverings Product Vinyl Tile
SIC 39960 SIC 39960
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
1 -(2-Butoxyethoxy)ethanol
NQ
19
2-Butanone
H.T
78-93-3
NQ
-
19
2-Ethyl-1 -hexanol
104-76-7
NQ
19
Benzal Chloride
98-87-3
4.5
2
7
ug/m2-hr
19
Benzaldehyde
100-52-7
NQ
19
Benzyl Butyl Ether
NQ
19
Benzyl Chloride
H,T
100-44-7
1.4
0.8
2
ug/m2-hr
19
Butanol
T
71-36-3
NQ
19
Cyclohexanone
T
108-94-1
NQ
19
Decanol
112-30-1
NQ
19
Hexanol
111-27-3
NQ
19
Phenol
H.T
108-95-2
NQ
19
Toluene
H,T
108-88-3
NQ
19
Trichloroethene
H,T
79-01-6
NQ
19
SUBPRODUCT: Adhesive-backed I
Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
NQ
29 |
Butyl Benzyl Phthalate
85-68-7
X
19
Di(2-ethylhexyl)phthalate
T
117-81-7
X
19
Dimethyl Cyclohexane
NQ
29
Polyvinyl Chloride
9002-86-2
X
19
Octane
T
111-65-9
NQ
29 |
SUBPRODUCT: Homogeneous PVC I
Total Volatile Organic Compounds 2.3 mg/m2-hr 20 |
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Resilient Floor Coverings Product Vinyl Tile
SIC 39960 SIC 39960
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average Min Max Units
SUBPRODUCT: Asbestos, adhesive-backed
Nonane
T
111-84-2
NQ
29
Octane
T
111-65-9
NQ
29
Propylbenzene
103-65-1
NQ
29
Toluene
H.T
108-88-3
NQ
29
Trichloroethylene
H.T
79-01-6
NQ
29
Xylene
H.T
1330-20-7
NQ
29
SUBPRODUCT: Asbestos, plain-backed
Acetophenone
H
98-86-2
NQ
29
Alkylbenzene
NQ
29
Benzaldehyde
100-52-7
NQ
29
Benzyl Alcohol
100-51-6
NQ
29
Butylbenzyl Ether
NQ
29
Toluene
H.T
108-88-3
NQ
29
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Resilient Floor Coverings Product Other Resilient Floor Coverings
SIC 39960 SIC
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max
Units
Ref
SUBPRODUCT: Linoleum tile
Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
6
ug/m2-hr
8
Aromatic Hydrocarbons
35
ug/m2-hr
8
Chlorinated Hydrocarbons
1.3
ug/m2-hr
8
Ethylbenzene
H.T
100-41-4
0.45
ug/m2-hr
8
Halogenated Hydrocarbons
4
ug/m2-hr
8
Isopropylbenzene
T
98-82-8
0.41
ug/m2-hr
8
m-Ethyltoluene
3.2
ug/m2-hr
8
n-Dodecane
112-40-3
0.45
ug/m2-hr
8
n-Propylbenzene
103-65-1
0.84
ug/m2-hr
8
n-Undecane
1120-21-4
1.2
ug/m2-hr
8
o-Xylene
H.T
95-47-6
0.89
ug/m2-hr
8
Styrene
H.T
100-42-5
0.63
ug/m2-hr
8
Trichloroethylene
H,T
79-01-6
1.3
ug/m2-hr
8
m-Xylene
H.T
108-38-3
0.92
ug/m2-hr
8
1,3,5-Trimethylbenzene
108-67-8
1.4
ug/m2-hr
8
o-Ethyltoluene
611-14-3
1.3
ug/m2-hr
8
1,2,3-Trimethylbenzene
95-63-6
2.5
ug/m2-hr
8
1,2,4-Trimethylbenzene
95-63-6
4.7
ug/m2-hr
8
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Resilient Floor Coverings Product Other Resilient Floor Coverings
SIC 39960 SIC
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average Min Max Units
SUBPRODUCT: Linoleum
1,2,4-Trimethylbenzene
95-63-6
NQ
30
Butyl Acetate
T
123-86-4
NQ
30
Ethyl Acetate
T
141-78-6
NQ
30
Formaldehyde
C.H.T
50-00-0
NQ
30
Isobutyl Acetate
T
110-19-0
NQ
30
Toluene
H,T
108-88-3
NQ
30
i-Butanol
H.T
78-92-2
NQ
30
n-Butanol
H,T
71-36-3
NQ
30
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter
Resilient Floor Coverings
Product
Linoleum
SIC
Usage/Sales
39960
ND
SIC
Usage/Sales
39960-98
ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max
Units
Ref
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
0.22
mg/m2-hr
20
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Resilient Floor Coverings
SIC 39960
Usage/Sales ND
Product Other Resilient Floor Coverings
SIC
Usage/Sales ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average Min
Max
Units
Ref
SUBPRODUCT: Rubber
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
1.4
mg/m2-hr
20
ND - No data.
-------
Resilient Floor Coverings
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES
8
19
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Wallace, 1987
Chamber Study
Tenax Tubes
Value
Min Max
Units
RH
48
.
%
jTemp
25
°C
!ACH
1 Testing Duration
1
Comment: Samples were maximum of 4 months old.
Testing duration not given.
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Rittfeldt et al., 1984
Chamber Study
Tenax Tubes
— » ' ¦
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
%
Temp
°C
ACH
0.07
0.5
Testina Duration
Comment: Qualitative data. Sample (vinyl tile)
was newly manufactured. Duration of testing not known.
21 Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Rosell, 1990
Test House
Tenax Tubes
GC. GC/MS
Value Min Max
Units
RH
•
%
Temp
°C
ACH
Testina Duration
hr
Comment: Air quality measurements taken of
non-industrial buildings such as offices, schools, daycare centers,
and homes. Age of flooring varied. Concentrations of VOCs
determined.
3-19
-------
appendix to data tables
(Continued)
23 Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Analysis Method:
van der Wal, 1990
Chamber Study
Tenax Tubes, Charcoal Adsorption Tubes,
HCI Bubbler
Value Min
Max
Unite
RH
50
%
Temp
23
°C
ACH
¦
Testing Duration
1 1
24
hr
Comment: PVC floor covering samples were newly
purchased and unwrapped in the test chamber. Floor samples
were cut to the size of the chamber and laid on its floor (but
not adhered). First sample taken immediately, and later samples
subsequently after a conditioning period of 24 hours.
Test duration: 1-2 hours and 24 hours.
26 Reference: Godish, 1984
Test Method: Chamber Study
Sampling Method:
Analysis Method:
Value
Min
Max
Units
•RH
%
Temp
°C
ACH
Testing Duration 1
day
Comment: Testing parameters not available;
sampling and analytical methods not known.
29 Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Miksch et al., 1982
Test House
Tenax Tubes
l
Value
Min
Max
Units
iRH
i %
Temp
I j °C
ACH
Testing Duration
Comment: Qualitative data. Sample was newly
manufactured.
3-20
-------
appendix to data tables
(Continued)
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Tucker, 1988
Chamber Study, Headspace Study
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
%
Temp
I
°C
ACH
Testing Duration
hr
Comment:
Qualitative data; no other available information.
3-21
-------
REFERENCES
1. Sweet's Catalog File - Products lor General Building and Renovation. McGraw Hill, New York.
1987. pp. 2-86 through 2-124.
2. Bureau of the Census, U.S. Department of Commerce. Current Industrial Reports, M28F(89).
12 December 1987.
3. Telephone conversation. Candace Blackley, Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with John van Namee, J.J. Haynes Company. 28 August 1991.
4. Telephone conversation. Candace Blackley, Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with Bill MIms, Johnson Flooring Company. 23 August 1991.
5. Telephone conversation. Candace Blackley, Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with Lloyd Sorrell, Sorrell's Paint and Wallpaper. 23 August 1991.
6. Correspondence from W.H. Freeman, Jr., Special Projects Floor Division, Armstrong World
Industries, Inc., to Ann Leininger, Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.
15 May 1992.
7. Armstrong Commercial Product Information. 3 September 1991.
8. Wallace, L. et al. Emission Rates of Volatile Organic Compounds from Building Materials and
Surface Coatings. ]n: Proceedings of 1987 EPA/APCA Symposium on Measurement of Toxic
and Related Air Pollutants, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. May 1987.
9. The Freedonia Group, Inc. Hard Surface Flooring Sales. Cleveland, Ohio. October 1990.
10. Telephone conversation. Candace Blackley, Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with Cliff Neely, October Consultants. 4 June 1992.
11. Armstrong Residential Product Information. 13 September 1990.
12. Bangor Cork Corporation Product Information. April 1991.
13. Telephone conversation. Candace Blackley, Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with Tom Nelson, Radian Corporation, Austin, Texas 12 August 1991.
14. Jones, R.W. and R.H. Simon. Synthetic Plastics. ]n: Riegal's Handbook of Industrial Chemistry,
J.A. Kent, ed. van Nostrand Reinhold Company, Inc., New York, New York. 1983. pp. 311-377.
15. Austin, G.T. Shreve's Chemical Process Industries. McGraw-Hill, New York. Fifth Edition.
1984.
16. Flexible Vinyl Coating and Printing Operations - Background Information for Proposed
Standards. EPA-450/3-81-016a. (NTIS PB83-169136). U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Office of Air Quality Planning and Standards. January 1983.
17. Telephone conversation. Joanie McLean, Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with George Delane, New York State Office of Fire Prevention and Control
11 September 1990.
3-22
-------
REFERENCES (Continued)
18. Hunter, l.M. The Healthy Home. Rodale Press, Emmaaus, Pennsylvania. 1989.
19. Rittfeldt, L, et al. Indoor Air Pollutants Due to Vinyl Floor Tiles. 1q: Proceedings of the
3rd International Conference on Indoor Air Quality and Climate, Volume 3. 1984. pp. 297-302.
20. Molhave, 1. Indoor Air Pollution Due to Organic Gases and Vapors of Solvents in Building
Materials. Environ. Int., 8:117-127. 1982.
21. Rosell, L. High Levels of a Semi-VOC in Indoor Air Due to Emission from Vinyl Floorings.
]n; Proceedings of the 5th International Conference on Indoor Air Quality and Climate,
Volume 3. 1990. pp. 707-712.
22. Levin, H. Building Materials and Indoor Air Quality. Occupational Medicine: State of the Art
Reviews, 4:4. October - December, 1989.
23. van der Wal, J.F. Measurement of Organic Compound Emissions from Consumer Products in a
Walk-In Test Chamber. jn: Proceedings of the 5th International Conference on Indoor Air
Quality and Climate, Volume 3. 1990. pp. 611-615.
24. Engstrom, K. Building Materials: A Source of Indoor Air Pollution, jn: Proceedings of the 5th
International Conference on Indoor Air Quality and Climate, Volume 3. 1990.
25. Tucker, W.G, Building with Low-Emitting Materials and Products: Where Do We Stand?
Presented at Indoor Air '90, Toronto, Canada. 1990.
26. Godish. T. Source Control - Organic Contaminants. Indoor Air Pollution Control. Lewis
Publishers. 1984.
27. Pickrell, J.A. et al. Release of Formaldehyde from Various Consumer Products. Inhalation
Toxicology Research Institute. February 1982.
28. Tichenor, B. and M. Mason. Organic Emissions from Consumer Products and Building Materials
to the Indoor Environment. JAPCA, 38:264-268. 1988.
29. Miksch, R.R., C D. Holowell, and H.E. Schmidt. Trace Organic Chemical Contaminants in Office
Spaces. Env. Int. 8:129-137. 1982.
30. Tucker, W.G. Emissions of Air Pollutants from Indoor Materials: An Emerging Design
Consideration. Presented at Fifth Canadian Building and Construction Congress, Montreal.
1988.
3-23
-------
4.0 CARPET
4.1 Description of Product Category
Carpet is a general term used to denote textile floor coverings.1 The carpet product category
includes all types of carpet and rugs, regardless of the weave used in construction. By definition, a rug
is a carpet that is cut into room or area dimensions and is not affixed to the underlying substrate.
However, no differentiation will be made here between carpet and rugs.1 Available sales and production
data are based on combined information on carpet and rugs.2,3
To Include all relevant Information with respect to Indoor air quality, products that are integral
components of carpet applications must be discussed along with carpet. These products include carpet
backing, backing lattices, carpet cushions, and special finishing treatments such as stain guard
Adhesives used to apply carpet in "glue-down'' applications, (i.e., where a carpet or carpet cushion is
glued directly to the floor) are not discussed in detail here, but are presented in Section 5.0, Adhesives,
where more detail can be found. Each of these components can influence the impact that carpet has on
indoor air quality.4 A carpet, its associated components, and the method of installation may be referred
to as a carpet system.
4.1.1 Product Classification
Six primary compositional elements are used in the manufacture of carpet: face fiber, primary
backing, latex, secondary backing, dye/colorant, and topical treatment. Using these basic elements,
many different materials and processes are combined to produce the range of carpet products that are
available in the current market.5 Figure 4-1 presents a classification of carpet systems, that is based on
the major compositional elements, with the type of yarn (face fiber) being the primary component. This
classification system is similar to the Census of Manufactures SIC system, which also presents
information on carpet value and quantity based on the type of face fiber.2
Other factors also contributed to the development of this classification. First, synthetic fibers are
manufactured from assorted chemical feedstocks and intermediates and, therefore, may have the
potential to emit residuals of these chemicals.6 Additionally, individual fibers have variable affinities for
the chemicals typically used in dyeing and finishing treatments.7,8 Residual chemicals that remain after
dyeing and finishing treatments are a!so potential sources of emissions.9 The potential contributions to
indoor air emissions vary between carpets that have different face fibers and that receive different
treatments, dyes, and finishing agents.
4-1
-------
I.
SYNTHETIC FIBER CARPETS
A. Common fiber processing and finishing treatments
1. Stain resistance
2. Soil release (e.g., fluorocarbons)
3. Antimicrobial treatment
II.
WOOL FIBER CARPETS
A. Common fiber processing and finishing treatments
1. Soil release (e.g., fluorocarbons)
2. Insect repellent (e.g., moth-proofing)
III.
BACKINGS AND BACKING LATTICES
A. Polypropylene
B. Jute
C. Latex (e.g., SBR-formu!ated latex)
IV.
CUSHION MATERIALS
A. Bonded urethane
B. Prime urethane
C. Others
Figure 4-1. Classification of Carpet by Major Components
4-2
-------
Another reason for classifying carpet using face fiber as the primary component is that various
fibers possess unique properties for wear and appearance. As a result, some fibers are more popular
than others for specific situations (e.g., residential versus commercial versus outdoor applications).2,10,11
Carpet sales reflect the differences in carpet performance and consumer preference associated with
various face fibers (see Section 4.1.3).2
A third reason for using face fibers to classify carpet is that any face fiber may be used with a
variety of backings, backing lattices, and cushions. The components of fiber, finishing treatment, and
backing were identified in the EPA Carpet Policy Dialogue (discussed in Section 4.3) as the materials
possibly having the most relevance to potential VOC emissions from carpet, although that assertion is
not universally supported.4,12 Therefore, the type of face fiber, especially in combination with
component products, may have great potential to influence indoor air emissions. However, other
factors, such as the type of construction (e.g., tufted carpet versus woven; see Section 4.1.3) may also
affect emission potential.
4.1.2 Product Major Uses
Approximately 67% of the carpet produced annually in the United States is used as floor
covering in residential settings, Including hotels and motels.1,13 Most of the remaining carpet that is
produced is used in commercial applications, such as offices, institutions, and retail establishments.1
Most residential carpet is installed using the "stretched-in" method -- that is, wood strip tacking and
staples are applied at the carpet edges.13 Commercial carpet is usually glued down, most commonly
with a multipurpose adhesive (see Section 5.0).5,13 Also, a small amount of carpet is used for outdoor
applications, and in automobiles, boats, and aircraft.2 Table 4-1 presents the usage of the most
common components of carpet systems.
4.1.3 Sales arid Production
Information on carpet sales and volume data was obtained from the Bureau of the Census
reports, trade journals, and telephone conversations with representatives of the carpet industry.2"•1•-,'17
United States sales of all types of carpet totalled $8.55 billion in 1990, which represents a drop from
$8.62 billion in 1989.2,17 The 1990 sales comprised 1.3450 billion square yards of carpet shipments,
which is up from 1.3180 billion square yards in 1989. Nonetheless, the carpet industry has grown
dramatically over the past decade, with sales rising from $5.10 billion in 1979.2
Even though carpet sales have climbed steadily over the previous decade, the number of carpet
mills has declined dramatically. In 1980, there were approximately 300 U.S. mills: in 1990 there were
4-3
-------
Table 4-1
Usage of the Most Common Components of Carpet Systems3
DESCRIPTION
: USAGE {%)
Carpet Fiber3
Nylon
75
Olefin (polypropylene)
16
Polyester
9
Wool
1
Backings6'0
Primary
Polypropylene
99
Jute
1
Secondary
Polypropylene
85-90
Jute
10-15
Latex
d
Amorphous resin
d
Urethane foam
d
PVC hardback
d
Urethane hardback
d
Cushion MateriaJe,f
Bonded urethane''9
56
Prime urethane
33
Rubber
6
Synthetic fibers
3
Rubberized jute
2
Installation Technique
"Stretched-in" or wood strip tackingb,h
67
Glue-downb''
33
a Percentages of fiber represent the market share of carpet produced from these fibers in recent years (Reference 4).
Percentages of other components represent usage.
k References 5, 13, 14.
c Face fibers are secured to the primary backings, and the primary backing is secured to the secondary backing with an SBR
',atex adhesive mat comprises 70 to 80% fille' material, such as chalk. See adhesive chapter for more information.
1:1 Exact percentage of use is unknown. Reference 5 indicates that the market share is small.
e Percentages represent cushions used in residential and commercial applications.
' Refe'ences 5, 16.
9 Bonded urethane scraps usually are held together by an adhesive called "poiyol,' which contains toluene diisocyanate (7DI)
^ Most common in residential applications (includes homes, hotels, and motels).
1 Most common in commercial applications. SBR latex is the most common binder used in the formulation of ca'pet
adhesives.
4-4
-------
about 125.17 To some degree, the decline in the number of carpet mills over the past decade may have
been induced by a decrease in the profit margin of the industry, which has been influenced by several
factors, including: (1) increases in the face weight of finished carpet,17 (2) sharp rises In the cost of raw
materials,17 and (3) no corresponding increases in carpet wholesale prices to compensate for the
increases in production cost.17
Nylon is the most versatile and popular of the synthetic fibers used for carpet yarns, and it
accounts for approximately 75% of all face fiber used in carpet construction.2,4,7,10 Polypropylene (an
olefin derivative) is the second most common fiber and accounts for 16% of yarn used to produce
carpet, and is followed by polyester at 9%.13 In the United States, wool face fibers are used in only 1%
or less of the carpet produced annually (see Table 4-1).13
The Current Industrial Reports present all carpet sales, production, and usage data in terms of
the method of carpet construction.2 Various construction methods, including tufting, weaving, knitting,
braiding and others, can be used to make carpet from any type of face fiber.
The most prevalent method of carpet construction is tufting. Tufted carpet is constructed by
inserting yarn into a backing material, such as woven polypropylene or jute. The resulting loops of pile
are anchored to the backing by coating the backs of the loops with a layer of latex, which is called the
backcoat. Often, a secondary backing material (usually woven polypropylene or jute) is adhered to the
primary backing with another coat of latex (Figure 4-2). The secondary backing adds dimensional
stability to the carpet.
In some tufted carpet, however, no secondary backing material is applied. Rather, a heavier or
thicker coat of SBR latex is applied to the outside of the primary backing and allowed to dry. This
thicker backcoat then serves as the only form of secondary backing. This type of construction is known
as a "unitary" backing (Figure 4-3). Unitary-backed carpet is usually used in commercial, direct glue-
down applications.
Another type of carpet - woven carpet - is constructed by weaving the surface yarns and
backing material together. Woven carpets include velvet, Wilton, and Axminster weaves. It is the
particular configuration of the weave that results in the variety of types. Woven carpet is the most
dimensionaliy stable of all constructions and has the best wear qualities. Because of its wear qualities,
woven carpet is often preferred for heavy traffic areas.11
4-5
-------
Face Fiber
Primary Backing
Latex Backcoat
p
. •«??; „ sr \ ^.- .s
Jii{j5i-^ij£^2jyg(Bj55{SS2SiSSSS5i£23Ci4^i—-_™BSSES^jMji
Secondary Backing
Adhesive (in glue-down applications)
Figure 4-2. Structural Components of Tufted Carpet with Primary and
Secondary Backings
Face Fiber
Primary Backing
\
\
Latex Backcoat
(functions as secondary
backing)
Adhesive (In glue-down applications)
Figure 4-3. Structural Components of Tufted Carpet with Unitary Backing
4-6
-------
The remainder of the carpet market is comprised of a variety of carpet types, all of which vary in
their methods of construction. These types include knitted, needle-punched, felt, braided, and hooked
carpet.
Different carpet constructions and installation techniques may have different potentials for indoor
air emissions. For example, tufted carpet requires the use of latex backcoating to secure the fibers to
the primary backing and to laminate the secondary backing to the primary. Backcoating Is not required
to secure the face fibers to the backing material in other types of carpet. Therefore, the use of latex
backcoating on tufted carpet may increase its indoor air emission potential as compared to the
potentials of carpets that do not require backcoating. The emission potential of carpet is further
influenced by the method of installation. For example, carpet used in commercial applications is often
glued down. The use of adhesives to affix carpet to subflooring increases its potential to emit. These
examples indicate that potential indoor air emissions increase as greater amounts of latex and adhesive
are used in carpet construction and installation.
There are large differences in the sales and usage of the different types of carpet. Thus, some
types of carpet are more prevalent in indoor environments. Table 4-2 presents carpet consumption data
from 1989, as well as values for the various construction types in that year. Tufted carpet, by far, holds
the largest share of the carpet market. Tufted carpet has comprised 90% or more of the market since
1974.11 Consumption of tufted carpet in 1989 was 1.2327 billion square yards, or 94% of all carpet used
in the United States 2 Consumption of woven carpet in 1989 was 23.8 million square yards, or
approximately 2% of all carpet shipments in the United States.2 Consumption of all other carpet types in
1989 was 61.2 million square yards, or 5% of all carpet used in the United States. Clearly, tufted carpet
has a greater potential to affect indoor air environments than other types of carpet, merely due to its
preference among consumers and prevalence of use.
4.2 Maior Constituents of Concern
Data on the major chemical constituents of the components in carpet systems were obtained
from the literature and, to a lesser extent, from communications with industry representatives. The first
step to identifying the chemical constituents of carpet systems is to develop an understanding of the
manufacturing process of each component. Literature that proved useful in this step included a variety
of EPA reports on Industrial Process Profiles and Source Assessments.7,18"20 In addition to these
reports, numerous papers provided a basic understanding of carpet backcoating technology and fiber
dyeing and finishing treatments.14,21'35
4-7
-------
Table 4-2
1989 Consumption of Carpet and Rugs
SIC
Description
Consumption
Quantity (millions $q yd)
• Value (millions $}
All carpets and rugs
1,317.8
8.431.1
22731
Woven carpets and rugs
23.8
299.0
22732
Tufted carpets and rugs
1,232.7
7,932.8
22733
Other carpets and rugs
61.2
199.3
Source: Reference 2.
The chemical constituents identified for carpet components from available studies do not
represent complete lists of constituents. Difficulties encountered in attempting to identify the chemical
constituents include a large volume of literature to evaluate and the presence of outdated data-many of
the references that identified chemical constituents are 10 or more years old. Few references provided
information on specific formulations for chemical treatments or product manufacture and the
formulations of dyes, fiber treatments, and adhesives likely have changed since these references were
published. Further, many formulations are guarded trade secrets and manufacturers are hesitant to
release specific, up-to-date information due to market competition.
It is likely that more specific chemical constituent information is available in U.S. patents.10 34 If
patent numbers can be obtained, the specific formulation of a product can be located In the patent.
Searching patents without a patent number, however, can be laborious and time-consuming.36
As the carpet industry evolves, new materials may be introduced into the manufacturing of any
carpet component and this would influence potential emissions. For example, one new development in
the carpet industry is the use of a bulked continuous filament yarn, called polybutylene terephthalate
or
(PBT). A manufacturing process for PBT yam was recently patented As a yarn, PBT is highly
versatile and has properties that are similar to those of nylon. The developers of PBT yarn will have to
compete with nylon as a carpet fiber, as well as a fiber for the apparel industry.35
The PBT polymer is manufactured by using either dimethyl terephthalate and butanediol (BD), or
by using pure terephthalic acid with BD in an esterification reaction. During this process, BD engages in
4-8
-------
a side reaction that generates tetrahydrofuran (THF). Most of the THF can be recovered and sold as a
relatively pure byproduct,35 but residual THF may remain in the fiber and become a potential source of
indoor air contamination. However, PBT can be dyed at atmospheric pressure, which enables dyeing
without the use of chemicals commonly used as dye carriers (e.g., biphenyl, chlorobenzenes, and
methyl and dimethyl phthalates) for other face fibers. Residuals of these chemicals also may remain in
the finished carpet fibers and could contribute to indoor air contamination. Therefore, the decreased use
of toxic substances during the manufacturing of PBT might result In decreased indoor air emissions from
the finished carpet products.
4.3 Emissions Information
Most carpet emissions data obtained come from environmental chamber studies using gas
chromatography/mass spectrometry analysis. Headspace studies are the second most common source
of emissions data. Most of the emissions studies have involved tests on carpet combined with the
associated components of carpet systems; carpet systems subjected to emission tests have sometimes
included the adhesives used in glue-down applications, as well as the underlayment.
Typical chamber test parameters specify temperature at 25°C, relative humidity at 48 to 52%,
and one air change per hour. The time frame for test periods has been the most variable parameter,
encompassing from 1 hour to several weeks; however, this has provided insight into the potential of
carpet as a short-term and long-term emission source.
One encumbering aspect of the published literature on carpet emissions is the lack of specificity
or description of the materials that have been tested. For Instance, some publications fail to identify the
type of face fiber, the type of primary and secondary backing, the type of adhesive, or the type of
cushion. Sometimes carpet samples are merely referred to as "carpet" with no other qualifier.37,38 This
lack of specificity and detail makes it difficult to determine the relative contributions of the components
of the carpet systems.
One fairly specific emission study involved tests of a carpet tile applied to a concrete
underlayment with an adhesive.32 The carpet tiles used in this study had been in an office building for
2 years. They were made of an unspecified face fiber and finishing treatment, but we re PVC-backed and
installed on a concrete underlayment using an unspecified adhesive. It was known that the PVC
backings of these carpet tiles contained plasticizers composed of 2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DOP) and
di-heptyl nonyl phthalate (Santicizer 790). The plasticizer formulation also contained an alkaline
component of calcium oxide.
4-9
-------
The carpet tiles (called the Oregon sample) were tested with and without adhesive on concrete
underlayment using a headspace apparatus. A second control sample was a "similar" carpet tile that
had been installed In a different location, but which had produced no complaints after 6 years. Whether
the control carpet had been installed using an adhesive on concrete was not revealed in the study. The
plasticizers in the backings of the control samples were di-nonyl phthalate, diisohexyl phthalate, and
DOP. The results of the headspace analysis Indicated that the use of the adhesive increased the off-
gassing of alcohols by 20% in the Oregon sample and 180% in the control sample. The release of the
alcohols was a result of the hydrolysis of the plasticizers in the carpet backings. Evidently, this
hydrolysis was facilitated by the adhesive and perhaps, to a lesser degree, by the alkalinity of the
concrete. Two of the alcohols emitted in this study, 2-ethyl-l-hexanol and n-hexanol, were also prevalent
in four buildings studied by the EPA.
Several papers have been published on whole-building or whole-room studies.33'43 Although
carpet is potentially a contributor to the concentrations of emissions found in these studies, the
contribution from carpet cannot be separated from the other products and furnishings found in rooms or
houses, such as wall coverings, paints, and furniture.
Other studies have indicated that the compound 4-phenylcyclohexene (4-PCH) is responsible for
new carpet odor.5,44 Styrene and butadiene are components of SBR latex, which is the most common
binding component used in latex carpet backing and multipurpose carpet adhesives. The compound
4-PCH is produced during polymerization of SBR latex In a Diels-Alder reaction between styrene and
butadiene. The production of 4-PCH can take place even after a carpet is installed. The human toxicity,
if any, of 4-PCH has not been established.38,45
Further influence on indoor air emissions from the components of carpet systems can be
deduced from the available information. In glue-down applications, there is a potential for higher
emissions, as compared to tufted carpets applied by the stretched-in method, due to the use of SBR
latex backings and SBR-formulated adhesives in the glued-down applications. Another carpet system
component, bonded polyurethane (used for cushions), may increase potentially harmful emissions, due
to the use of toluene diisocyanate (TDI) - a component of the adhesive most commonly used to bond
the cushion material together (Table 4-1).
An endeavor that has produced much useful Information Is a cooperative movement between
the EPA and the Carpet and Rug Institute called the Carpet Policy Dialogue 4,5,9 The Carpet Policy
Dialogue is EPA's forum to encourage voluntary industry actions to reduce total VOC emissions from
carpet, carpet cushions, and carpet adhesives. The Dialogue includes representatives from industry,
4-10
-------
public Interest groups, labor, other government agencies, and the scientific community. The goal of the
Dialogue is to develop guidelines for systematic and standardized small chamber tests on a number of
carpet systems to evaluate VOC emission rates. When the testing is completed, the results of the tests
will be published and made available to the public.5
4.4 Data Tables
The following data tables summarize information identified in the literature relating to the carpet
product category. Only VOCs are presented in these data tables; components such as nonvolatile inert
ingredients, fillers, and inorganics that may be constituents of a product are not included. Each VOC is
identified as a constituent or an emission. In many cases, compounds were identified in the literature as
constituents, but had not specifically been identified through emissions testing. In addition, a few
compounds were identified as being emitted from a product, but not listed as a constituent. In these
cases, emissions may be the result of a chemical reaction within the product.
Emission rates are presented for those compounds that were identified in the literature as being
emitted. These rates are presented as ranges where multiple emission rates were identified.
Chemicals that are hazardous air pollutants (as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended in
November, 1990), carcinogens, or which have a threshold limit value established are designated by an
"H", "C", or "T", respectively, in the column following the chemical.
Full reference citations for all information presented in the tables are included at the end of the
section. The appendix at the end of this section presents additional information, where available,
concerning test conditions for literature cited.
The tables include active and volatile inert carpet product constituent data and emissions data
that were obtained from references, contacts, and label inventories.
4-11
-------
ORGANIZATION OF DATA TABLES
SYNTHETIC FIBER CARPET
Nylon Face Fiber 4-13
Nylon and Olefin Blend Face Fiber 4-20
Polypropylene Face Fiber 4-22
Acrylic Face Fiber 4-24
NATURAL FIBER CARPET
Wool Face Fiber 4-25
UNSPECIFIED FACE FIBER 4-25
BACKINGS
Primary 4-30
Secondary 4-31
CARPET CUSHION 4-32
CARPET TILES 4-34
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES 4-38
4-12
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Face Fiber, Nylon
SIC 2273 SIC 22732-11
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09 sq. yd. Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average Min Max Units
SUBPRODUCT: Nylon carpet with stain guard
Aliphatic Sulfonic Acids
X
10
Benzaldehyde
100-52-7
X
10
Bisphenol
80-05-7
X
10
Chlorosulphonic Acid
X
10
Cresol
H,T
1319-77-3
X
10
Cyclohexane Sulfonic Acid
X
10
Cyclopentane Sulfonic Acid
X
10
Dihydroxydiphenylsulfone
X
10
Formaldehyde
C.H.T
50-00-0
X
10
Furfuraldehyde
T
98-01-1
X
10
Monothiobisphenols
X
10
Naphthol
90-15-3
X
10
Oligomeric Thiophenols
X
10
Phenol
H.T
108-95-2
X
10
Polymeric Alcohol Sulfonic Acids
X
10
Resorcinol
T
108-46-3
X
10 I
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Face Fiber, Nylon
SIC 2273 SIC 22732-11
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09 sq. yd. Usage/Sales ND
I
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Mln
Max
Units
Ref
Formaldehyde
C.H.T
50-00-0
0.01
ppm*
49
SUBPRODUCT: Polypropylene primary bad
king; urethane secondary backing; 'low VOC' adhesive
1,2,4-Trimethylbenzene
95-63-6
NQ
ug/m2-hr
48
2,6-Di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol
T
128-37-0
NQ
48
Methylisopropylcyclohexane
NQ
ug/m2-hr
48
Octamethyl Cyclotetrasiloxane
556-67-2
NQ
ug/m2-hr
48
Vinylmethylbenzene
NQ
ug/m2-hr
48
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
241
111
411
ug/m2-hr
48
SUBPRODUCT: Polypropylene primary backing; urethane secondary backing; 'low VOC' adhesive; seam sealant
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
188
171
214
ug/m3*
48
SUBPRODUCT: Nylon carpet with polyprop
ylene primary backing, urethane secondar
(backing
1,2-Dichlorobenzene
T
95-50-1
NQ
48
2,6-Di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol
T
128-37-0
NQ
48
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
41
6
98
ug/m2-hr
48
SUBPRODUCT: SBR latex backcoating
4-Phenylcyclohexene
107
64
150
ug/m2-hr
47
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
193
71
315
ug/m2-hr
47
SUBPRODUCT: Neoprene cushion
Formaldehyde
C.H.T
50-00-0
90.25
50
159
ug/m2-hr
50
Formaldehyde
C.H.T
50-00-0
0.076
0.055
0.097
ppm*
50
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
*This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Face Fiber, Nylon
SIC 2273 SIC 22732-11
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09 sq. yd. Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average Min Max Units
SUBPRODUCT: Nylon carpet with polyprop
ylene primary and secondary backings; SBR latex backcoating; static control treatment
4-Ethenylcyclohexene
0.07
ppb*
56
4-Phenylcyclohexene
1.91
0.14
3.1
ppb*
56
C5 Aldehydes
0.94
0.28
1.6
ppb*
56
C6 Aldehydes
2.56
0.51
4.6
ppb*
56
C7 Aldehydes
3.8
1.0
6.6
ppb*
56
C8 Aldehydes
1.73
0.55
2.9
ppb*
56
C9 Aldehydes
3.5
2.2
4.8
ppb*
56
C10 Aldehydes
0.29
0.14
0.44
ppb*
56
Styrene
H,T
100-42-5
0.28
0.21
0.35
ppb*
56
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
46
22
84
ugC/m3**
56
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
*This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
**During thermal desorption, approximately 8 percent of each VOC sample were separated and analyzed without GC by a flame ionization detector.
This produces a measure of total C over a boiling-point range encompassing approximately C3-C14 hydrocarbons. The results were reported
as a mass of carbon.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Face Fiber, Nylon
SIC 2273 SIC 22732-11
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09 sq. yd. Usage/Sales ND
I
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Chemical/Compound
Average Min Max Units
SUBPRODUCT: Nylon carpet with polyprop
ylene primary and secondary backings; SBR latex backcoating; static control treatment
4-Ethenylcyclohexene
ND
0.5
7.6
ug/m2-hr
6
4-Phenylcyclohexene
ND
46.1
87.4
ug/m2-hr
6
C2 Alkylbenzenes
ND
3.8
6.9
6
Styrene
H,T
100-42-5
ND
1.8
36.7
ug/m2-hr
6
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
ND
36.2
222.6
ug/m2-hr
6 I
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Face Fiber, Nylon
SIC 2273 SIC 22732-11
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09 sq. yd. Usage/Sales ND
I
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Chemical/Compound
Average Mln Max | Units
SUBPRODUCT: Nylon carpet with polyprop]
scotchguard and antimicrobial treatments
flene primary backing; polyv
nyl chloride secondary backing;
1,2-Propanediol
ND
152.7
757.5
ug/m2-hr
6
2,2,4-T rimethylpentane
ND
18.5
67.7
ug/m2-hr
6
2-Ethyl-1-hexanol
104-76-7
ND
20.6
58.6
ug/m2-hr
6
Acetaldehyde
H,T
75-07-0
ND
4.6
26.7
ug/m2-hr
6
Formaldehyde
C.H.T
50-00-0
ND
18.2
57.2
ug/m2-hr
6
Methyl Acetate
ND
0.6
1
ug/m2-hr
6
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
ND
143.6
625.5
ug/m2-hr
6
Vinyl Acetate
H.T
108-05-4
ND
82.8
894.5
ug/m2-hr
6
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet
SIC 2273
Usage/Sales 1 35E+09 sq. yd.
Product Face Fiber, Nylon
SIC 22732-11
Usage/Sales ND
I
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Mln
Max
Units
Ref
SUBPRODUCT: Nylon carpet; polypropylene primary backing; polyurethane secondar
/ backing
4-Ethenylcyclohexene
4.6
1
8.2
ppm*
56
Acetaldehyde
H.T
75-07-0
1.4
ppm*
56
Formaldehyde
C.H.T
50-00-0
0.8
0.5
1.3
ppm*
56
C5 Aldehyde
0.23
0.09
0.54
ppm*
56
C6 Aldehyde
0.79
0.2
1.5
ppm*
56
C7 Aldehyde
0.96
0.3
1.7
ppm*
56
C8 Aldehyde
0.51
0.25
0.86
ppm*
56
C9 Aldehyde
0.81
0.33
1.4
ppm*
56
C10 Aldehyde
0.15
0.03
0.3
ppm*
56
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
15.8
9.1
30
ugC/m3**
56 |
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
*This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
"During thermal desorption, approximately 8 percent of each VOC sample were separated and analyzed without GC by a flame ionization detector.
This produces a measure of total C over a boiling-point range encompassing approximately C3-C14 hydrocarbons. The results were reported
as a mass of carbon.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Face Fiber, Nylon
SIC 2273 SIC 22732-11
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09 sq. yd. Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref [
Average
Min Max Units
SUBPRODUCT: Nylon carpet; polypropylene primary backing; polyurethane secondar
/ backing |
1,2-Dichlorobenzene
T
95-50-1
ND
1.5
11.2
ug/m2-hr
6 I
1-Butanol
T
71-36-3
ND
4.6
28.5
ug/m2-hr
6
2,6-Di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol
T
128-37-0
ND
164.9
234.5
ug/m2-hr
6
Dipropylene Glycol Methyl Ether
T
34590-94-8
ND
14.3
27.1
ug/m2-hr
6
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
ND
20
108.3
ug/m2-hr
6 I
SUBPRODUCT: Nylon carpet with SBR latex secondary backing \
4-Phenylcyclohexene
113
32
320
ug/m2-hr
6 !
Styrene
10
2
28
ug/m2-hr
6 I
SUBPRODUCT: Nylon carpet, polypropylene primary and secondary backings; stain and soil resistance treatment
Total Volatile Organic Compounds 425 71 779 ug/m2-hr 9
SUBPRODUCT: Nylon carpet; jute primary backing
1 -Methylnapthalene
NQ
51
2-Methylnaphthalene
NQ
51
3-Phenylcyclohexene
NQ
51
Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
NQ
51
Alkylbenzenes
H,T
75-07-0
NQ
51
Decane
124-18-5
NQ
51
Dichlorobenzene
NQ
51
Naphthalene
NQ
51
Nonanol
NQ
51
Styrene
H.T
100-42-5
NQ
51
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Face Fiber, Nylon and Olefin Blend
SIC 2273
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09 sq. yd. Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average | Mln | Max Units
SUBPRODUCT: 75%/25% olefin/nylon carpet; polypropylene primary an c
secondary backings; SBR latex backcoating
4-Ethenylcyclohexene
0.19
0.09
0.27
ppm*
56
4-Phenylcyclohexene
2.5
1.3
3.9
ppm*
56
Acetaldehyde
H.T
75-07-0
1.8
0.2
3.6
ppm*
56
C5 Aldehydes
0.64
0.11
0.94
ppm*
56
C6 Aldehydes
1.3
0.1
2
ppm*
56
C7 Aldehydes
2.26
0.19
3.4
ppm*
56
C8 Aldehydes
0.52
0.06
0.8
ppm*
56
C9 Aldehydes
3.12
0.76
4.5
ppm*
56
C10 Aldehydes
0.12
0.09
0.14
ppm*
56
Formaldehyde
C.H.T
50-00-0
1.82
0.98
2.8
ppm*
56
Styrene
H.T
100-42-5
1.05
0.61
1.6
ppm*
56
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
49
28
70
ugC/m3**
56
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
*This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
"During thermal desorption, approximately 8 percent of each VOC sample were separated and analyzed without GC by a flame ionization detector.
This produces a measure of total C over a boiling-point range encompassing approximately C3-C14 hydrocarbons. The results were reported
as a mass of carbon.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Face Fiber, Nylon and Olefin Blend
SIC 2273
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09sq. yd. Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref |
Average | Min Max Units
SUBPRODUCT: 75%/25% olefin/nylon carpet; polypropylene primary arte
secondary backings; SBR latex backcoating \
4-Ethenylcyclohexene
ND
2.6
24.2
ug/m2-hr
6
4-Phenylcyclohexene
ND
48.3
81.9
ug/m2-hr
6
Alkylbenzenes
H.T
75-07-0
ND
2.9
12.4
ug/m2-hr
6
Styrene
ND
15.5
260
ug/m2-hr
6
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
ND
79.8
399
ug/m2-hr
6
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Face Fiber, Polypropylene
SIC 2273 SIC 22732-19
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09 sq. yd. Usage/Sales NO
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Mln
Max
Units
1,2,3-T rimethy Ibenzene
95-63-6
ND
0.027
0.13
ug/m2-hr
53
1,2,4-T rimethy Ibenzene
95-63-6
ND
0.063
1.2
ug/m2-hr
53
1,3,5-Trimethylbenzene
108-67-8
1.5
ug/m2-hr
53
Benzene
C.H.T
71-43-2
0.92
ug/m2-hr
53
Cyclohexylbenzene
NQ
53
Ethylbenzene
H.T
100-41-4
0.05
ug/m2-hr
53
Isopropylbenzene
T
98-82-8
0.17
ug/m2-hr
53
m-Ethyltoluene
2.1
ug/m2-hr
53
m,p-Xylene
H.T
0.41
ug/m2-hr
53
n-Decane
124-18-5
ND
0.23
11
ug/m2-hr
53
n-Dodecane
112-40-3
ND
4
6.4
ug/m2-hr
53
n-Propylbenzene
103-65-1
0.49
ug/m2-hr
53
n-Undecane
1120-21-4
ND
7.1
12
ug/m2-hr
53
o-Ethyltoluene
611-14-3
1.1
ug/m2-hr
53
o-Xylene
H.T
95-47-6
ND
0.37
0.83
ug/m2-hr
53
p-Dichlorobenzene
106-46-7
0.18
ug/m2-hr
53
Styrene
H.T
100-42-5
0.1
ug/m2-hr
53 |
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Face Fiber, Polypropylene
SIC 2273 SIC 22732-19
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09 sq. yd. Usage/Sales ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Mln
Max
Units
Ref
SUBPRODUCT: Foam backing with self-stick adhesive
Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
NQ
51
Alkylbenzene
H.T
75-07-0
NQ
51
T rimethylcyclohexane
NQ
51
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND-No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Face Fiber, Acrylic
SIC 2273 SIC 22732-19
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09 sq. yd. Usage/Sales ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Mln
Max
Units
Ref
SUBPRODUCT: Foam backing, type unspecified
1 -Methylnaphthalene
90-12-0
NQ
51
2-Methylnaphthalene
91-57-6
NQ
51
Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
NQ
51
Biphenyl
T
92-52-4
NQ
51
Naphthalene
H.T
91-20-3
NQ
51
Phenol
H.T
108-95-2
NQ
51
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Face Fiber, Wool
SIC 2273 SIC 22732-19
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09 sq. yd. Usage/Sales NO
j Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Camphechlor
X
8
Chlorphenylid
X
8
Cyfluthrin
X
8
Dieldrin
60-57-1
X
8
Dioxins
C
X
8
Furans
110-00-9
X
8
Lindane
H,T
58-89-9
X
8
Organophosphates
X
8
Permethrin
52645-53-1
X
8
Synthetic Pyrethroids
X
8
Toxaphene
H.T
8001-35-2
X
8
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Face Fiber, Unspecified
SIC 2273 SIC
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09 sq. yd. Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Mln
Max
Units
1,1,1 -T richloroethane
H,T
71-55-6
NQ
46
1,1 -Biphenol-4-amine
NQ
46
1,2,4-Benzene Tricarboxylic Acid
NQ
37
1,2-Dichloroethane
107-06-2
NQ
37
2-Methylbenzothiazole
NQ
46
2-Propanone
T
67-64-1
NQ
37
Acetic Acid
T
64-19-7
NQ
37
Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
NQ
51
Benzene
C.H.T
71-43-2
NQ
37,46
Benzylbutylphthalate
NQ
46
Butyl Acetate
T
123-86-4
NQ
37
Butylcyclohexylphthalate
NQ
46
Chloroform
C.H.T
67-66-3
NQ
37
Decane
124-18-5
NQ
37
Ethanol
T
64-17-5
NQ
46
Ethyl Acetate
T
141-78-6
NQ
46
Ethylbenzene
H.T
100-41-4
NQ
46
Heptadecane
629-78-7
NQ
37
Hexadecane
544-76-3
NQ
46
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Face Fiber, Unspecified
SIC 2273 SIC
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09 sq. yd. Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Hexadecanoic Acid
57-10-3
NQ
37
Methylene Chloride
C.H.T
75-09-2
NQ
46
n-Methylacetamide
79-16-3
NQ
37
n-Nonane
NQ
51
n-Octane
NQ
51
Octadecane
593-45-3
NQ
46
Octane
T
111-65-9
NQ
37
Phenol
H.T
108-95-2
NQ
46
Propylcyclohexane
NQ
37
p-Dichlorobenzene
106-46-7
NQ
46
Tetrachloroethane
H.T
79-34-5
NQ
37
Toluene
H,T
108-88-3
NQ
37,46
Trichloroethane
H.T
79-01-6
NQ
46
Xylene
H,T
1330-20-7
NQ
37 |
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Face Fiber, Unspecified
SIC 2273 SIC 2273
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09 sq. yd. Usage/Sales ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max
Units
Ref
SUBPRODUCT: SBR latex back, SBR foam cushion
4-Phenylcyclohexene
NQ
44
4-Vinylcyclohexene
100-40-3
NQ
44
Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
NQ
44
Diethylamine
T
109-89-7
NQ
44
Formaldehyde
C.H.T
50-00-0
NQ
44
Styrene
H.T
100-42-5
NQ
44
Toluene
H.T
108-88-3
NQ
44
Xylene
H.T
1330-20-7
NQ
44
SUBPRODUCT: Backing, type unspecified
Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
NQ
51
n-Nonane
T
111-84-2
NQ
51
n-Octane
T
111-65-9
NQ
51
SUBPRODUCT: Cushion, type unspecified;
particleboard underlayment
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
0.549
ug/m2-hr
12
SUBPRODUCT: Cushion, type unspecified; concrete underlayment
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
ND
136
776
ug/m2-hr
12
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Face Fiber, Unspecified
SIC 2273 SIC
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09sq. yd. Usage/Sales ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Mln
Max
Units
Ref
SUBPRODUCT: Foam backing, type unspecified
Formaldehyde
C.H.T
50-00-0
24.67
0
65
ug/m2-day
52
SUBPRODUCT: Glued to plywood
1,1,1 -T richloroethane
H.T
71-55-6
22
19.4
24.6
ug/m3*
55
1,2-Dichloroethane
107-06-2
15
14
16
ug/m3*
55
Ethylbenzene
H.T
100-41-4
6.4
3.2
9.6
ug/m3*
55
n-Decane
124-18-5
46
33
59
ug/m3*
55
n-Undecane
1120-21-4
42
30
54
ug/m3*
55
o-Xylene
8.5
6.2
10.8
ug/m3*
55
p-Dichlorobenzene
106-46-7
3.5
2.3
4.7
ug/m3*
55
p-Xylene
106-42-3
13
10.9
15.1
ug/m3*
55
Styrene
H,T
100-42-5
8.4
7.2
9.6
ug/m3*
55
SUBPRODUCT: SBR latex backcoating; multi-purpose latex adhesive; concrete underlayment
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
ND
88300
153000
ug/m2-hr
12
SUBPRODUCT: SBR latex backcoating; multi-purpose latex adhesive; cushion, type unspecified; concrete underlayment
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
145000
ug/m2-hr
12 |
SUBPRODUCT: SBR latex backcoating;"low VOC" latex adhesive; concrete underlayment |
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
783
ug/m2-hr
12 |
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
*This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Primary Backing Latex
SIC 2273
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09 sq. yd. Usage/Sales ND
I
Emissions Data
I
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Mln
Max
Units
Ref
Butadiene
H.T
106-99-0
X
54
Styrene
H.T
100-42-5
X
54 |
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Secondary Backing Latex
SIC 2273
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09sq. yd. Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Butadiene
H.T
106-99-0
X
54
Styrene
H,T
100-42-5
X
54
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Carpet Cushion
SIC 2273
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09 sq. yd. Usage/Sales ND
Emissions Data
Chemical
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
| Mln
Max
Units
Ref
SUBPRODUCT: Flat rubber cushion
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
5735
3360
8110
ug/m2-hr
9
SUBPRODUCT: Hair and jute cushion
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
126
12
240
ug/m2-hr
9
SUBPRODUCT: Polyurethane rebond cushion
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
91
59
123
ug/m2-hr
9
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Carpet Cushion, Unspecified
SIC 2273
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09 sq. yd. Usage/Sales ND
I
Emissions Data
j
I Chemical
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max
Units
Ref I
|jTotal Volatile Organic Compounds
ND
59
8110
ug/m2-hr
12 I
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Carpet Tiles
SIC 2273 SIC 23990-95
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09 sq. yd. Usage/Sales ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max
Units
Ref
SUBPRODUCT: PVC backing plasticizer
2-Ethylhexyl Phthalate
117-81-7
X
32
Diisohexyl Phthalate
X
32
Di-Heptyl Nonyl Phthalate
X
32
Di-Nonyl Phthalate
84-76-4
X
32 |
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Carpet Tiles
SIC 2273 SIC 23990-95
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09 sq. yd. Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average Min Max Units
SUBPRODUCT: Nylon carpet; polypropylene primary back
scotchguard and antimicrobial treatments
'ng; polyvinyl chloride secondary backing;
Acetaldehyde
H,T
75-07-0
4.6
ppb*
56
Butylated Hydroxytoluene
0.37
0.06
0.67
Ppb*
56
C5 Aldehydes
0.26
0.23
0.28
ppb*
56
C6 Aldehydes
0.80
0.78
0.81
ppb*
56
C7 Aldehydes
1.16
0.92
1.4
ppb*
56
C8 Aldehydes
0.11
0.1
0.12
ppb*
56
C9 Aldehydes
1.35
1.2
1.5
ppb*
56
C10 Aldehydes
0.09
ppb*
56
Formaldehyde
C.H.T
50-00-0
6.4
4.6
8.1
ppb*
56
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
62.5
62
63
ugC/m3**
56
Vinyl Acetate
H.T
108-05-4
5.6
4.8
6.3
ppb*
56 |
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
*This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
**During thermal desorption, approximately 8 percent of each VOC sample were separated and analyzed without GC by a flame ionization detector.
This produces a measure of total C over a boiling-point range encompassing approximately C3-C14 hydrocarbons. The results were reported
as a mass of carbon.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Carpet Tiles
SIC 2273 SIC 23990-95
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09 sq. yd. Usage/Sales ND
I
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
1
Chemical/Compound
Average Mln Max Units
SUBPRODUCT: Nylon carpet; polypropylene primary back
scotchguard and antimicrobial treatments
ng; polyvinyl chloride secondary backing;
Acetaldehyde
H.T
75-07-0
0.89
0.67
1.1
PPb*
56
Butylated Hydroxytoluene
0.62
0.56
0.67
ppb*
56
C9 Aldehydes
0.33
ppb*
56
Formaldehyde
C.H.T
50-00-0
5.5
4.6
6.3
ppb*
56
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
51
35
66
ugC/m3**
56
Vinyl Acetate
H,T
108-05-4
7.8
5.7
9.9
ppb*
56
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
•This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
"During thermal desorption, approximately 8 percent of each VOC sample were separated and analyzed without GC by a flame ionization detector.
This produces a measure of total C over a boiling-point range encompassing approximately C3-C14 hydrocarbons. The results were reported
as a mass of carbon.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Floor Coverings
Chapter Carpet Product Carpet Tiles
SIC 2273 SIC 23990-95
Usage/Sales 1.35E+09sq. yd. Usage/Sales ND
Emissions Data
I
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average Mln Max Units
Ref |
SUBPRODUCT: Carpet tiles with PVC backing, latex adhesive, concrete underlayment
Total Alcohols
180 20 361 ug/10g carpet
32
ND - No data.
-------
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES
Carpet
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Hodgson, A. T. et al., 1992
Chamber Study; Test House
Tenax Tubes
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
45.7
50.7
%
Temp
22.6
23.3
°C
ACH
0.97
1.01 :
Testina Duration
24
1248
hr
Comment: Chamber Study: new carpet aged 2-3 weeks
before chamber study. Test House: new carpet direct from
manufacturer installed in house.
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
IT Environmental Programs
Chamber Study
GC/MS
Value Min
Max
Units
RH
50
%
Temp
25:
0 C
ACH
1.0:
Testing Duration
; 1
144
hr
Comment:
New carpet direct from mill.
12 Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Black, M., et. al., 1991
Chamber Study
Value !
Min
Max ,
Units
RH
48
52
%
Temp
24.8
25.2'
°C
ACH
0.95
1.05
Testina Duration
24
144,
hr
Comment:
4-38
-------
32
37
44
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES
(Continued)
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
McLaughlin and Aigner, 1990
Chamber Study
GC/MS
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
50
%
Temp
37
°C
ACH
Testinq Duration I
2
18
wk
Comment:
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Black and Bayer, 1986
Chamber Study
Thermal Desorption/GC/MS
: ! Value
Min
Max
Units
RH i
%
Temp
°C
;ACH
Testinq Duration
4
hr
Comment:
Reference:
Schroder, 1990
Test Method:
Chamber Study
Sampling Method:
Analysis Method:
GC/MS
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
%
Temp
95
°C
ACH
Testinq Duration
Comment: Emissions measured under reduced
atmospheric pressure 10E-02 Torr. Emissions measurements
not reported.
4-39
-------
46 Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Analysis Method:
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES
(Continued)
Bayer, C., et. al., 1988
Headspace Study; Chamber Study
Thermal Desorption/GC/MS;
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
45 55
%
Temp I
23 27
°C
ACH 1
!
Testina Duration
1 24
hr
Comment: Headspace study: Sample taken after 1 hr.
No RH, temperature or ACH were specified.
Chamber study: Sample taken after 24 hrs.
RH, temperature, and ACH in table are for this method.
47 Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Black, M„ 1990
Chamber Study
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
50
%
Temp
24.8
25.2
°C
ACH
0.95
1.05
Testing Duration
24
hr i
Comment:
are unspecified.
Sampling and analytical methods
48 Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Davidson, J., et. al., 1991
Chamber Study
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
48
52
%
Temp
24.8
25.2
°C
ACH
0.95
1.05
Testing Duration
1
140
hr
Comment:
4-40
-------
49
50
51
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Godish and Kanyer, 1982
Chamber Study
H20 Bubbler
Modified Pararosaniline Method
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES
(Continued)
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
48
56
%
Temp
20
22
°C
ACH
1
Testina Duration
24
i
hr
Comment: Chamber air purified through filter.
Sample collected through bubbler into distilled H20.
Distilled H20 analyzed by modified pararosaniline method.
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Matthews, T., 1984
Test House, Floor Chamber
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
48
52
%
Temp
22
24
°C
ACH
0.2
3
Testina Duration
96
day
Comment
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Timeframe is 0 to 96 days for both test methods.
Miksch, R., et. al., 1982.
Headspace Study
Tenax Cartridges
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
%
Temp
°C
ACH
Testina Duration
Comment:
4-41
-------
52
53
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Pickrell, et. al., 1982
Headspace Study
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES
(Continued)
Value
Min Max
Units
RH
%
Temp
I
°C
ACH
i
Testing Duration
Comment:
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Sheldon, L. et al., 1988
Chamber Study; Headspace
Tenax Tubes
GC/MS
Value
Min I
Max
Units
RH
0!
48
%
Temp
25 i
34
°C
ACH
0.51
11
Testinq Duration
3 i
25
wk
Comment: Chamber Study: Emission values are
measured. Timeframe is 14-25 weeks. Headspace: Emission
values are calculated. Timeframe is 3-6 weeks.
55 Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Wallace, L., et. al., 1987
Chamber Study
Tenax Tubes
Value
Min Max
Units
RH
%
Temp
I
°C
ACH
Testinq Duration
12
hr
Comment:
Emission rates are calculated from
emission concentrations.
4-42
-------
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES
Weschler, C. J. et al., 1992 (Continued)
Chamber Study
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH i
45
55
%
jTemp
22.9
23.5
°C
ACH
1,0
I Testing Duration
167
247
hr
Comment: Samples were taken at 167 hours prior to
03 fumigation, at 194 hours when 03 was present, at 217 hours after
03 depletion, and at 245 hours after refumigation with 03.
4-43
-------
GLOSSARY
ACRYLICS - in the carpet Industry, this refers to acrylic and modacrylic fibers. Acrylic fiber is a polymer
composed of at least 85% by weight of acrylonitrile units. Modacrylic fiber is a polymer composed of
less than 85% but at least 35% by weight of acrylonitrile units. Acrylics come only in staple form and are
noted for their high durability, stain-resistance, and wool-like appearance.
AXMINSTER - One of the basic weaves used in making carpets. The pile tufts in this weave are
mechanically inserted and bound to the back in a manner similar to the hand-knotting of Oriental rugs,
making possible almost unlimited combinations of colors and patterns. See weaving.
BACKING - Material that forms the back of the carpet, regardless of the type of construction.
(1) Primary back: In a tufted carpet, the material to which surface yarns are attached. May be made of
jute, kraftcord, or woven or nonwoven synthetics. (2) Secondary back: Also called "double backing."
Any material (jute, woven or nonwoven synthetics, scrim, foam, or cushion) laminated to the primary
back.
BCF - Bulked continuous filament nylon. The highly bulked fibers have a trilobular or triskelion cross
section, which gives them greater covering power than round, cross-section fibers possess.
BONDED URETHANE CUSHION - A carpet cushion made from trim generated from urethane foam
product manufacture that has been granulated and bonded to form a porous foam material that is
fabricated into foam sheets.
CARPET CUSHION - A term used to describe any kind of material placed under carpet to provide
softness when it is walked on. Not only does carpet cushion provide a softer feel underfoot, it usually
provides added acoustical benefits and longer wear life for the carpet. In some cases the carpet
cushion is attached to the carpet when it is manufactured. Also referred to as "lining," padding," or
"underlay," although "carpet cushion" is the preferred term.
CARPET - The general designation for fabric used as a floor covering. It is occasionally used incorrectly
in the plural as "carpets" or "carpeting." The preferred usage today is "carpet" in both the singular and
plural form. It may be used as an adjective, as in "carpeted floors."
CONTINUOUS FILAMENT - Continuous strand of synthetic fiber extruded in yarn form without the need
for spinning, which all natural fibers require.
KNITTING - A method of fabricating a carpet in one operation, as in weaving. Surface and backing
yarns are looped together with a stitching yarn on machines with three sets of needles.
NEEDLEPUNCHING - Layers or batts of loose fiber are needled into a core, or scrim, fabric to form a
felted or flat-textured material.
NYLON - A synthetic material, of synthetic polyamides derivable from coal, air, and water, which is
adapted for fashioning into filaments of extreme toughness, strength, and elasticity.
OLEFINS - Any long chain synthetic polymer composed of at least 85% by weight of ethylene,
propylene, or other olefin units.
POLYESTER - A manufactured fiber in which the fiber-forming substance is any long-chain synthetic
polymer composed of at least 85% by weight of an ester of a dihydric alcohol and terephthalic acid
(p-HOOC-C6H4-COOH).
4-44
-------
GLOSSARY
POLYPROPYLENE - High-molecular weight paraffin fiber made by the polymerization of propylene
(FTC Classification Olefin).
PRIMARY BACKING - The material on which the carpet is constructed. The material to which the visible
secondary backing is anchored. Usually jute or polypropylene.
PRIME URETHANE CUSHION - A carpet cushion made from virgin polyether urethane foam slab stacks.
RESIN - A synthetic or natural substance that is thermoplastic, flammable, nonconductive of electricity
and dissolves in certain specific organic solvents, but not water.
RUG - A term used to designate soft floor coverings laid on the floor but not fastened to it. As a rule, a
rug does not cover the entire floor.
TUFTED CARPET - Carpet or rug fabric that is not woven in the usual manner, but formed by the
insertion of thousands of needles that punch tufts through a fabric backing on the principle of the
sewing machine.
VELVET CARPET - A woven carpet made on a cam loom very similar to the Wilton loom, except that
there is no Jacquard motion to control when each individual yarn rises to the surface. Today most
velvet carpet produced is a level loop fabric in tweed or plain colors. Some cut pile plush or splush
fabrics are also produced.
VOC - Any organic compound which participates in atmospheric photochemical reactions."
WEAVING - Surface and backing yams are interlaced, or woven together, in one operation. Several
types of looms are employed. See Axminster, Wilton, Velvet.
WILTON - Named after a town in England. This carpet weaving process employs a Jacquard pattern
making mechanism, operating on the same principle as player piano rolls, with punched pattern cards
determining the pile height and color selection; most often used for patterns and multilevel textures.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Code of Federal Regulations. Title 56, Part 52, p. 11390.
4-45
-------
REFERENCES
1. Carpet and Rug Institute. The Carpet Specifier's Handbook. Third Edition. Dalton,
Georgia. 1980.
2. Bureau of the Census, U.S. Department of Commerce. Current Industrial Reports,
Carpet and Rugs, MA22Q(revised). 1988.
3. Bureau of the Census, U.S. Department of Commerce. 1987 Census of Manufactures,
Industry Series, Weaving and Floor Covering Mills, Industry Series, MC87-1-22A.
4. Leukroth, R.W., Jr., ed. Carpet Policy Dialogue, Interim Progress Report. Prepared for
the Office of Toxic Substances, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington,
D.C.. April 10,1991. pp. C7-C12. Available to the public in the Carpet Emissions
Administrative Record, Docket No. AR-015, TSCA Public Docket Office, 401 M Street,
S.W., Washington, DC.
5. Leukroth, R.W. Carpet Policy Dialogue Compendium Report. EPA-560/2-91-002.
(NTIS PB92-115005). U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. September 1991.
6. Hodgson, A.T., J.D. Wooley, and J.M. Daisey. Emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds from
New Carpets Measured in a Large-Scale Environmental Chamber, jn: Proceedings from the
85th Annual Meeting and Exhibition of the Air and Waste Management Association, Kansas City,
Missouri. June 1992.
7. McCurley, W.D. and G.D. Rawlings. Source Assessment: Cotton and Synthetic Woven
Fabric Finishing. EPA-600/2-80-042a. (NTIS PB81-161937). U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. January 1980.
8. Shaw, T. Wool and the Environment. Text. Asia, 21 (10):30-32, 49-50. October 1990.
9. IT Environmental Programs, Inc. Summary Report of the Process Engineering Subgroup
of the Carpet Policy Dialogue. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. August 1991.
10. Cooke, R.F. and H.D. Weigmann. Stain Blockers for Nylon Fibers. Rev. of Prog. Coloration
Relat. Top., 20:10-18. 1990.
11. Shoshkes, L. Contract Carpeting. Whitney Library of Design, New York, New York.
1974. pp. 40-67, 134-155.
12. Black M.S., W.J. Pearson, and LM. Work. A Methodology for Determining VOC
Emissions from New SBR Latex Backed Carpet, Adhesives, Cushions, and Installment
Systems and Predicting Their Impact on Indoor Air Quality. Presented at the Healthy
Buildings IAQ Conference, Washington, DC. September 1991.
13. Telephone conversation. Lisa Huff of Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with Carroll Turner, Technical Associate, Carpet and Rug Institute.
July 29, 1991.
14. Heyn, H.E. Basics of Primary and Secondary Carpet Backings. American Dyestuff
Reporter, 32-34, 37-38. June 1983.
4-46
-------
REFERENCES (Continued)
16. Telephone conversation. Lisa Huff of Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with Bill Oler, Executive Director, Carpet Cushion Council. July 29, 1991.
17. O'Neill, F. The Top 50, Something of Value. Carpet and Rug Industry. June 1991.
18. Steadman, T.R. et al. Section 7: Organic Dyes and Pigments Industry. ]n: Industrial
Process Profiles for Environmental Use. EPA-600/2-77-023g. (NTIS PB281479).
February 1977.
19. Parr, J.L. Section 11: The Synthetic Fiber Industry, jn: Industrial Process Profiles for
Environmental Use. EPA-600/2-77-023k. (NTIS PB281481). February 1977.
20. Thompson, C.M. Section 13: Plasticizers Industry, jn: Industrial Process Profiles for
Environmental Use. EPA-600/2-77-023m. (NTIS PB291642). February 1977.
21. Fitzgerald, P L. Integral Latex Foam Carpet Cushioning. J. Coated Fabr., 7:107-120.
October 1977.
22. Smigielski, E. The Backcoating Technology of Carpets. Carpet. Info. Letter, Vol. 84,
Part 1. July 17, 1990.
23. Smigielski, E. The Backcoating Technology of Carpets. Backsizing of Woven Carpets.
Carpet. Info. Letter, Vol. 84, Part 2, July 17, 1990.
24. Smigielski, E. The Backcoating Technology of Carpets. Tufted Carpet Primary
Backcoating and Prelocking for Foam. Carpet. Info. Letter, Vol. 84, Part 3.
July 17, 1990.
25. Smigielski, E. The Backcoating Technology of Carpets. Latex Secondary Backing of
Tufted Carpets. Carpet. Info. Letter, Vol. 84, Part 4. July 17, 1990.
26. Smigielski, E. The Backcoating Technology of Carpets. Foam Backing of Carpets.
Carpet. Info. Letter, Vol. 84, Part 5. July 17, 1990.
27. Smigielski, E. The Backcoating Technology of Carpets. Flame Retardant Backings.
Carpet. Info. Letter, Vol. 84, Part 6. July 17, 1990.
28. Smigielski, E. The Backcoating Technology of Carpets. New Developments in
Backcoating of Carpets. Carpet. Info. Letter, Vol. 84, Part 7. July 17, 1990.
29. Scott, R.L. Carpet Laminating. J. Coated Fabr., 19: 35-52. July 1989.
30. Ince, J. and P.G.H. Bakker. Control of Static Electricity in Wool Carpets. Carpet Info.
Letter, Vol. 86. December 11, 1981.
4-47
-------
REFERENCES (Continued)
31. Skeist, I. Handbook of Adhesives. Third Edition. Van Nostrand Reinhold, New York,
New York. 1990.
32. McLaughlin, P., and R. Aigner. Higher Alcohols as Indoor Air Pollutants: Source,
Cause, Mitigation. ]n: Proceedings of the 5th International Conference on Indoor Air
Quality and Climate, Toronto, Canada. July 29-August 3, 1990. pp.587-591.
33. Sears, J.K. and J.R. Darby. The Technology of Plasticizers. John H. Wiley & Sons, Inc.
New York, New York. pp. 842-845. 1982.
34. Telephone conversation. Lisa Huff of Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with Chuck Smith, Technical Director, A-CHEM, Cowpens, South Carolina.
August 20, 1991.
35. Clarke, P. and A. Plage. Development of a Modern Bulked Continuous Filament Carpet
Yarn from Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT). Jn: Chemiefasern/Textil-Industrie,
Manmade Fiber Yearbook. 1990. pp. 65-66.
36. Telephone conversation. Lisa Huff of Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with Donna Burge, Librarian, Documents Section, D.H. Hill Library, North
Carolina State University, Raleigh, North Carolina. August 20, 1991.
37. Black, M. and C. Bayer. Formaldehyde and other VOC Exposures from Consumer
Products. Jn: Proceedings of the 1986 ASHRAE Conference. American Society of
Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers, Inc., Atlanta, Georgia. April 1986.
38. Pleil, J.D. and R.S. Whiton. Determination of organic emissions from new carpeting.
Appl. Occup. Environ. Hyg., 5(10). October 1990. pp. 693-699.
39. Air Quality Sciences, Inc. Ventilation Effects on Pollutant Concentrations. Prepared for
the State of Washington, Department of General Administration, East Campus Plus
Program. Report No. 01015-15. July 10, 1990.
40. Air Quality Sciences, Inc. Indoor Air Quality Compliance Review. Prepared for the State
of Washington, Department of General Administration, East Campus Plus Program.
Report Nos. 01015-10, -11, -12, -13, -14. June 21, 1990.
41. Gammage, R.B. Temporal Fluctuations of Formaldehyde Levels Inside Residences.
jn: Proceedings of the APCA Specialty Conference on Measurement and Monitoring of
Non-Criteria (Toxic) Contaminants in Air, Chicago, Illinois. March 1983. pp. 453-462.
42. Godish, T. Interpretation of One-Time Formaldehyde Sampling Results from
Measurements of Environmental Variables. Levels Inside Residences. Jn: Proceedings
• of the APCA Specialty Conference on Measurement and Monitoring of Non-Criteria
(Toxic) Contaminants in Air, Chicago, Illinois. March 1983. pp. 463-470.
43. Hawthorne, A.R. et al. Preliminary Results of a Forty-Home Indoor Air Pollutant
Monitoring Study. Jn: Proceedings of the APCA Specialty Conference on Measurement
and Monitoring of Non-Criteria (Toxic) Contaminants in Air, Chicago, Illinois.
March 1983. pp. 514-526.
4-48
-------
REFERENCES (Continued)
44. Schroder, E. Textile Floor Coverings and Indoor Air Quality. ]n: Proceedings of the
5th International Conference on Indoor Air Quality and Climate, Toronto, Canada.
July 29-August 3, 1990. pp. 719-723.
45. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Fed. Reg., Vol. 55, No. 79, pp. 17404-17409.
April 24, 1990.
46. Bayer, C., M. Black, and L. Gal way. Sampling and Analysis Techniques for Trace Volatile
Organic Emissions from Consumer Products. J. Chromatogr. Sci. 26:168-173. 1988.
47. Black, M. Environmental Chamber Technology for the Study of Volatile Organic Compound
Emissions from Manufactured Products. Presented at the Fifth International Conference on
Indoor Air Quality and Climate, Toronto. 1990.
48. Davidson, J., M. Black, W. Pearson, and L. Work. Carpet Installation During Building Renovation
and its Impacts on Indoor VOC Concentrations. Presented at Healthy Buildings - IAQ '91.
49. Godish, T. and B. Kanyer. Chamber Studies of Formaldehyde Emissions from Wood Products,
Urea Formaldehyde Foam and Carpeting. Presented at Air Pollution Control Association.
New Orleans, Louisiana. 1982.
50. Matthews, T.G. Preliminary Evaluation of Formaldehyde Mitigation Studies in Unoccupied
Research Homes. Sponsored by U.S. Department of Energy, Contract DE-AC05-840R21400.
1984.
51. Miksch, R., C.D. Hollowell, and H.E. Schmidt. Trace Organic Chemical Contaminants in Office
Spaces. Env. Int., 8:129-137. 1982.
52. Pickrell, J.A. et al. Release of Formaldehyde from Various Consumer Products.
NTIS DE83000382. 1982.
53. Sheldon, L., H. Zelon, J. Sides, C. Eaton, and T. Hartwell. Indoor Air Quality in Public Buildings.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. EPA/600/6-88/009b. (NTIS PB89-102511). 1988.
54. Smigielski, E. Backcoating Technology of Carpets. Carpet Technical Information Letter
July 1981.
55. Wallace, L., E. Pellizzari, B. Leaderer, H. Zelon, and L. Sheldon. Assessing Emissions of Volatile
Organic Compounds by Building Materials and Consumer Products, jn: Symposium on
Characterization of Contaminant Emissions from Indoor Sources; Chapel Hill, NC. Atmos
Environ. 21:385-393. 1987.
56. Weschler, C.J., A.T. Hodgson, and J.D. Wooley. Ozone and Carpets: Chemistry with
Implications for Indoor Environments. ]n: Proceedings from the 85th Annual Meeting and
Exhibition of the Air and Waste Management Association, Kansas City, Missouri. June 1992.
4-49
-------
5.0 ADHESIVES
5.1 Description of Product Category
The industry-accepted definition for adhesives includes any substances capable of holding
materials together by surface attachment.1 These substances can Include paints, finishes, coatings,
grouts, sealants, caulks, cements, and concretes in certain applications. For the purpose of this
Catalog, however, adhesives includes only materials in a distinct container whose primary function is to
adhere a building material to an indoor surface or substrate in a home or office building. This category
does not include adhesives that are an integral part of a building material, such as the adhesives used to
bind plywood particles together or the adhesives that are an integral part of carpet backing. In this
Catalog, paints and sealants and caulks are not considered adhesives and are discussed in separate
sections.
5.1.1 Product Classification
Every adhesive has a natural or synthetic resin base that determines how the adhesive is
formulated. For instance, some resins are water-dispersible, while others require an organic solvent to
dissolve them. Adhesives also come in different polymer forms, including solids, liquids, and emulsions.
Based on formulation, each synthetic resin type is classified as a general polymer type. Resins that are
classified as a certain polymer type have similar emissions potential because they are formulated in
similar ways. A classification scheme of adhesives by general polymer types is shown in Figure. 5-1.
The natural-based materials, excluding natural rubber, are divided by resin type into natural
vegetable-based adhesives, natural animal-based adhesives, and other natural-based adhesives. Natural
vegetable adhesives include starches and dextrins; and natural animal adhesives include casein. The
third category includes oleoresinous and bituminous (asphaltic) adhesives. The division of these natural
adhesives parallels their Standard Industrial Classification (SIC) codes, which also categorizes natural
adhesives by their resin base. The emissions potential for most natural adhesives is low and, therefore,
they were not grouped by polymer type, which differentiates the emission potential of adhesives
Starches, dextrins, and casein resins are all water soluble and, therefore, do not require large quantities
of organic solvents to formulate. Asphaltics are available in emulsion form (water-based) or in hot-pour
forms, which set as they cool and are virtually 100% solids. Oleoresinous adhesives can be formulated
with small amounts of organic solvent because they dry by oxidation and not by solvent release.
The synthetic polymers and natural rubber-based adhesives are first grouped by polymer type
including solid polymers and solid rubbers, emulsions, liquid polymers, hot melts, and pressure-
5-1
-------
i.
NATURAL-BASED ADHESIVES
A.
Natural vegetable-based adhesives
1.
Starches
2.
Dextrlns
B.
Natural anlmal-based adhesives
1.
Casein
C.
Other natural adhesives
1.
Oleoresinous
2.
Bituminous (asphaltics)
II.
SYNTHETIC-BASED ADHESIVES
A.
Solid polymer/solid rubber
1.
Styrene butadiene rubber (SBR)
2.
Neoprene rubber
3.
Nitrile rubber
4.
Butyl rubber
5.
Natural rubber3
6.
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
7.
Polyurethane (PUR)
B.
Liquid polymer
1.
Epoxy
2.
Polyurethane (PUR)
3.
Phenolics (resorcinol)
4.
Polyvinyl alcohol (PVOH)
5.
Amino (urea formaldehyde/melamine formaldehyde)
6.
Nitrile
7.
Silicone
C.
Emulsions
1.
Latex acrylics
2.
Polyvinyl acetate (PVAC)
3.
Styrene butadiene latex
4.
Neoprene latex
5.
Natural rubber latex3
D.
Hot melts
t.
Ethylene vinyl acetate
E.
Pressure-sensitive
1.
Natural rubber i
2
Styrene butadiene rubber
F.
Latex acrylics
a Natural rubber adhesives are included with synthetics because they are formulated in a similar way.
Figure 5-1. Classification of Adhesives by Polymer Type
-------
sensitives. Of these groups, the solid polymers and solid rubbers have the greatest potential to emit
indoor air contaminants because they are formulated with the largest amount of organic solvent, which is
released when they dry. Liquid polymers and water-based emulsions tend to have less emissions
because neither of these types of polymers dry by release of organic solvent. Usually a base resin may
fit into more than one of these categories. The SIC codes group different synthetic resin and polymer
types into one code. Because resin and polymer type are the basis for emissions potential, no overlap
between SIC code and emission potential existed, and SIC codes were not used to help classify
synthetic adhesives.
The solid polymer and solid rubber adhesives category includes all of the solid resins that are
dispersed or dissolved in organic solvents. Resins in this category include natural rubber, synthetic
rubbers, and solid synthetic resins (organosols). Because they are in solid form, these polymers require
large amounts of solvent to alter the viscosity of the solid until the adhesive becomes spreadable. This
type of adhesive dries primarily by solvent evaporation and basically converts back to the base polymer
from which it was formulated. Fillers and other additives, which may or may not be volatile, can also be
required in the formulation. Organosols may require heat to flash off the solvent.
The emulsions category includes those resins and polymers that are dispersed in water.
Adhesives in the emulsions category dry by water evaporation but may also release small quantities of
volatile fillers or additives.
The liquid polymer category includes those adhesives that dry by methods other than organic
solvent or water evaporation. They are thermosetting adhesives. which primarily cure or "dry" by
exposure to air or water, by application of heat and pressure, or with the help of a curing agent. Some
type of reaction or crosslinking occurs, which may produce volatile by-products. Liquid polymers
require little or no solvent to adjust the viscosity of the adhesive. However, they often require fillers or
additives to improve the properties of the base polymer, and these materials may or may not be volatile.
If the polymer itself is not liquid, it is dissolved or dispersed in a solvent that may or may not be volatile.
Hot melts and pressure-sensitive adhesives have low emission potential. Hot melts are
thermoplastic polymers that soften and become tacky when heated and return to the original solid form
when cooled. The heat must be sufficiently high to make the material spreadable. Hot melt pressure-
sensitive adhesives are included in the hot melt category. Pressure-sensitives remain permanently tacky
and do not cure or dry. These adhesives require pressure and not heat for application. Some pressure-
sensitive adhesives use organic solvent-based systems and have the potential to emit extremely small
quantities of solvent. Pressure-sensitives can also be emulsion-based.
5-3
-------
The polymer types are generalities. Many resin combinations and copolymer systems can be
used to formulate adhesives, creating instances when a resin type does not clearly fit into one of the
categories. Also, emission potential varies from product to product. Therefore, the emissions from a
particular adhesive may be higher or lower than predicted by the adhesive's polymer type.
5.1.2 Product Major Uses
There are five major end uses defined for adhesives including: flooring, insulation, walls, and
miscellaneous and general uses. Miscellaneous uses are those end uses that did not fit into the flooring,
insulation, or walls categories (e.g., kitchen cabinets). The general uses group lists adhesives used for
specific substrate types, such as adhesives used for wood or metal. Different types of adhesives used
for each of the five areas of application are shown in Tables 5-1 through 5-5, respectively. The data list
specific end uses of each adhesive based on general polymer type and specific resin base. For
example, all of the liquid polymer epoxy resin adhesives used for flooring are listed in Table 5-2. This
table contains the most common adhesives used for typical residential applications.
5.1.3 Sales and Production
Overall adhesive consumption for all applications has grown by 250% from 1975 to 1990, but
consumption of adhesives based on synthetic polymers has grown by over 600% in the same time
period.2 Synthetic adhesives provide improved adhesion to various substrates, can be applied at faster
speeds, and exhibit superior properties compared to natural adhesives.2 Synthetic adhesives are
replacing natural adhesives in many applications because it is possible to formulate synthetic adhesives
that have specific final properties. Many synthetic adhesives are now "tailor made" for particular end
uses. This overall increase in consumption equates to an increase in adhesive use of approximately
50% by volume 2 The use of certain adhesive types has grown more rapidly than others, however.
Consumption of all types of acrylic adhesives has grown by 175% in the last 12 years, and most of this
growth has been in the construction and pressure-sensitive market.2 Polyvinyl acetate polymers and
copolymer adhesives, ethylene-vinyl acetate hot melts, and polyurethane adhesives have also exhibited
rapid increases in usage.2
Table 5-6 shows the breakdown of the adhesives market in 1990 and the predicted use of
adhesive products in 1995. Total adhesives demand is expected to increase from 9,850 million pounds
to 11,050 million pounds during that period.3 It is predicted that polyurethane adhesives and acrylic
adhesives will show the largest percent increase in demand (26.2% and 23.1% respectively).3 Phenolics
should show the largest increase in use by pound.3
5-4
-------
Table 5-1
Adhesives End Use and Polymer Type (Walls)
cn
cn
LIQUID
POLYMER
MAJOR CATBOORY
SOLID POLYMER/SOLID RUBBER
EMULSIONS
HOT MELTS
NATURAL
SBR
NEOPRENE
RUBBER
NITRILE
RUBBER
PUR
NATURAL
RUBBER
LATEX
ACRYLICS
PVAC
NEOPRENE
LATEX
ETHYLENE/
VINYL ACETATE
EPOXY
DBXTRINS
STARCH
TYPE: WALLPAPER
- INSTALLED ON ANY
SURFACE
X
X
X
TYPE: GYPSUM WALLBOARD
- INSTALLED ON B,S,M,CCB
X
X
- INSTALLED ON P.PC
X»
x»
X
X
- INSTALLED ON OB.W.PW,
HB.PB
X*
X*
X
X
X
TYPE: PLYWOOD AND PANELING
- INSTALLED ON METAL
X*
X*
X
X
- INSTALLED ON B,S,PC,CCB
X»
X
X
X
X
- INSTALLED ON GB,P,HB.PB.
PW,W
X*
X
X
X*
X
TYPE: TILEBOARD/WALL TILE
- INSTALLED ON B,S,C,CCB
X
X
- INSTALLED ON GB.P.W.PW,
HB.PB
x»
X
- INSTALLED ON METAL
x»
X
X
-------
Table 5-1
(Continued)
LIQUID
POLYMER
MAJOR CATBOORY
SOLID POLYMER/SOLID RUBBER
EMULSIONS
HOT MELTS
NATURAL
NEOPRENE
RUBBER
NITRILE
RUBBER
NATURAL
RUBBER
LATEX
ACRYUCS
NEOPRENE
LATEX
ETHYLENE/
SBR
PUR
PVAC
VINYL ACETATB
EPOXY
DHXTWHS
STARCH
TYPE: HARDBOARD PANEL
- INSTALLED ON M„S,CCB
X
X
- INSTALLED ON PC
X*
X»
X
X
- INSTALLED ON GB.P.HB.PB,
W.PW
X*
X*
X
X
X
TYPE: SANDWICH PANELS
- INSTALLED ON ANY
SURFACE
X
X
X
X
TYPE: PLASTIC LAMINATES
- INSTALLED ON M.B.S.PC,
CCB
X
X
X
X
X
- INSTALLED ON HB.P.GB
X
X*
X*
X
X
- INSTALLED ON PB.PW.W
X
X*
X*
X»
X
X
• MOST COMMONLY USED ADHESIVE
SURFACE ABBREVIATIONS:
S - STONE GB - OYPSUM BOARD
B - BRICK W - WOOD
CCB - CONCRETE CINDER BLOCK PW - PLYWOOD
PC - POURED CONCRETE PB - PARTICLE BOARD
P - PLASTER M - METAL
HB - HARDBOARD
-------
Table 5-2
Adhesives End Use and Polymer Type (Flooring)
Ol
MAJOR CATEGORY
SOLID POLYMER/SOLID RUBBER
HOT MELTS
PRESSURE
SENSITIVE
EMULSIONS
NATURAL
LIQUID
POLYMER
NEOPRENE
NITRILE
BUTYL
NATURAL
ETHYLENE/
VINYL
NATURAL
LATEX
SBR
RUBBER
RUBBER
PUR
RUBBER
RUBBER
ACETATE
RUBBER
ACRYLICS
PVAC
SBR
ASPHALT
STARCH
EPOXY
TYPE; CARPET
- INSTALLED ON ANY
SURFACE
X*
X
X
X
X
TYPE: CARPET TILE
- INSTALLED ON ANY
SURFACE
X
X
TYPE: VINYL TILE
- INSTALLED ON ANY
SURFACE
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
TYPE: VINYL SHEET
- INSTALLED ON ANY
SURFACE
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
TYPE: WOOD FLOORING
- INSTALLED ON B.S.PC.CCB
X*
X
X
X
- INSTALLED ON GB.P.W,
HB.PB.M.PW
X*
X
X
TYPE: SUBFLOORING
- INSTALLED ON GB.P.W,
PB.HB.PW
X»
X*
X
X
TYPE: WOOD PARQUET
- INSTALLED ON B.S.CCB.P
X*
X*
X
X
- INSTALLED ON PC.P.HB,
PB.PW
X»
X
X
X
X*
- INSTALLED ON METAL
SURFACES
X«
x»
X
X
X
X
-------
Table 5-2
ADHESJVES (Continued)
USAGE CATEGORY: FLOORING
MAJOR CATEGORY
SOLID POLYMER/SOUD RUBBER
HOT MELTS
PRESSURE
SENSITIVE
EMULSIONS
NATURAL
LIQUID
POLYMER
SBR
NBOPRENE
RUBBER
NITRILE
RUBBER
PUR
BUTYL
RUBBER
NATURAL
RUBBER
ETHYLENE/
VINYL
ACETATE
NATURAL
RUBBER
LATEX
ACRYLICS
PVAC
SBR
ASPHALT
STARCH
EFOXY
TYPE: SLATE TILES
- INSTALLED ON B.S.M.CCB
X»
X
- INSTALLED ON PC
x»
X
X
- INSTALLED ON GB.P.HB,
PW.W.PB
x»
X
X
TYPE: ASPHALT TILES
- INSTALLED ON ANY
SURFACE
X
X
TYPE: CERAMIC TILE
- INSTALLED ON B.S.M.CCB
x»
X
X
X
- INSTALLED ON PC
X*
X
X
X
- INSTALLED ON GB.P.HB,
PB.PW.W
X*
X
X
X
X
TYPE: QUARRY TILE
- INSTALLED ON B.S.CCB
X*
X
- INSTALLED ON PC
X*
X
X
- INSTALLED ON GB.P.HB.
W.PW.PB
X*
X
X
TYPE: MARBLE
- INSTALLED ON ANY
SURFACE EXCEPT METALS
X*
X»
X
- INSTALLED ON METAL
SURFACES
X*
X«
X
X
• MOST COMMONLY USED ADHESIVE
SURPACE ABBREVIATIONS:
S- STONE
B - BRICK
CCB - CONCRETE CINDER BLOCK
PC - POURED CONCRETE
P- PLASTER
HB - HARDBOARD
GB - GYPSUM BOARD
W - WOOD
PW - PLYWOOD
PB - PARTICLE BOARD
M - METAL
-------
Table 5-3
Adhesives End Use and Polymer Type (Insulation)
Ol
i
<0
MAJOR CATEGORY
SOLID POLYMER/SOLID RUB
HOT MELTS
EMULSIONS
LIQUID
POLYMER
SBR
NEOPRENE
RUBBER
PUR
ETHYLENE/
VINYL ACETATE
LATEX
ACRYLICS
PVAC
EPOXY
NITRILB
TYPE: CELLULOSE INSULATION
- INSTALLED ON ANY SURFACE
X
TYPE: POLYSTYRENE FOAM
- INSTALLED ON ANY SURFACE
EXCEPT METALS
- INSTALLED ON METAL
SURFACES
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
TYPE: POLYURETHANE FOAM
- INSTALLED ON ANY SURFACE
EXCEPT METALS
- INSTALLED ON METAL
SURFACES
X
X«
X
X«
X
X
X
X
X
X
• MOST COMMONLY USED ADHESIVE
-------
Table 5-4
Adhesives End Use and Polymer Type (Miscellaneous)
NATURAL
ANIMAL
MAJOR CATEGORY
SOLID POLYMER/SOLID RUBBER
HOT MELTS
EMULSIONS
LIQUID POLYMER
SBR
NEOPRENB
RUBBER
NITRILE
RUBBER
PUR
ETHYLENE/
VINYL
ACETATE
f LATEX
ACRYLICS
PVAC
CASEIN
EPOXY
UREA-
FORMALDEHYDB
TYPE CEILING TILE
- INSTALLED ON ANY SURFACE
X
TYPE; FURRING STRIPS
- INSTALLED ON M,B,S,
PC.CCB
X
X
- INSTALLED ON GB.P.HB,
PB.PW.W
X'
X*
X
X
TYPE: DECORATIVE BRICK
- INSTALLED ON B.S,PC.CCB
X
X*
X
- INSTALLED ON METAL
X
X
X
X
- INSTALLED ON OB.P.HB.PB,
PW.W
X•
X*
X
X
TYPE: COVE BASE
- INSTALLED ON ANY
SURFACE EXCEPT METAL
X
X*
X
- INSTALLED ON METAL
X
X*
X
-------
Table 5-4
(Continued)
MAJOR CATBOORY
SOLID POLYMER/SOLID RUBBER
HOT MELTS
EMULSIONS
NATURAL
ANIMAL
LIQUID POLYMER
SBR
NEOPRENE
RUBBER
NITRHJE
RUBBER
PUR
ETHYLENE/
VINYL
ACETATE
LATEX
ACRYLICS
PVAC
CASEIN
EPOXY
UREA-
FORMALDEHYDE
TYPE: PLASTIC TUB & SHOWERS
- INSTALLED ON M.B.S.PC,
CCB
- INSTALLED ON QB.P.HB.W.
PW.PB
X
X»
X
X
TYPE: KITCHEN CABINETS
- INSTALLED ON ANY
SURFACE
X
X»
TYPE: WOOD DOORS
- INSTALLED ON WOOD
X
X
X
TYPE: METAL DOORS
- INSTALLED ON METAL
X
X
• MOST COMMONLY USED ADHESIVE
SURFACE ABBREVIATIONS:
S - STONE OB - GYPSUM BOARD
B - BRICK W - WOOD
CCB - CONCRETE CINDER BLOCK PW - PLYWOOD
PC - POURED CONCRETE PB - PARTICLE BOARD
P - PLASTER M - METAL
HB - HARDBOARD
-------
Table 5-5
Adhesives End Use and Polymer Type (General)
MAJOR CATBOORY
SOLID POLYMER/SOLID RUBBER
HOT MELTS
EMULSIONS
LIQUID POLYMER
NATURAL
SBR
NEOPRENE
RUBBER
NTTRILE
RUBBER
PUR
ETHYLENE/
VINYL
ACETATE
: LATEX
ACRYLICS
PVAC
EPOXY
RESORCINOL
CASEIN
TYPE; WOOD/PLYWOOD
- INSTALLED ON B,S
X*
X«
X
- INSTALLED ON CCB
X*
X»
X
X
X
- INSTALLED ON PC
X*
X»
X
X
X
X
X
- INSTALLED ON QB.P
x«
X
X
X
X
X*
- INSTALLED ON HB
X*
X
X
X«
X
X*
X*
X*
- INSTALLED ON M
X«
X»
X
X
- INSTALLED ON PB.PW.W
X*
X
X
X*
X
X*
X»
x«
TYPE: METAL
- INSTALLED ON B.S.CCB
X*
X*
X
- INSTALLED ON PC
x»
x»
X
X
- INSTALLED ON M
X
X
X
X
X
- INSTALLED ON OB.P.W,
PW.PB.HB
X"
X*
X
X
X
TYPE: CHALKBOARD/CORK
- INSTALLED ON B.S.CCB
X»
X
- INSTALLED ON PC.P.GB,
HB.M.PW.W.PB
X*
X
X
X
• MOST COMMONLY USED ADHESIVE
SURFACE ABBREVIATIONS:
S - STONE OB - GYPSUM BOARD
B - BRICK W - WOOD
CCB - CONCRETE CINDER BLOCK PW - PLYWOOD
PC - POURED CONCRETE PB - PARTICLE BOARD
P - PLASTER M - METAL
HB - HARD BOARD
5-12
-------
Table 5-6
Adhesives Demand - Total Market
1990 - 1995 (in Millions of Pounds)
Product Type
1990 Adhesive
Demand
1990 Percent of
Total
1995 Adhesive
Demand
1995 Percent of
Total
Percent Increase
1990 to 1995
Synthetic
5,845
59.3%
6,760
61.2%
15.7%
Phenolics
1,480
15.0%
1,675
15.2%
13.2%
Vinyl
1,023
10.4%
1,180
10.7%
15.3%
Synthetic Rubber
925
9.4%
1,070
9.7%
15.7%
Hot Melts
878
8.9%
1,035
9.4%
17.9%
Amino
869
8.8%
960
8.7%
10.5%
Acrylic Adhesives
325
3.3%
400
3.6%
23.1%
Polyurethane Adhesives
103
1.0%
130
1.2%
26.2%
Epoxy Adhesives
49
0.5%
60
0.5%
22.4%
Polyester Adhesives
37
0.4%
50
0.5%
35.1%
Other Synthetic Adhesives
156
1.6%
200
1.8%
28.2%
Natural
4,005
40.7%
4,290
38.8%
7.1%
TOTAL
9,850
100.0%
11,050
100.0%
12.2%
-------
One literature reference states that one of the largest uses for adhesives is in the construction
industry, and, more importantly, the bulk of the volume of adhesives used in this industry are
thermoplastic, water-based adhesives 2 Adhesive technology is leaning away from solvent-based
systems and toward water-based, high-solids systems and hot melts.3 The environmental focus is
prompting the development of recyclable or biodegradable adhesive systems.3 Tables 5-1 through 5-5
show that solid styrene butadiene rubber adhesives are the most commonly used adhesive in many
applications. In most cases, however, a lower-emitting adhesive could be substituted.
5.2 Major Constituents of Concern
A typical adhesive requires several additives to modify the properties of the base polymer.
These may include tackifiers, plasticizers or oils, solvents, fillers, curing agents, stabilizers, antifoams, or
thickeners. The major constituents of concern are any volatile organic solvents used to formulate an
adhesive, along with the plasticizers, which are typically VOCs. Some of the more common organic
solvents used are listed in Table 5-7. Tackifiers and thickeners are usually some type of modifying resin
different from the base resin, and fillers are solid materials such as clay, silica, and calcium carbonate.
These materials are typically not volatile. The use of stabilizers, antifoams, and curing agents varies with
each adhesive and, consequently, these components may or may not be a concern. Stabilizers are
important for polymers that are sensitive to such things as ultraviolet light, heat, bacteria, and moisture
because they keep the base polymer from breaking down.
For solid polymers and solid rubbers, organic solvents are used in large quantities to dissolve
the polymer. Typical solvents include ketones, alcohols, esters, hydrocarbons, and chlorinated
compounds. Each polymer is soluble in particular types of solvents. For instance, butyl rubber is
soluble in hydrocarbon and chlorinated solvents but not in common alcohols, esters, or ketones 2 Any
other additives must be dispersible or soluble in the organic solvent used in the formulation.
With emulsions, the major volatile component is water. However, small amounts of volatile
plasticizers or organic solvents are often used to optimize the properties of the adhesive. Any other
additives must be soluble or dispersible in water. Table 5-7 also lists the water miscibility of various
organic solvents.
Similarly, the constituents of concern in liquid polymers and natural adhesives are the volatile
solvents and additives used in the formulation. In the past, pressure-sensitive adhesives were formulated
from solvent-based rubber systems. However, technological developments have led to the development
of latex-based and hot melt pressure-sensitive adhesives to decrease the dependency on solvents 2
5-14
-------
Table 5-7
Typical Organic Solvents and Their Water Miscibility
Solvents
Water Misclble
Water Immiscible
Alcohols
Ethan ol
X
Isopropanol
X
Methanol
X
Chlorinated Compounds
Ethylene dichloride
X
Methylene chloride
X
Perchlorethylene
X
1,1,1-Trichlorethane
X
Trichloroethylene
X
Esters
Ethyl acetate
X
Methyl acetate
X
n-Butyl acetate
X
Glycols, Ethers, and Oxides
Diethylene glycol diethyl ether
X
Diethylene glycol monobutyl ether
X
Diethylene glycol monoethyl ether
X
Diethyiene glycol monomethyl ether
X
Dioxane
X
Ethylene glycol monoethyl ether
X
Ethylene glycol monobutyl ether
X
Lower glycol ethers
Hydrocarbons
Mineral spirits
X
Naphtha
X
Toluene
X
Xylene
X
Ketones
Acetone
X
Cyclohexanone
X
Diacetone alcohol
X
Isophorone
X
Methyl ethyl ketone
X
Methyl isobutyl ketone
X
Miscellaneous
Tetrahydrofuran
X
5-15
-------
5.3 Emissions Information
Limited emissions data are available on adhesives, and the data that are available are extremely
general. For example, emissions for a flooring adhesive or a water-based adhesive are reported.
Additional descriptive information is needed that can be applied to specific types of adhesives so that
emissions from specific products such as styrene butadiene rubber and neoprene rubber can be
compared.
General conclusions about emissions can be drawn based on an adhesive formulation, however.
For instance, it can be assumed that almost all of the solvent used with solid polymers and solid resins
will be off-gassed because that is how the adhesive dries. By studying a specific polymer in this
category, it is reasonable to assume that the typical solvents used with this polymer have emissions
potential. Concentration profiles have also been developed comparing the effects of such variables as
temperature, relative humidity, and air exchange rates on emission rates. This information, used in
conjunction with information that identifies chemicals that are potentially off-gassed, could provide
relatively complete emissions information.
Estimating emission potential for adhesives that cure by chemical reaction is slightly more
complicated than for those adhesives that dry simply by water or solvent evaporation. Numerous
volatile by-products can be produced. For instance, certain phenolics are cured with hexamethylene
tetramine {HMTA), which breaks down into formaldehyde and ammonia in the presence of heat and
moisture. This type of off-gassing could occur years after the adhesive is applied. Another concern is
the breakdown of the base polymer itself. For instance, an ultraviolet-sensitive resin could break down
upon prolonged exposure to sunlight.
A study by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) tested numerous
adhesives considered for use in the space shuttle. The testing was done in a chamber at a temperature
of 120°F, and the pressure was maintained below atmospheric. The off-gas was analyzed for all possible
chemical constituents, not just specific chemicals or chemical types. Therefore, the study provides a
complete list of chemicals with emission potential from each particular adhesive. The applicability of
these data is questionable, however, because the test conditions are not representative of the type of
conditions typically found in homes or office buildings. It is also possible that many of the products
tested are specialty adhesives used primarily in the aerospace industry. Although this database cannot
be used to provide quantitative emissions data on adhesives, it can provide qualitative data on the
chemicals potentially emitted from a wide variety of adhesives.
5-16
-------
5.4 Data Tables
The following data tables summarize information identified in the literature relating to the
adhesives product category. Only VOCs are presented in these data tables; components such as
nonvolatile inert ingredients, fillers, and inorganics that may be constituents of a product are not
included. Each VOC Is identified as a constituent or an emission. In many cases, compounds were
identified in the literature as constituents, but had not specifically been identified through emissions
testing. In addition, a few compounds were identified as being emitted from a product, but not listed as
a constituent. In these cases, emissions may be the result of a chemical reaction within the product.
Emission rates are presented for those compounds that were identified in the literature as being
emitted. These rates are presented as ranges where multiple emission rates were identified.
Chemicals that are hazardous air pollutants (as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended in
November, 1990), carcinogens, or which have a threshold limit value established are designated by an
"H", "C", or "T", respectively, in the column following the chemical.
Full reference citations for all information presented in the tables are included at the end of the
section. The appendix at the end of this section presents additional information, where available,
concerning test conditions for literature cited.
The tables list typical constituents and any available emissions data for the different types of
adhesives, and are based on the organization scheme presented in Figure 5-1. A brief review of the
tables reveals obvious gaps in the available emissions data.
The different sections in the data tables represent the natural resin types and the synthetic
polymer types. The product headings represent a specific resin type, and the subproduct headings
parallel the five major end uses described in Section 5.1.2. The subproduct represents a typical use for
an adhesive formulated with the constituents listed.
In some instances, emissions are reported for compounds not listed as constituents. There are
several explanations for this discrepancy, Including:
• The emitted compounds are listed in more generic or specific terms than the constituent
compound (i.e., benzene or aromatic hydrocarbon).
• The emissions data were obtained from a different source than the constituent data.
5-17
-------
• Crossiinking or some type of reaction produced a volatile by-product that is not a
constituent (i.e., the curing agent used with some phenolic resins, HMTA, breaks down
into ammonia and formaldehyde upon exposure to heat and moisture1).
5-18
-------
ORGANIZATION OF DATA TABLES
NATURAL-BASED ADHESIVES
Natural Vegetable-Based Adhesives 5-20
Natural Animal-Based Adhesives 5-22
SYNTHETIC-BASED ADHESIVES
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber 5-23
Liquid Polymers 5-28
Emulsions 5-32
Hot Melts 5-37
Pressure Sensitive Adhesives 5-38
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES 5-39
5-19
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Adhesives
Chapter Natural Based Product Asphaltic
Vegetable Glue
SIC 28913 SIC 28913-80
Usage/Sales $1.95E+07 Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
C10 Cyclohexane
T
110-87-7
NQ
7
C10-C11 Branched Alkanes
NQ
7
n-Decane
124-18-5
NQ
7
n-Undecane
1120-21-4
NQ
7
SUBPRODUCT: Flooring
Asphalt
8052-42-4
X
4
Petroleum Solvent
X
4
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Adhesives
Chapter Natural Based Product Starch
Vegetable Glue
SIC 28913 SIC 28913-55
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales $3.16E+07
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max
Units
Ref
SUBPRODUCT: Walls
Ammonium Ricinoleate
X
8
Anionic Polyacrylamide
X
2
Carboxymethyl Cellulose
9004-32-4
X
2
Formaldehyde
C.H.T
50-00-0
X
8
Hydroxyethyl Cellulose
X
2
Parachloro-meta Cresol
59-50-7
X
2
Polyacrylamide
9003-05-8
X
2
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Adhesives
Chapter Natural Based Product Casein Glue
Animal Glue
SIC 28913 SIC 28913-50
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average Min
Max Units
SUBPRODUCT: General
Casein
9005-46-3
X
2,4
Mineral Oil
8020-83-5
X
2
Sodium o-Phenylphenate
X
4
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Adhesives
Chapter Solid Polymer/ Product NP
Solid Rubber
SIC 28914
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales 9.25E+08 lbs
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Alcohol
NQ
7
Alcohol-diols
NQ
6
Aldehydes
NQ
6
Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
NQ
6
Aromatic Hydrocarbons
NQ
6
Cyclohexane
NQ
7
Esters
NQ
6
Halogenated Hydrocarbons
NQ
6
Ketones
NQ
6
Methyl Cyclopentane
NQ
7
Saturated Cyclic Hydrocarbons
NQ
6
Styrene
H.T
100-42-5
NQ
7
Toluene
H.T
108-88-3
36.86
0.59
62
ug/g-hr
7
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
1079
507
1650
ug/cm2-hr
6
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NP - No product.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Adhesives
Chapter Solid Polymer/ Product Natural Rubber
Solid Rubber
SIC 28914 SIC 28914
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max
Units
Ref
SUBPRODUCT: Walls
Coumarone-lndene Resin
X
8
Mineral Spirits
X
8
Natural Rubber
X
8
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Adhesives
Chapter Solid Polymer/ Product Neoprene Rubber
Solid Rubber
SIC 28914 SIC 28914
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
1,1,1 -Trichloroethane
H.T
71-55-6
NQ
5
1,1,2-Trichloro-1,2,2-trifluoromethane
NQ
5
1,4-Dioxane
C,T
123-91-1
NQ
5
2-Butanone
H,T
78 93-3
NQ
5
2-Methyl-2-propanol
T
75-65-0
NQ
5
2-Propanol
T
67-63-0
NQ
5
2-Propanone
T
67-64-1
NQ
5
Butenes
25167-67-3
NQ
5
Ethanol
T
64-17-5
NQ
5
Methanol
H,T
67-56-1
NQ
5
Nitromethane
T
75-52-5
NQ
5
Propanol
T
71-23-8
NQ
5
SUBPRODUCT: General, insulation, miscellaneous, walls
Neoprene Rubber
X
8
Toluene
H,T
108-88-3
X
8
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Adhesives
Chapter Solid Polymer/ Product Nitrile Rubber
Solid Rubber
SIC 28914 SIC 28914
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max
Units
Ref
SUBPRODUCT: Flooring
Nitrile Rubber
X
2
Piccanol A600E
X
2
Polyvinyl Chloride Latex
9002-86-2
X
2
Sodium Polyacrylate
X
2
Toluene
H.T
108-88-3
X
2
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Adhesives
Chapter
Solid Polymer/
Solid Rubber
Product
Styrene Butadiene Rubber
SIC
Usage/Sales
28914
ND
SIC
Usage/Sales
28914
ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max
Units
Ref
SUBPRODUCT: Flooring
Petroleum Hydrocarbon
X
2
Styrene Butadiene Rubber
X
2
ND - No data
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Adhesives
Chapter Liquid Polymer Product Silicone
SIC 28914 SIC 28914
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
2-Butanone
H,T
78-93-3
NQ
5
2-Methyl-2-propanol
T
75-65-0
NQ
5
2-Propanol
T
67-63-0
NQ
5
C10 Saturated and Unsaturated
Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
NQ
5
Hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane
NQ
5
Methylbenzene
T
108-88-3
NQ
5
Octamethyl Cyclotetrasiloxane
556-67-2
NQ
5
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Adhesives
Chapter
Liquid Polymer
Product
Nitrile Rubber
SIC
Usage/Sales
28914
ND
SIC
Usage/Sales
28914
ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max
Units
Ref
SUBPRODUCT: Insulation
Nitrile Rubber
X
2
Polyacrylate Resin
X
2
ND - No data
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Adhesives
Chapter Liquid Polymer Product Epoxy Resin
SIC 28914 SIC 28914-11
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales 4.90E+07lbs
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max
Units
Ref
SUBPRODUCT: Flooring
Diethylenetriamine
111 -40-0
X
4
DMP
X
8
Epoxy Resin
X
4,8
Lancast A
X
8
Polyamide Amino Resin
X
4
Versamid 115
X
8
SUBPRODUCT: General, insulation, miscellaneous, walls
DMP
X
8
Epoxy Resin
X
8
Lancast A
X
8
Versamid 115
X
8
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Adhesives
Chapter Liquid Polymer Product Epoxy Resin
SIC 28914 SIC 28914-11
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales 4.90E+07 lbs
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
2-Butanone
H.T
78-93-3
NQ
5
2-Methoxy Ethanol
109-86-4
NQ
5
2-Propanone
T
67-64-1
NQ
5
4-Methyl-2-pentanone
T
108-10-1
NQ
5
Acetaldehyde
H,T
75-07-0
NQ
5
Acetonitrile
H.T
75-05-8
NQ
5
Ammonia
7664-41-7
NQ
5
Benzene
C.H.T
71-43-2
NQ
5
Butane
T
106-97-8
NQ
5
Butenes
25167-67-3
NQ
5
C5 Ketones
NQ
5
C5 Saturated Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
NQ
5
C6 Ketones
NQ
5
C6 Saturated Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
NQ
5
C8 Saturated Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
NQ
5
Methanol
H.T
67-56-1
NQ
5
Methylbenzene
T
108-88-3
NQ
5
Nitromethane
T
75-52-5
NQ
5
Propane
74-98-6
NQ
5
Trichloroethene
H.T
79-01-6
NQ
5
Xylene
H,T
1330-20-7
NQ
5
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Adhesives
Chapter Emulsions Product NP
SIC 28914
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
2-Methylnonane
NQ
9
Alcohol-diols
NQ
6
Aldehydes
NQ
6
Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
NQ
6
Aromatic Hydrocarbons
NQ
6
C8, C9 Branched Alkanes
NQ
7
C8, C9 Cyclohexanes
T
110-87-7
NQ
7
Decane
124-18-5
NQ
9
Dimethyl Benzene
H.T
1330-20-7
NQ
9
Dimethyl Octane
NQ
9
Esters
NQ
6
Halogenated Hydrocarbons
NQ
6
Ketones
NQ
6
Methyl Cyclohexane
T
108-87-2
NQ
7
Nonane
T
111-84-2
NQ
9
n-Nonane
T
111-84-2
NQ
7
n-Octane
T
111-65-9
NQ
7
Saturated Cyclic Hydrocarbons
NQ
6
Undecane
1120-21-4
NQ
9
Total Alkanes
695
610
780
ug/g-hr
7
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
105
<1
210
ug/cm2-hr
6
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NP - No product.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Adhesives
Chapter Emulsions Product Natural Rubber
SIC 28914 SIC 28914
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
C10 Cyclohexane
T
110-87-7
NQ
7
C10, C11 Branched Alkanes
NQ
7
n-Decane
124-18-5
NQ
7
n-Nonane
T
111-84-2
NQ
7
n-Undecane
1120-21-4
NQ
7
Toluene
H.T
108-88-3
NQ
7
SUBPRODUCT: Flooring
Casein
9005-46-3
X
2
Courmarone Resin
X
2
Hydrocarbon Resin (60% solution
in toluene)
108-88-3
X
2
Natural Rubber Latex
X
2
Process Oil
X
2
Solvent
X
2
Terpene Phenolic Resin
X
2
Thiourea
C
62-56-6
X
2
Zinc Diethyldithiocarbamate
Dispersion
14324-55-1
X
2
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Adhesives
Chapter Emulsions Product Neoprene Latex
SIC 28914 SIC 28914
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max
Units
Ref
SUBPRODUCT: Walls
Basin Ester
X
2
Neoprene Latex
126-99-8
X
2
Polyterpene Resin
X
2
Terpene Phenolic Resin
X
2
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Adhesives
Chapter Emulsions Product Polyvinyl Acetate Resin
SIC 28914 SIC 28914-43
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales 1.023E+09lbs
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max
Units
Ref
SUBPRODUCT: Flooring, general
Butyl Acetate
T
123-86-4
X
8
Dibutyl Phthalate
H.T
84-74-2
X
8
Ethyl Acetate
T
141-78-6
X
8
Gelvatol 20-30
X
8
Polyvinyl Acetate Latex
9003-20-7
X
8
Santicizer 160
X
8
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Adhesives
Chapter Emulsions Product Styrene Butadiene Latex
SIC 28914 SIC 28914
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
10.58
3.95
17.2
mg/m2-hr
10
SUBPRODUCT: Flooring
2,3-Methylene bis(4-Methyl-6-tertiary-
butylphenol)
X
4
Casein
9005-46-3
X
4
Cunilate 2778-I
X
4
Dioctyl Phthalate
T
117-81-7
X
2
Methanol
H.T
67-56-1
X
2
Mineral Spirits
X
2
Rosin Gum Emulsion
X
4
Sodium o-Phenylphenate
X
4
Sodium Pentachlorophenate
131-52-2
X
4
Sodium Polyacrylate Hydrocarbon
Resin
X
2
Styrene Butadiene Latex
X
2,4
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
95
90
99
mg/m2-hr
10
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Adhesives
Chapter Hot Melt Product Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
SIC 28914-65 SIC 28914-65
Usage/Sales 8.78E+08lbs
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average Min Max Units
SUBPRODUCT: Flooring
Ethylene Vinyl Acetate
X
2,4
Glycerol Ester of Hydrogenated Rosi
X
4
Styrene Butadiene Styrene
X
2
Sylvator 95
X
2
Thinonylphenyl Phosphite
X
2
White Mineral Oil
X
2
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Adhesives
Chapter Pressure Sensitive Product Natural Rubber
SIC 28914-71 SIC 28914-71
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max
Units
Ref
SUBPRODUCT: Flooring
Coumarone-lndene Resin
X
2
Natural Rubber
X
2
Petroleum Oil
X
2
Poly(B-pinene) Resin
X
2
Trimethyldihydroquinoline
X
2
ND - No data.
-------
Adhesives
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
NASA, 1986
Chamber Study
GC/MS/IS
Value
Min
Max
Units !
RH
%
Temp
120
°F
ACH
Testing Duration
72
hr
Comment:
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
72± 1 hours before sample is taken.
Person, et al., 1990
Chamber Study
GC/MS
Value
Min I Max Units I
RH
! %
Temp
o
0
"t
CM
O
CM
ACH
Testinq Duration
1.5
hr
Comment: Samples taken 90 minutes after being
placed in chamber. Sample duration = 10-30 minutes.
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Girman, et al., 1986
Chamber Study
GC/MS
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
40
%
Temp
23
25
°C
ACH
14
Testinq Duration
1
hr
Comment:
9 to 14 days.
Sample taken after drying periods of
5-39
-------
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES
(Continued)
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Tichenor, 1989
Chamber Study
GC/MS
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
%
Temp
°C
ACH
Testing Duration
30
min
Comment:
Sample taken after 30 minutes.
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Analysis Method:
Black, M., et al., 1991
Chamber Study
GC/MS
: Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
48
52
% I
Temp
24.8
25.2
°C I
,'ACH
0.95
1.05
J
Testing Duration
24
hr i|
10
Comment: Carpet adhesive. Samples taken after
24 or 144 hours in chamber.
5-40
-------
REFERENCES
1. Kirk-Othmer. Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology, Vol 1. John Wiley & Sons, New York, New
York, 1978.
2. Skeist, I. Handbook of Adhesives. 3rd ed. van Nostrand Reinhold, New York, New York. 1990.
3. The Freedonia Group, Inc. Adhesives Age. October 1991. p. 36.
4. Gosselin, Smith, and Hodge. Clinical Toxicology of Commercial Products. Williams & Wilkins,
Baltimore, Maryland, 1984.
5. NASA Database, Version 3.0, April 1986. MBAC - Houston Software Technology Development
Laboratory.
6. Person, A., A.M. Laurent, M.C. Louis-Gavet, J. Aigueperse, and F. Anguenot. Characterization of
Volatile Organic Compounds Emitted by Liquid and Pasty Household Products Via Small Test
Chamber, jn: Proceedings of the Fifth International Conference on Indoor Air Quality and
Climate. 1990.
7. Glrman, J.R., A.T. Hodgson, A.S. Newton, and A.W. Winkes. Emissions of Volatile Compounds
from Adhesives with Indoor Applications. Environ. Int., 12:317-321. 1986.
8. Chalmers, L. and P. Bathe. Chemical Specialties, Domestic and Industrial. London, Leonard
Hill. 1979.
9. Tichenor, B. Measurement of Organic Compound Emissions Using Small Test Chambers. Em.
Int. (15):389-396. 1989
10. Black, M., W. Pearson, and L. Work. A Methodology for Determining VOC Emissions From New
SBR Latex-Backed Carpet, Adhesives, Cushions, and Installed Systems and Predicting Their
Impact on Indoor Air Quality. Healthy Buildings - IAQ '91, Washington, DC. September 1991.
5-41
-------
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Census of Manufactures: Adhesive and Sealant Shipments Total $4.7 Billion; Industry Employment Hits
21,000 in 1987 Figures. Adhesives Age. February 1990.
Merrill, R.G., R.S. Steiber, R.F. Martz, and L.H. Nelms. Screening Methods for the Identification of
Organic Emissions from Indoor Air Pollution Sources. Atmosph. Environ., 21(2);331-336. 1987.
Miksch, R.R., C D. Hollowell, and H.E. Schmidt. Trace Organic Chemical Contaminants in Office Spaces.
Lawrence Berkeley Laboratory, University of California. May 1982.
Telephone conversation. Kristine Scott of Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina,
with Tom McCartney, Schenectady Chemical. 16 August 1991.
Telephone conversation. Kristine Scott of Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina,
with Dennis Stein, 3M. 26 August 1991.
Telephone conversation. Kristine Scott of Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina,
with Monty Price, South Coast Air Quality Management District. 1 August 1991.
Telephone conversation. Kristine Scott of Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina,
with Mark Collatz, Adhesives and Sealants Council. 1 August 1991.
5-42
-------
6.0 SEALANTS AND CAULKS
6.1 Description of Product Category
Sealants and caulks are similar to adhesives in that they must bond to the surfaces they are
sealing. The primary purpose of sealants and caulks is to exclude dust, dirt, moisture, and chemicals
from joints, gaps, or cavities; in some circumstances, they provide structural support.1 Sealants and
caulks are used in many areas of construction to seal a wide variety of surface types, including glass,
concrete, masonry, wood, plastic, and metals.1
6.1.1 Product Classification
There are numerous ways to classify sealants, but for the purpose of this Catalog, they are
classified according to the type of resin, movement capability, and end use.
Resin Type
The resin type classification divides sealants into natural-based and synthetic-based (Figure 6-1).
The natural-based sealants are categorized by resin including natural oil-based and natural bituminous-
based sealants. Natural rubber sealants are included with the synthetics because they are formulated in
the same way as other synthetic sealants. The synthetic sealant categories are divided by basic polymer
types, which Include solid rubber and solid polymers, emulsions, liquid polymers, and tapes and foams.
These polymer types are then subdivided into resin type. This basic polymer type classification scheme
parallels the emissions potential of different types of synthetic sealants and caulks.
Resins are liquid or solid, depending on their chemistry. In order to apply a liquid or solid resin
as a sealant, solvents are added. Solid resins require the largest amounts of solvent. Solid polymer and
solid rubber sealants have the highest emissions potential because they dry by releasing (emitting) the
organic solvents used to adjust their viscosity. Emulsions also dry by solvent release, but the solvent
used in these sealants is water. Liquid polymers require only small amounts of solvent to adjust their
viscosity and dry by methods other than solvent release. Tapes and foams are virtually 100% solids
formulations. Natural-based sealants typically have low emissions potential and are categorized by their
natural resin base instead of a polymer base. The resin base classification scheme parallels the SIC
system for sealants, which also classifies natural sealants by resin types. The SIC Codes classify
synthetic sealants more broadly and include different polymer and resin types under the same code.
Because the emissions potential of synthetic sealants are closely related to specific polymer
6-1
-------
I. NATURAL-BASED SEALANTS
A. Natural oil-based sealants
1. Oleoresinous
B. Natural bituminous-based sealants
1. Asphaltics
II. SYNTHETIC-BASED SEALANTS
A. Solid rubber/solid polymer
1. Butyl rubber
2. Chlorosulfonated polyethylene (Hypalon)
3. Acrylic rubber
4. Nitrile rubber
5. Neoprene rubber
6. Styrene butadiene rubber
B. Emulsions
1. Polyvinyl chloride
2. Latex acrylics
3. Polyvinyl acetate
4. Natural rubber latex3
5. Styrene butadiene latex
C. Liquid polymers
1. Polysulfide
2. Polyurethane
3. Silicones
4. Polyisobutylene
5. Epoxy
6. Polybutene
D. Tapes and foams
1. Butyl (post/preformed tape)
2. Polyvinyl chloride (foam tape)
3. Polyurethane (foam)
4. Polybutene (preformed tape)
5. Polyisobutylene (preformed tape)
6. Thermoplastic rubber
a Natural rubber sealants are included with synthetics because they are lormulated in a similar way.
Figure 6-1. Classification of Sealants by Resin Type
6-2
-------
types, the SIC codes for synthetic-based sealants cannot be related to emissions potential. Therefore,
the SIC Codes were not used as a basis for categorizing synthetic sealants.
Each specific synthetic resin type fits into one or more of the basic polymer types. For instance,
polysulfide sealants are a specific resin type within the liquid polymer resin type category. The specific
resin types are listed in Figure 6-1.
The polymer types are generalities. Many resin combinations and copolymer systems can be
used to formulate sealants, creating Instances where a resin type does not clearly fit into one of the
categories. Also, emission potential varies from product to product. Therefore, the emissions from a
particular sealant may be higher or lower than predicted by the sealant's polymer type.
Movement Capability
The sealants are further classified according to movement capability, which represents the
percentage of compression or tension that a sealant can withstand. The sealants in this study include
low-movement sealants, which are sealants with movement capabilities up to and including 5%.
Medium-movement sealants have movement capabilities greater than 5% but less than 25%, and high-
movement sealants have movement capabilities greater than 25%. Lower-movement sealants are
generally used for interior, static joints where minor or no elastomeric properties are required.2 Higher-
movement sealants are used when greater amounts of elasticity are required. These sealants offer
higher performance and versatility and usually have a longer service life. Caulk is a term used to
describe sealants with movement capabilities of 10% or less.
6.1.2 Product Major Uses
Information describing a sealant's movement capability, resin type, and typical end uses is
summarized in Tables 6-1, 6-2, and 6-3, which list low-, medium-, and high-movement sealants,
respectively. Natural-based sealants are typically considered low-movement sealants. Most solid
polymers and emulsions exhibit volume shrinkage when their solvent evaporates, which limits their
movement capabilities. These sealants are therefore typically medium-movement sealants, as are tapes.
Liquid polymers are formulated with less solvent, shrink less, and are therefore used as high-movement
sealants.
6-3
-------
Table 6-1
Caulks and Sealants Classification Scheme and End Use:
Low-Movement Sealants
MAJOR CATEGORY:
NATURAL
OIL
NATURAL
BITUMINOUS
LIQUID
POLYMER
OLEORESIN
ASPHALTJCS
POLYBUTENE
GLAZING/BEDDING COMPOUND
X
SIDING
X
INTERIOR DUCTWORK
X
CONCRETE SEALANT
(PIPING/PRECAST PANELS)
X
AC COUSTIC AL
X
INDUSTRIAL/COMMERCIAL
CONSTRUCTION SEALANT
X
RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION
SEALANT
X
SEALANT FOR
D1SSIMILIAR MATERIALS
X
X
EXPANSION AND
CONTRACTION JOINTS
X
6-4
-------
Table 6-2
Caulks and Sealants Classification Scheme and End Use:
Medium-Movement Sealants
MAJOR CATEGORY:
SOLID POLYMER/SOLID RUBBER
EMULSIONS
TAPES AND FOAMS
CHLOROSULPON ATED
POLYETHYLENE
(HYPALON)
NEOPRENE
RUBBER
ACRYLIC
RUBBER
BUTYL
RUBBER
LATEX
ACRYLICS
PVAC
EMULSIONS
BUTYL
POSTFORM
TAPES
POLY-
ISOBUTYLENB
TAPES
POLYBUTENE
TAPES
WIVTO
CHLORIDE
TAPES
BUTYL
TAPES
IPOLY-
URBTHANE
FOAM
GENERAL USE
SEALANT/CAULK
X
X
X
O LAZING/BEDDING
COMPOUND
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
INDUSTRIAL/COMMERCIAL
CONSTRUCTION
SEALANT
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
CONCRETE SEALANT
(PIPING/PRECAST PANELS)
X
X
X
X
PIPE JOINT/
PIPE DUCT
X
X
X
X
EXPANSION/CONTRACTION
JOINTS
X
ELECTRICAL
X
SIDING
X
X
X
X
GLASS INSULATION
X
X
TUB/TILE CAULK
X
WITH PAINTS/COATINO
X
GENERAL HOUSEHOLD USE
X
X
RESIDENTIAL
CONSTRUCTION
X
X
X
X
SEALANT FOR
DISSIMILIAR MATERIALS
X
X
X
ACCOUSTICAL
X
FLAME RETARDANT
X
-------
Table 6-3
Caulks and Sealants Classification Scheme and End Use:
High-Movement Sealants
MAJOR CATBQORY:
LIQUID POLYMERS
SOLID POLYMER/
SOUD RUBBER
POLY SULFIDE
POLYURCTHAKE
SILICONE
EPOXY
STYRENE
BUTADIENE
RUBBER
GENERAL CONSTRUCTION SEALANT
X
X
X
GLASS INSULATION
X
X
X
INDUSTRIAL;COMMERCIAL CONSTRUCTION
X
X
X
X
OLAZINO
X
X
X
X
EXPANSION/CONTRACTION JOINTS
X
X
X
ELECTRICAL
X
X
GENERAL HOUSEHOLD
X
TUB/TILE CAULK
X
RESIDENTIAL CONSTRUCTION
X
X
X
CONCRETE SEALANT
(PRECAST PAN ELS,'PIPING)
X
X
X
SOLDER
X
6-6
-------
6.1.3 Sales and Production
In the past 40 years, the demand for high performance construction sealants has increased in
response to the development of curtainwall construction, which involves the assembly of buildings by
attaching precast panels to an erected steel frame.1 The sealants used in this type of construction,
typically synthetic rubber-like or elastomeric sealants, must accommodate for foundation settling, thermal
expansion and contraction of different substrates, and various environmental conditions. The
construction industry is now the largest user of caulks and sealants.2
In 1990, sealant and caulk sales amounted to almost $1.03 billion and are expected to rise to
approximately $1.27 billion in 1995.2 Table 6-4 shows the breakdown of sealant sales in 1990 and
expected sales in 1995. Silicone and butyl sealants represented 45% of the market in 1990.2 Silicone
sealants are expected to have the greatest increase in market share from 1990 to 1995, closely followed
by polyurethanes.2 These two types of sealants are expected to represent approximately half of the
sealant market by 1995.2 The use of silicone sealants is expanding because of their versatility and high-
performance characteristics.3 Styrene-butadiene rubber and nitrile rubber sealants are rarely used
because both require large amounts of solvent to achieve a satisfactory viscosity.1 Therefore, they have
extremely high shrinkage and low movement capability. Polysulfide use is expected to decrease almost
14% by 1995 2
6.2 Major Constituents of Concern
As previously stated, the resin type classification scheme shown in Figure 6-1 groups sealants
and caulks according to their emissions potential. Solid polymers and solid rubbers have the greatest
emissions potential because they require large amounts of solvent to reduce the solid to a liquid
consistency. These sealants dry by solvent evaporation and are thus called solvent-release sealants.
Upon solvent evaporation, the sealant basically converts back to the original rubber.3 A typical
formulation for a sealant in this category consists of the base polymer, solvents, and fillers.*' Each resin
type requires certain types of solvents (i.e., polar, nonpoiar). Fillers are usually nonvolatile fine powders
such as silica or calcium carbonate. Very little crosslinking takes place when these sealants dry,4 so
volatile by-products are of little concern with these resin types.
Emulsions are similar to solvent-release sealants except that they dry by water evaporation. An
emulsion is a suspension of polymer particles in water, and emulsion-based sealants are easily formed
by adding fillers, piasticizers, and other ingredients directly to the emulsion.3 Plasticizers used in
emulsions can consist of a nonvolatile copolymer or a volatile liquid. Fillers are generally nonvolatile
compounds such as calcium carbonate, pigments, or thickening agents.3
6-7
-------
Table 6-4
U.S. Market for Caulks and Sealants
1990 - 1995
Product Type
1990 Caulks and
Sealants Sales
(in Millions of $)
1990 Percent of
Total
1995 Caulks and
Sealants Sales
(in Millions of $)
1995 Percent of
Total
Percent Increase
1990 to 1995
Silicone
275
26.7%
404
31.8%
46.9%
Butyl
191
18.6%
211
16.6%
10.5%
Acrylic
148
14.4%
180
14.2%
21.6%
Polyurethane
124
12.1%
167
13.1%
34.7%
Polysulfide
88
8.6%
76
6.0%
-13.6%
Oil Based
35
3.4%
35
2.8%
0.0%
Asphaltic
33
3.2%
38
3.0%
15.2%
Other
135
13.1%
159
12.5%
17.8%
TOTAL
1,029
100.0%
1,270
100.0%
23.4%
Source: Reference 3.
-------
Liquid polymers dry by exposure to moisture or air, or with the help of a curing agent. These
sealants do not actually "dry" but rather cure or crosslink and react with terminal groups, increasing the
molecular weight of the polymer until It becomes more elastic. Two-part sealants are mixed just prior to
application to prevent premature curing. Typical constituents include fillers, plasticizers, curing agents,
additives, and solvents. The amount and type of each component varies among sealants. Potential
volatile components include solvents, plasticizers, additives, and volatile by-products that form when the
sealant crosslinks or reacts.
Tapes and foams are usually 100% solids formulations. Postformed tapes are thermoplastic
materials that are heated and poured into a joint opening. The material returns to its original state upon
cooling and forms a seal. Preformed tapes are either 100% solids-cured systems or noncuring
permanently tacky polymers.
Natural sealants dry in various ways and their emissions potential is comparable to that of
synthetic sealants, based on their polymer types and curing method. Oleoresinous sealants cure by
oxidation and crosslinking and, therefore, have an emissions potential similar to that of liquid polymers.
Asphaltics are solvent-diluted, emulsion, or thermoplastic hot pour systems, which are similar to
synthetic solid polymer, emulsions, and 100% solids systems.
Most of the specific constituent data were obtained from a study of sealants and caulks done by
the Saskatchewan Research Council in Canada.5,6 This study reports constituent data for sealants
based on their resin base, which fits into the classification scheme presented in Figure 6-1 quite well.
The constituent data obtained from other sources usually supported those found in the Saskatchewan
study, although the level of detail varied. For Instance, one reference might list "plasticizer" as a
constituent, where another would list a specific plasticizer. Some constituents were listed as trade
names when no other information was available.
Each resin type requires certain types of solvents, plasticizers, and other additives to formulate a
sealant. For instance, silicone sealants can only use silicone oils and silicone fluids as plasticizers. It is
possible to use this information to assess which types of chemicals may off-gas from a particular
sealant.
6.3 Emissions Information
Most of the emissions data for sealants were also obtained from the study done by the
Saskatchewan Research Council.5,6 One or two sealants of each resin type were tested in an
environmental chamber, and the emissions were recorded in milligrams per gram of sealant. A total of
6-9
-------
twenty tests representing different sealant products were performed. Analysis of the chemicals in the
off-gas was limited to identifying common solvents used in sealant formulations found in all types of
sealants. Therefore, the test results for each sealant usually listed only one or two chemicals and their
emission factors. Sampling was done using activated charcoal sampling tubes accompanied by gas
chromatography. The test chamber was maintained at approximately 80°F and 50% relative humidity.
In all 20 tests, only four specific chemicals and two general chemical groups were measured.
The specific chemicals included toluene, xylene, hexane, and methyl ethyl ketone; the chemicals groups
were petroleum and aliphatic hydrocarbons. In most cases, the specific chemicals listed as emissions
data matched up with one of the sealant constituents. The chemical groups usually represented one or
more of the constituent solvents.
Although these chemicals and chemical groups represent the most typical solvents used with
sealants and also have high emissions potential, they are not the only emissions of concern. Each
sealant has a unique formulation because the resin base requires particular additives. Along with
plasticizers and other volatile ingredients, there are less common solvents used to formulate sealants.
Toxic by-products may also form when a resin crosslinks and cures. The Saskatchewan study did not
analyze the off-gas emissions for a number of constituents that may present potential indoor air
concerns.
6.4 Data Tables
The following data tables summarize information identified in the literature relating to the caulks
and sealants product category. Only VOCs are presented in these data tables; components such as
nonvolatile inert ingredients, fillers, and inorganics that may be constituents of a product are not
included. Each VOC is identified as a constituent or an emission. In many cases, compounds were
identified in the literature as constituents, but had not specifically been identified through emissions
testing. In addition, a few compounds were identified as being emitted from a product, but not listed as
a constituent. In these cases, emissions may be the result of a chemical reaction within the product.
Emission rates are presented for those compounds that were identified in the literature as being
emitted. These rates are presented as ranges where multiple emission rates were identified.
Chemicals that are hazardous air pollutants (as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended in
November, 1990), carcinogens, or which have a threshold limit value established are designated by an
"H", "C", or'T", respectively, in the column following the chemical.
6-10
-------
Full reference citations for all information presented in the tables are included at the end of the
section. The appendix at the end of this section presents additional information, where available,
concerning test conditions for literature cited.
The tables summarize the constituent and emissions data gathered for various sealants. The
tables contain a good representation of typical sealant constituents. Unfortunately, the emissions
information is not as complete.
In some instances, emissions are reported for compounds not listed as constituents. There are
several explanations for this discrepancy, including:
• The emitted compounds are listed in more generic or specific terms than the constituent
compound (i.e., benzene or aromatic hydrocarbon).
• The emissions data were obtained from a different source than the constituent data.
• Crosslinking or some type of reaction produced a volatile by-product that is not a
constituent (i.e., the curing agent used with some phenolic resins, hexamethylene
tetramine, breaks down into ammonia and formaldehyde upon exposure to heat and
moisture1).
6-11
-------
ORGANIZATION OF DATA TABLES
NATURAL-BASED SEALANTS
Natural Oil-Based Sealants 6-13
Natural Bituminous-Based 6-14
SYNTHETIC-BASED SEALANTS
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber 6-15
Emulsions 6-21
Liquid Polymer 6-24
Tapes and Foams 6-30
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES 6-35
6-12
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Sealants/Caulks
Chapter Natural Oil Base Product Oleoresinous
SIC 28917-11 SIC 28917-11
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales $3.5E+07
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
039
0.11
0.68
mg/g sealant*
5
Linseed Oil
8001-26-1
X
6
Mineral Spirits
X
6
Polybutene
9003-29-6
X
6
Soya Fatty Acid
X
6
Soybean Oil
X
6
Tall Oil Fatty Acid
8002-26-4
X
6
Vegetable Fatty Acid
X
6
ND - No data.
*This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Sealants/Caulks
Chapter Natural Bituminous Base Product Asphaltic
SIC 28917-21 SIC 28917-21
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Asphalt
8052-42-4
X
6
Asphalt Emulsion
X
6
Ester Gum
X
6
Petroleum Hydrocarbons
0.564
0.2
0.93
mg/g sealant*
5
Reclaimed Rubber
X
6
ND - No data.
*This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Sealants/Caulks
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber Product Acrylic
2891 SIC 2891
ND Usage/Sales $1.48E+08
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Mln
Max
Units
Acrylic
X
1,6
Dimethyl Formamide
T
68-12-2
X
6
Ethylene Glycol
H,T
107-21-1
X
1.6
Pine Oil
X
1,6
Thixotropic Agent
X
6
Xylene
H,T
1330-20-7
X
1.18
0.33
2.03
mg/g sealant*
1,5
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
"This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
Chapter
SIC
Usage/Sales
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Sealants/Caulks
Chapter Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber Product Butyl Rubber
SIC 2891 SIC 2891
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales $1.91E+08
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Alcohol
X
6
Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
3.41
0.99
5.83
mg/g sealant*
5
Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
NQ
8
Alkyl Benzenes
NQ
8
Butyl Rubber
X
1.6
Cab-O-SI M5
X
1
Castor Oil
X
6
Ethyl Alcohol
64-17-5
X
1
Isostearic Acid
X
1.6
Methyl Ester
X
1.6
Mineral Spirits
X
1,6
Nonane
T
111-84-2
NQ
8
Octane
T
111-65-9
NQ
8
Octene
25377-83-7
NQ
8
Petroleum Resin
X
1.6
Polybutene
9003-29-6
X
1.6
Polyisobutylene
9003-27-4
X
6
Soya Oil
X
1.6
Vistonex LM-MS
X
1
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
*This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Sealants/Caulks
Chapter Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber Product Chlorosulfonated Polyethylene
SIC 2891 SIC 2891
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
2-Mercaptobenzothiazole
149-30-4
X
1,6
Chlorinated Paraffin
X
1,6
Chlorosulfonated Polyethylene
X
1,6
Dibutyl Sebacate
X
6
Hydrogenated Resin
X
6
Isopropyl Alcohol
T
67-63-0
X
1,6
Lead Maleate
816-68-2
X
6
Petroleum Plasticizer
X
1,6
Rosin
X
1
Tetramethyl Thiuram Disulfide
T
137-26-8
X
1,6
Thixotropic Agent
X
1,6
Tribasic Lead Maleate
X
1
Xylene
H.T
1330-20-7
X
1.036
0.22
1.85
mg/g sealant*
1.5,8
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
*This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Sealants/Caulks
Chapter Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber Product Neoprene Rubber
SIC 2891 SIC 2891
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Butyl Phenol-formaldehyde Resin
X
1.6
Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)
H.T
78-93-3
2.026
0.25
3.8
mg/g sealant*
5
Neoprene Rubber
X
1.6
Petroleum Oil
X
1,6
Toluene
H.T
108-88-3
0.10
0.018
0.19
mg/g sealant*
5
Xylene
H.T
1330-20-7
X
5.38
0.62
14.68
mg/g sealant*
1,5
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
*This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Sealants/Caulks
Chapter Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber Product Nitrile Rubber
SIC 2891 SIC 2891
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Aliphatic Petroleum Distillates
X
6
Alkylphenolic Resin
X
6
Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)
H,T
78-93-3
X
8.23
0.91
15.55
mg/g sealant*
5
Nitrile Rubber
X
6
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
*This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Sealants/Caulks
Chapter Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber Product Styrene Butadiene Rubber
SIC 2891 SIC 2891
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
3.35
0.7
6.01
mg/g sealant*
5
Aromatic Plasticizer
X
1.6
Hexane
H.T
110-54-3
5.24
1.17
9.32
mg/g sealant*
5
Methyl Ester
X
1,6
Rosin
X
1
Styrene Butadiene Rubber
X
1.6
Toluene
H.T
108-88-3
X
1.53
0.23
2.83
mg/g sealant*
1.5
Xylene
H.T
1330-20-7
X
2.41
0.14
7.47
mg/g sealant*
1,5
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
*This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Sealants/Caulks
Chapter Emulsions Product NP
SIC 2891
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
1,1,1 -T richloroethane
H.T
71-55-6
4.9
ug/m3-hr
10
2-Butoxyethanol
T
111-76-2
NQ
11
Aciphatic and Aromatic
Hydrocarbons
NQ
8
Aliphatic and Oxygenated Aliphatics
126.13
0.25
252
ug/m3-hr
10
Aliphatic and Oxygenated Aliphatic
Organics
251
ug/m2-hr
8
Aromatic Hydrocarbons
380
ug/m3-hr
8,10
Benzene
C.H.T
71-43-2
NQ
11
Butanol
T
71-36-3
NQ
11
Butyl Propionate
590-01-2
NQ
11
Halogenated Hydrocarbons
5.2
ug/m3-hr
8,10
Halogenated Organics
5
ug/m2-hr
8
Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)
H.T
78-93-3
NQ
11
Toluene
H,T
108-88-3
NQ
11
Trichloroethylene
H,T
79-01-6
0.3
ug/m3-hr
10
Volatile Aromatic Hydrocarbons
380.9
ug/m2-hr
8
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NP - No product.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Sealants/Caulks
Chapter Emulsions Product Acrylic
SIC 2891 SIC 2891
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ret
Average
Min
Max
Units
Acrylic Latex
X
1,6
Dispersant
X
6
Ethylene Glycol
H.T
107-21-1
X
NQ
6,8
Methylcellulose
9004-67-5
X
6
Mineral Spirits
X
1
Napco NXZ
X
6
Petroleum Aliphatic Solvent
X
6
Petroleum Hydrocarbons
0.114
0.023
0.205
mg/g sealant*
5
Plasticizer
X
6
Polyacrylate Dispersant
X
6
Polyether Alcohol
X
6
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
*This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Sealants/Caulks
Chapter Emulsions Product Polyvinyl Acetate
SIC 2891 SIC 2891
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Hydroxyethyl Cellulose
X
1,6
Polyvinyl Acetate
9003-20-7
X
6
Propylene Glycol
57-55-6
X
1,6
Vinyl Acetate
H.T
108-05-4
X
1
Xylene
H.T
1330-20-7
X
1,6
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Sealants/Caulks
Chapter Liquid Polymer Product Epoxy Resin
SIC 2891 SIC 2891
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Epoxy Resin
X
1.7
Lancast A
X
7
Methylenediamine
H
2372-88-5
X
7
Santocel
X
7
Thiokol LP-3
X
1
Toluene
H.T
108-88-3
X
1
Triethylene Tetramine
112-24-3
X
1
Trimethylaminomethyl Phenol
X
1
Triphenyl Phosphate
T
115-86-6
X
7
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Sealants/Caulks
Chapter Liquid Polymer Product Polybutene
SIC 2891 SIC 2891
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Mineral Spirits
X
6
Petroleum Hydrocarbons
1.29
0.33
2.25
mg/g sealant*
5
Polybutene
9003-29-6
X
6
Soya Fatty Acids
X
6
Tall Oil Fatty Acids
8002-26-4
X
6
ND - No data.
*This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Sealants/Caulks
Chapter Liquid Polymer
SIC 2891
Usage/Sales ND
Product Polyisobutylene
SIC 2891
Usage/Sales ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max
Units
Ref
Polyisobutylene
9003-27-4
X
1
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Sealants/Caulks
Chapter Liquid Polymer Product Polysulfide
SIC 2891 SIC 2891
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales $8.8E+07
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Chlorinated Terphenyl
X
6
Dibutyl Phthalate
H.T
84-74-2
X
6
Gamma-aminopropyltriethoxy Silane
X
1,6
Glycolate Esters
X
1
Lithopone
1345-05-7
X
6
Methylan
X
6
Phenolic Resin
X
1,6
Phthalate Plasticizer
X
1
Plasticizer
X
1,6
Polysulfide
X
1.6
Soya Oil
X
1,6
Stearic Acid
57-11-4
X
1,6
Toluene
H,T
108-88-3
X
0.24
0.06
0.42
mg/g sealant*
5
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
*This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Sealants/Caulks
Chapter Liquid Polymer Product Polyurethane
SIC 2891 SIC 2891
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales $1.24E+08
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
1,2,4-Trimethylpiperazine
120-85-4
X
6
Aromatic Hydrocarbons
0.00013
mg/m3-hr
8,10
Dibutyl Tin Di-2-ethylhexoate
2781-10-4
X
6
Mineral Spirits
X
6
Polyethylene Glycol-lsocyanate
Prepolymer
X
6
Polypropylene Glycol
25322-69-4
X
6
Propylene Triol
X
6
Stannous Octoate
T
X
6
Toluene
H.T
108-88-3
X
6
Toluene Diisocyanate (TDI)
H.T
584-84-9
X
6
Xylene
H.T
1330-20-7
0452
0.112
0.792
mg/g sealant*
5
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
*This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Sealants/Caulks
Chapter Liquid Polymer Product Silicone
SIC 2891 SIC 2891
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales $2.75E+08
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
2-Butoxyethanol
T
111-76-2
NQ
8
Benzene
C.H.T
71-43-2
NQ
8
Butanol
T
71-36-3
NQ
8
Butyl Propionate
590-01-2
NQ
8
Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK)
H,T
78-93-3
NQ
8
Toluene
H.T
108-88-3
NQ
8
Total Organics
26
2
50
mg/m2-hr
8
Xylene
H.T
1330-20-7
0.077
0.0097
0.14
mg/g sealant*
5
Total Volatile Organic Compounds
7.5
<2
13
mg/hr
9
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
•This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Sealants/Caulks
Chapter Tapes and Foams Product Butyl Rubber
SIC 28917 SIC 28917-71
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales $1.91E+08
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Alkyl-Phenol Resin
X
1
Butyl Rubber
X
1,6
Naphthenic Rubber Process Oil
X
1
Paraffinic Process Oil
X
1
Poly DNB
X
1
Polybutene
9003-29-6
X
1,6
Polyethylene
9002-88-4
X
1
Polypropylene
9003-07-0
X
1
Solvents
X
1
Terpene Phenolic Resin
X
1
Vistanex MM L-100
X
1
ND - No data
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Sealants/Caulks
Chapter Tapes and Foams Product Polybutene
SIC 28917 SIC 28917-71
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
Polybutene
9003-29-6
X
1,6
Tall Oil Fatty Acid
8002-26-4
X
1,6
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Sealants/Caulks
Chapter Tapes and Foams Product Polyisobutylene
SIC 28917 SIC 28917-71
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max
Units
Ref
Polybutene
9003-29-6
X
1
Polyisobutylene
9003-27-4
X
1
Rosin Ester
X
1
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Sealants/Caulks
Chapter Tapes and Foams Product Polyurethane Foam
SIC 2891 SIC 2891
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
2-Propanone
T
67-64-1
NQ
12
C6 Saturated and Unsaturated
Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
NQ
12
Dichlorodifluoromethane
T
75-71-8
X
6
Dichlorofluoromethane
T
75-43-4
X
6
Polyether Polyol
X
6
Polymeric Isocyanate
X
6
Trichlorof luoromethane
T
75-69-4
X
6
Xylene
H.T
1330-20-7
X
NQ
12
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Sealants/Caulks
Chapter Tapes and Foams Product Thermoplastic Rubber
SIC 2891 SIC 2891
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Mln
Max
Units
Asphalt
8052-42-4
X
1
Plasticizing Oil
X
1
Polybutene
9003-29-6
X
1
Polystyrene Rubber
9003-53-6
X
1
ND - No data.
-------
Sealants/Caulks
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Jennings, et al., 1988
Chamber Study
Activated Charcoal
GC
Value
Min | Max i Units
RH
50
%
Temp
23
' °C
ACH
0.75
Testina Duration
0.51 48
hr
Comment: Sampling begins 100 minutes after
the sample is placed in the chamber.
8 Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Baechler, et al., 1990
Chamber Study
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
%
Temp
°C
ACH
i
Testina Duration
0.5
5
hr
Comment: Samples are either aged 0.5, 1, 5, or
24 hours before vapors are collected.
9 Reference: Levin, 1989
Test Method: Chamber Study
Sampling Method:
Analysis Method: GC/MS or GC/FID
i
Value
Min l Max
Units
RH
i
%
Temp
°C
I ACH
i
Testing Duration
30
min
Comment: Sampling times are either > 10 hours
or 10-100 hours.
6-35
-------
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES
(Continued)
10 Reference: Wallace, et al., 1987
Test Method: Headspace/Chamber Study
Sampling Method: Tenax GC Cartridges
Analysis Method: GC/FID
Value
Min | Max ' Units
RH
48
I %
Temp
¦ 251
°C
ACH
|
Testing Duration
Comment:
New office building.
11 Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Tichenor, 1987
Headspace/Chamber Study
Tenax Charcoal
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
%
Temp
23
35
°C
ACH
0.25 2
hr"1
Testing Duration
i
Comment: Sample is taken after approximately
30 minutes.
12 Reference: NASA, 1986
Test Method: Chamber Study
Sampling Method:
Analysis Method: GC/MS/IS
Value
Min
Max
Units
|RH
%
Temp
120
op
ACH !
Testing Duration 72
hr
Comment: 72± 1 hours before sample is taken.
6-36
I
-------
REFERENCES
1. Skeist, I. Handbook of Adhesives. 3rd Edition, van Nostrand Reinhold, New York, New York.
1990.
2. Frost and Sullivan. The U.S. Market for Caulks and Sealants. Chemical Week. March 4, 1990.
p. 2
3. Cook, J.P. and J.R. Panek. Construction Sealants and Adhesives. John Wiley and Sons,
New York, New York, 1984.
4. Ash, M. and I. Ash. A Formulary of Adhesives and Other Sealants. Chemical Publishing Co.,
Inc., New York, New York. 1987.
5. Jennings, D., D. Eyre, and M. Small. The Development of a Knowledge Base Relating to Indoor
Use of Caulks, Sealants, and Weatherstrip Products, Volume IV: The Safety Categorization of
Sealants According to their Volatile Emissions. Energy, Mines, and Resources Canada. Catalog
No. M91-11 /1-4-198BE.
6. Jennings, D., D. Eyre, and M. Small. The Development of a Knowledge Base relating to Indoor
Use of Caulks, Sealants, and Weatherstrip Products, Volume II: Draft Standards for Sealing
Workmanship and Caulk and Sealant Performance. Energy, Mines, and Resources Canada.
Catalog No. M91-11/1-2-1988E.
7. Bathe, P. and L. Chalmers. Chemical Specialties, Domestic and Industrial. Leonard Hill,
London. 1979.
8. Baechler, M.C., D.L. Hadley, and T.J. Marseille. Indoor Air Quality Issues Related to the
Acquisition of Conservation in Commercial Buildings. Prepared for the Bonneville Power
Administration by the Pacific Northwest Laboratory under a Related Services Agreement with the
U.S. Department of Energy, Contract DE-AC06-76RLO 1830. September 1990.
9. Levin, H. Building Materials and Indoor Air Quality. Occupational Medicine: State of the Art
Review. 1989.
10. Wallace, L.A., R. Jungers, and L. Sheldon. Emission Rates of Volatile Organic Compounds From
Building Materials and Surface Coatings. ]n: Proceedings of the 1987 EPA/APCA Symposium
on Measurement of Toxic and Related Air Pollutants. Research Triangle Park, North Carolina.
May 1987.
11. Tichenor, B.A. Organic Emission Measurement Via Small Chamber Testing.
EPA/600/D-87/187. U.S. EPA Air and Energy Engineering Research Laboratory, Research
Triangle Park, North Carolina. 1987.
12. NASA Materials Testing Database, Version 3.0. MDAC Houston Software Technology
Development Laboratory. April 1986.
6-37
-------
BIBLIOGRAPHY
Census of Manufactures: Adhesive and Sealant Shipments Total $4.7 Billion; Industry Employment
Hits 21,000 in 1987 Figures. Adhesives Age. February 1990. pp. 32-36.
Gosselin, Smith, and Hodge. Clinical Toxicology of Commercial Products. Williams and Wilkins,
Baltimore, Maryland, 1984.
Miksch, R.R., C D. Hollowell, and H.E. Schmidt. Trace Organic Chemical Contaminants in Office Spaces.
Environ. Int., (8):129-137. 1982.
Molhave, L. Indoor Air Pollution Due to Organic Gases and Vapors of Solvents in Building Materials.
Environ. Int., 8:117-127. 1982.
Sweet's Catalog File: Products for General Building and Renovation. McGraw-Hill, New York, New
York, 1987.
6-38
-------
7.0 PESTICIDE PRODUCTS
7.1 Description of Product Category
The term "pesticide" Is defined to mean "any substance or mixture of substances intended for
preventing, destroying, repelling, or mitigating any Insects, rodents, nematodes, fungi, or weeds, or any
other forms of life declared to be pests...; and any substance or mixture of substances intended for use
as a plant regulator, defoliant or desiccant."1 Based on this definition, this broad category can be
divided into the following subcategories: Insecticides, repellents, fungicides, rodenticldes, and
herbicides. All of these subcategories are potential sources of Indoor air emissions because the
products can be stored or used inside homes. However, the scope of data-gathering for this Catalog
was limited to indoor household Insecticides, insect repellents, and fungicides used to remove bathroom
mold and mildew. These products have the greatest potential to Impact indoor air quality because of
their extensive use in households and the toxicity of their constituents. Products excluded from this
Catalog Include agricultural chemicals (fertilizers, Insecticides, herbicides, and fungicides used by
farmers), commercial extermlnants and termiticides (Including those applied during building
construction), rodenticldes, herbicides, plant fungicides, and outdoor pesticides. Although these
products were excluded from data-gathering efforts, they are Included In the classification scheme. .
Information concerning pentachlorophenol (PCP) emissions from treated wood and sealed
treated wood will be included In the Wood Products Section in Volume II of this Catalog.
7.1.1 Product Classification
Deciding on an appropriate classification system was difficult because of the variety of pesticide
products. At one point, the classification scheme was divided Into Indoor and outdoor pesticides.
However, although outdoor pesticides could be an indoor air concern (because of indoor storage, etc.),
including both categories would create a scheme too broad to handle In this Catalog, it was decided,
therefore, to focus on indoor pesticides. Classifying according to constituents was also considered, but
the scheme was too complex because of the number of active constituents. Therefore, with the
available Information, It was decided that pesticide products would be classified based on mode of
action/specificity and application methods.
The modes of action of common household pesticides may be classified generally as contact
poisons, stomach poisons, neurological poisons, growth regulators, or combinations. Some pesticides
work on a broad spectrum; that is, they can affect many pests In a variety of situations. Diazlnon Is one
such broad-spectrum insecticide, with the ability to eliminate over 100 different pests. Other pesticides
7-1
-------
are more specific and are designed to control only one or two particular types of pests. The pesticide
mode of action and specificity (targeted pest) are reflected In the Initial division of the product
classification presented in Figure 7-1. insecticides are classified further into products for crawling
insects and products for flying insects. It should be noted, however, that some insecticide products can
be used for both flying and crawling insects.
Pesticides are sold in various forms, such as liquid concentrates (also called emulslfiable
concentrates if oil-based), which must be diluted with water. Others are prediluted in ready-to-use
aerosol cans or trigger sprayers. Some pesticides may be mixed with a powder designed to be applied
as a dust or with a wettabie powder meant to be mixed into a suspension with water. Some are
designed as baits, attracting pests and then delivering poison along with the food. Others are in the
form of foggers (bombs), "no bug" shelf paper, pest strips, granules, tablets, sticks, pet collars, and pet
shampoos. The differences in insecticide application methods vary In the aerosol/nonaerosol divisions.
7.1.2 Product Major Uses
Insecticides are used inside the home to control a variety of crawling and flying insects such as
ants, crickets, spiders, cockroaches, fabric pests (moths), pantry pests (moths or beetles whose larvae
feed on stored food), flies, and siiverfish. Fleas and ticks on pets can be controlled with special
shampoos, dips, or collars. Insect repellents are sprayed or spread on the body to repel mosquitoes,
ticks, and gnats. Mold and mildew in bathrooms can be controlled by spraying walls and floors with
fungicides.
Pesticides are highly complex products made up of essentially two types of Ingredients: active
and inert. An active ingredient in a pesticide Is any ingredient that will prevent, destroy, repel, or
mitigate a pest.2 An inert Ingredient Is any Intentionally added ingredient that lacks active properties;
examples include propeilants, carriers, and fragrances. It is the active component of the pesticide that
determines Its subsequent use. For example, in a household insecticide product there may be only one
active ingredient that targets one specific insect (such as fleas). Another product may contain an active
Ingredient that is effective against a group of insects, such as crawling insects. Still another product
may contain a combination of active Ingredients that will destroy flying as well as crawling insects.
Another factor that affects pesticide product use is the means of application. As mentioned
above, pesticides are available In a variety of forms. Some pesticides may be available in only one
application form, while others may be offered In several forms. Consumers may prefer one form over
another. Table 7-1 contains the most common product forms, active components, their primary Indoor
uses, and target insects.1,3,4
7-2
-------
I. Insecticides*
A. Crawling Insects
1. Aerosols
2. Nonaerosols
B. ^Flying Insects
1. Aerosols
2. Nonaerosols
II. Insect repellents (includes attractants for Insects, birds, fish, and other animals)8
III. Fungicides
A. Household mildew remover®
B. Fungicides for plants
IV. Rodentlcides
V. Herbicides
VI. Household pesticldal preparations, including commercial exterminants and termiticides
VII. Outdoor pesticides
a Only these products are discussed In this catalog.
Figure 7-1. Classification of Pesticide Products
7.1.3 Sales and Production
According to a 1976 - 1977 National Household Pesticide Usage Study, 83.7% of households
used pesticides.5 These pesticides Included outdoor Insecticides and fungicides, and herbicides.
However, the use of certain pesticides appears to be decreasing. According to one source, this may be
due to the fact that while the insecticide industry has created products that have reduced the Insect
population, It has failed to create the perception that Its products are safe and environmentally sound.6
Over the last five years, the percentage of households using insecticides has fallen from 59% to 50%.6
Also, weather can affect insecticide use. For example, a nationwide drought in 1988, which Inhibited the
growth of insects, was reflected In lower insecticide saJes that year. According to another source,
the overall growth of the consumer pesticide Industry over the past few years can be attributed to price
increases and some shift in use from homeowners to professional applicators, as opposed to expanded
product volume.7
7-3
-------
Table 7-1
Pesticide Product Forms, Active Components,
Indoor Uses, and Target Insects1-3 4
Product Form
Active Components
Moor Household UM»
Target Enacts
EC
Aoephate
Primarily an outdoor insecticide, but is
also used (or Indoor cockroach control.
Crawling
B
e
Amldino hydrazone (Combat )
Control of ants and cockroaches.
Crawling
D
Boric Add
Control of cockroaches, ants, and
silverflsh.
Crawling
B, D, F, G, WP
Flea collars
Carbaryt (Sevln*)
Control of insects on plants. Also used
for household pests and in flea dusts
and flea collars.
Crawling
A, D, EC, G
Diazirwn
Control of ants, cockroaches, and other
crawling Insects.
Crawling
A, RL
Hydroprene (Gencor*)
Control of cockroaches.
Crawling
WP, EC, D, B, G, A
Malathion
Control of most crawling insects.
Crawling
A, RL
Fogger
Methoprene (Precor*)
Control of fleas.
Crawling
EC, WP, G, D, A
Methoxychlor
Control of pantry pests.
Crawling
B
N-ethyl perfluorooctane-
sulfonamlde
Control of ants and cockroaches.
Crawling
EC, A
No pest strips
Dichlorvos (DDVP)
Control of flying insects.
Flying
Moth balls, flakes, or
nuggets
Paradlchlorobenzene
Control of moths.
Flying
A, EC, D, G, RL
Flea oollars
Chlorpyrifos (Dursban*)
Control of mosquitoes, cockroaches,
crickets, ticks, fleas, fabric and pantry
pests, and spiders.
Crawling, flying
EC, B, WP, A
Fogger, roach tape,
shetf paper
Propoxur (Baygon*)
Control of cockroaches, ants, flies,
mosquitoes.
Crawling, flying
EC, D, WP, A
Pyrethrins/pyiethrolds,
(resmethrin, permethrin,
tetramethrin, sumithrin)
Control of primarily flying insects; fabric
protection (moths); pet sprays and
shampoos for fleas.
Crawling, Hying
RL
Sodium hypochlorite
Removes bathroom mold and mildew.
Fungicides
A, RL
Stick
N,N-dlethy1-meta-toluamlde
(Deet)
Insect repellent
Ftepellents
A * Aerosol
B « Bait
D ¦ Dust
EC » EmulsJflable concentrate
F = Flowable
G = Granular
RL - Ready-to-use liquid
WP - Wettable powder
7-4
-------
One facet of the pesticide market has shown a significant Increase. The Increased media
coverage of Lyme disease (carried by deer ticks) pushed retail sales of Insect repellents up by more
than 50% In 1990; sales increased an additional 9.1% In 1990 to reach $57.5 million.8 Product shipment
value of repellents and attractants for various insects and animals was $56 million in 1987.9
Sales/usage data for crawling and flying Insects and repellents are summarized in Table 7-2.9
From this information, it appears more insecticides for crawling insects are produced than for flying
insects. Household insecticide sales for 1990 and projected sales for 1991 through 1995 can be found
In Table 7-3.6 It should be noted that these numbers likely include professional applicator use. Retail
sales of household Insecticides grew 5% In 1990 to $393 mlllon, and sales are expected to grow 3.5%
per year to $465 million In 1995. Aerosols are the largest segment of the household Insecticide market,
with a 74.3% share. Liquids account for 12.7% of sales and solids, 13%. It is expected that aerosols
and liquids will grow 3% per year through 1995. and solids, 6%.
An additional source of sales data is a database called the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and
Rodenticide Act (FIFRA) and Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Enforcement System (FATES),
initiated as a project by the EPA Office of Enforcement, Pesticide and Toxic Substances Enforcement
Division; it contains brand-name, product-specific production numbers for 1988.10-12 However, this
information is classified as confidential business information (CBI), so FIFRA clearance would be
necessary to obtain and report these data.
72. Major Constituents of Concern
As stated previously, pesticides are highly complex products made up of essentially two types of
constituents: active and inert. Because of the proprietary nature of inert ingredients, less information
was available for these than for active components. The major active constituents of pesticide products
have changed over the years. The first pesticides were Inorganic compounds such as sulfur, arsenic, or
mercury, which controlled pests but couid also be deadly to people. Plant-derived poisons such as
rotenone and pyrethrins were discovered in the early nineteenth century. The first of the synthetic
organic pesticides were introduced in the 1940s. These compounds, such as dichlorod (phenyl
trichloroethane (DDT), were classified as chlorinated hydrocarbons. In the 1950s, the organophosphates
were introduced. Organophosphates, such as malathlon and diazlnon, are derivatives of phosphoric
acid that break down Into harmless compounds more quickly than do chlorinated hydrocarbons. These
were followed in the late 1950s by the carbamates, such as propoxur, which are derivatives of carbamlc
acid and do not persist for long periods of time. The more recent pesticide compounds are synthetic
pyrethrins called pyrethrofds, which are more effective and longer lasting than the botanical pyrethrins.4
Most Indoor consumer Insecticides used today contain pyrethrins/pyrethrolds, carbamates, or
7-5
-------
Table 7-2
1987 Sales/Usage Data
Product
Product Shipment Value
(In millions of $)
Insecticides (crawling insects)
Aerosols
Nonaerosols
155.7
86.1
Insecticides (flying insects)
Aerosols
Nonaerosols
167.4
41.1
Repellents arid attractants
58.0
Source: Reference 9.
Table 7-3
Household Insecticide Sales for 1990 and
Projected Sales for 1991-1995
(In millions of $)
Year
Aerosol
Liquid
Solid
Total'
1995
339.7
58.2
67.5
465.3
1994
329.8
56.5
65.5
451.8
1993
317.1
54.8
60.8
432.7
1992
304.1
52.8
55.9
412.8
-1991
297.2
51.7
52.2
401.1
1990
292.5
50.3
51.0
393.8
Source: Reference 6.
7-6
-------
organophosphates. The primary chemical found in household mildew removers is sodium hypochlorite,
a fungicide. It Is often found in combination with sodium carbonate (soda ash), which acts as a
disinfectant. Insect repellents are usually composed of a chemical called Deet.
Inert constituents have also changed over the years. Ruorlnated hydrocarbons and many of the
chlorinated solvents that were once popular in aerosols are no longer used because of their potential
toxicity and reactivity.2
The FATES database, based on a survey of pesticide formulators, may be a potential source of
active constituent information. The database contains priority pollutants found in pesticide
formulations.12 Priority pollutants are 126 EPA-ldentlfled toxic pollutants found in industrial wastewater.
However, because priority pollutants are chemicals of concern for water pollution, it would be necessary
to extrapolate the data (perhaps compare the priority pollutant list to the hazardous air pollutants list) to
determine the applicability to indoor air emissions.
7.2.1 Pesticide FomuJations
Pestlcidal chemicals (active ingredients) are usually manufactured In concentrations of
80 - 99+%.13 In order to obtain a biologically effective but safe pesticide product, dilution of the
technical active Ingredient with inert materials and necessary additives Is performed by a formulator.
Most pesticides are formulated In plants separate from the site where active ingredients are
manufactured. The final concentrations of the active component In an aerosol pesticide usually range
from about 0.1% to 0.5%.14 Every time a formulator Includes a "new constituent" (active, inert, or
additive) in a product, it must first to registered by EPA. This requires the formulator to submit all
toxicity data, efficacy data, other test results, and sample labels to EPA. One of the reasons there are
so few "new* insecticide constituents Is the lengthy EPA scrutiny, it is estimated that ft takes
approximately five years from the point a new product undergoes initial lab work to when it appears on
the shelf.14
Active Ingredients
Active ingredients in a pesticide product are Identified on the label.15,16 In fact, most of the
constituent data on active Ingredients for this Catalog were obtained from product labels. The rest of
the information was found in reference materials.17"24 The constituent data are presented in Section 7.3
of this Catalog.
7-7
-------
The number of active constituents in indoor consumer pesticide products is actually quite
limited. In fact, about 95% of all indoor insecticides are made from about 10 active components.14 The
same active Ingredient may be used In a number of different products. For example, propoxur is
contained In wasp foggers, ant and roach aerosols, flying and crawling Insect aerosols, and "no-bug"
shelf paper. The active Ingredients are usually the same among different brands of pesticides. The
constituent data on active ingredients included in this Catalog are, therefore, quite complete.
One of the trends for future pesticide products Is reformulating conventional products, for
example, substituting water bases for petroleum bases and adding scents. Most liquid and aerosol
insecticide products are now water-based, except for ant and roach sprays, which are still mainly
oil-based.14 Water-based ant and roach insecticides are available on the market; however, without
petroleum distillates and solvents {which provide a quicker killing response), these water-based products
are not as popular with consumers.14 Various technologies, Including recombinant DNA methods,
bioprocessing, and ceil biology Innovations, will result In new "natural" pesticides. Viruses,
bacteria/fungi, synthetic hormones (pheromones), regulatory/messenger-control chemicals, and other
microorganisms will eventually be used for alternative insecticides.22'25,26
Substances that have recently been developed and that destroy target Insects without harming
humans or other animals are called Insect growth regulators {IGRs).22 These chemicals, such as
methoprene and hydroprene, are very effective against the egg/larval and immature stages of insects
such as fleas and roaches. Their low volatility and low toxicity are advantages from an Indoor air
standpoint; however, because of their slow-acting property, IGRs are not suitable for destroying flying
insects.
The discovery or rejection of specific active ingredients for pesticide products depends on
continuing research. For example, the active Ingredient in one roach bait, hydramethylnon, was first
investigated as a possible treatment for malaria.23 Just recently, EPA urged women of childbearing age
to avoid using an Insect repellent linked to birth defects In test animals 24 This suspect chemical,
2-ethyt-l,3-hexanediol, Is found In one repellent currently in use; another manufacturer who previously
used the chemical is recalling existing stocks.
Inert Ingredients and Additives
Only a small percentage of a concentrated pesticide product is actually active Ingredient (often
measured in parts per million). The rest, sometimes 99% or greater, are inert Ingredients. The Inert
constituents are not all identified Individually on pesticide product labels but are usually grouped under
the term "inerts." The term "inert* Ingredients does not necessarfly mean the chemicals are innocuous,
7-0
-------
only that they lack the property of the active components. In the case of insecticides, the inerts lack the
ability to kill Insects. Inert Ingredients may be carrying agents, solvents, adjuvants, emuisrflers, wetting
agents, dluents, surfactants, stabilizers, or conditioning agents.18
There are approximately 1,200 Inert Ingredients In pesticide formulations.2 However, identifying
inert components in specific pesticide products is difficult because of the proprietary nature of that
information. Many factors, such as trial and error techniques, are involved in the development and
optimization of a successful formulation. Therefore, the composition of a formulation is usually
considered confidential. In some cases, the formulator may not be aware of the Identity of all the Inert
ingredients, especially perfumes.14 This is because the formulator obtains a number of Inert ingredients
from different suppliers who market them as 'proprietary inerts," although they are disclosed to EPA in
the CSF and are included In the health and safety testing of a product prior to acceptance for
registration.2
Hydrocarbon blends used as solvents In ant and roach aerosols are usually nonaromatic
compounds. The blends may have specific names but the exact percentage of each hydrocarbon may
not be known by the formulators, only by the supplier.14 Hydrocarbon blends used as propellants in
flying insect aerosols usually contain hydrocarbons such as butane and propane.
Flying insect aerosols are predominantly water-based.14 Because of the water content, these
formulations are more complicated to develop and produce. This Is due to the need for Inerts and
additional ingredients such as surfactants, perfumes, corrosion inhibitors (to prevent the can from
rusting), and their interactions with the water. Preservatives found In liquid sprays prevent bacterial
growth in the container.
Synergists In pesticides are not classified as Inert components but are added to pesticides to
increase the killing efficiency of the active ingredients. With the addition of a synergist, less active
Ingredients are required in a formulation. The most widely used synergist In consumer Insecticides is
piperony! butoxide.14
Because of concern that some inert ingredients in pesticide products might cause adverse
effects to humans or the environment, EPA developed a regulatory policy for inert Ingredients, which
was published in the Federal Register in 1987.2 The EPA divided the approximately 1200 Inert
ingredients contained in pesticide products into four toxicity categories. Lists 1 and 2 contain Inerts of
toxlcologlcal or potential toxicologlcaJ concern. Inerts of unknown toxicity or minimal concern are found
in Usts 3 and 4. According to one insecticide formulator, List 1 chemicals can be used In pesticides as
long as there is a warning on the product label, but most of the constituents (such as chlorinated
7-9
-------
solvents) are no longer used In these products at all.14 The lists contained In the Federal Register notice
are a source of inert components but were not Included in the Catalog database because it could not be
determined which of these Inerts were currently In use, and which inerts were found in indoor consumer
pesticides. It should be noted that some chemicals, such as the pyrethrins/pyrethroids, are identified in
List 1 of the notice as inert Ingredients, but are also active ingredients. This Is because a chemical may
be present in a pesticide formulation to act against some pest, although not necessarily the pest
targeted by the formulation. For example, an ingredient normally considered active may be added to a
rodent bait to repel flies; the chemical Is not active against rodents so it Is classified as Inert.
Because most Inert ingredients are not Identified specifically on product labels, the majority of
inert constituent data were obtained from references and contacts. The data tables in Section 7.3 do not
differentiate between active and Inert constituents; however, Table 7-4 provides a summary of the more
common inerts and additives found in pesticides, and. if known, their function (emulsifier, propellant,
etc.) and product form (aerosol, liquid, etc.).1'2-4'14"16-18'21,27
7.3 Emissions Inlmi nation
A review of the references Identified to date revealed that studies pertaining to consumer
pesticide products and Indoor air targeted active rather than Inert pesticide Ingredients.27"49 One study
sampled for over 30 different household pesticides (Including outdoor and commercial) In homes In two
U.S. test locations over three seasons.3,19 Other studies targeted acephate, diazlnon, chlorpyrifos, and
dlchlorvos. No emissions data were found for fungicides and Insect repellents.
The pesticide studies described in the reviewed literature were conducted in test houses in
which concentrations of active pesticide components were measured. The pesticide levels were usually
found in the microgram-to mililgram-per-cubic-meter range.30
7-10
-------
Table 7-4
Common inert Constituents and Additives Found in Consumer Pesticides
Inert Ingredient/Additive
Function
Product Form
Sulfated a!kylphenoxypoly-(ethyleneoxy)-ethanoi
sodium or ammonium salts
Adjuvant
-
2-ethyM -hexand
Solvent and adjuvant
—
Sodium salts of fatty acid amide sulfonates
Olspersant and wetting agent
—
Ethane
Carrier
A
-
Corrosion inhibitor
A
Dimethylpoly-siloxane
Defoamer
A
DlchJorodrfluoromethane
Propeilant
A
Isobutane
Propeilant
A
/i-Butane
Propeilant
A
Carbon dioxide
Propeilant
A
Propane
PropellarTt
A
Dicarboximlde
Synergist
A
N-octyl blcycloheptene
Synergist
A
Plperonyl butoxlde
Synergist
A, L
Water
CarTier/diluent
A, I
Ugnosulfonates
Dlspersant
A, L
Tridecyloxpoly (ethyleneoxy) ethanol
Emulsffler
A, L
Alkylated naphthalenes
Solvent
A. L
Toluene
Solvent
A, L
Methyl, ethyl, and Isopropyt alcohol
Solvent
A, L
Cyclohexanone
Solvent
A, L
Kerosene
Solvent
A, L
Mineral oH
Solvent
A, L
Xylenes
Solvent
A, L
Petroleum distillates
Solvent
A, L
Polyoxyethytated vegetable oil
Surfactant
A, L
Di-1-p-menthene
Sticker-spreader
D
Soda ash
Disinfectant
L
7-11
-------
Table 7-4
(Continued)
Inert Ingredient/Additive
Function
Product Form
—
Preservative
L
Paper
Carrier
S
-
Fragrance
S, A, L, D |
Kaolin
Carrler/dPuent
S, D
Diatomaceous earth
Carrier /d fluent
S, D
Gypsum
Conditioner/carrier
S. D
Calcium carbonate
Conditioner/extender
S, 0
Magnesium carbonate
Deslccant
S, D
Bentonite
Granular carrier
S, D
_
Base (used to neutralize
acidic formulations)
S, L, A
A = Aerosol
S * Solid
L = Liquid
~ = Dust
- * Not available
One study measured the concentration of a pesticide over a two-week period after baseboard
spraying.43 Another study tested the distribution of a pesticide throughout a house over a 35-day period
after application.47 The indoor and outdoor concentrations of a pesticide In a test house were measured
and compared In another study.49 Still other studies measured the pesticide concentrations from pest
control strips over various periods of time.36,40,44 One of the most comprehensive and recent studies
using test homes to measure concentrations of active ingredients was the Nonoccupational Pesticide
Exposure Study from 1990.3,19,48 This study examined levels of 32 pesticides In hundreds of homes In
two cities over a period of one year or more. The EPA determined that emissions were low enough so
that the non-cancer risks were generally low, and the cancer risks were In a range the Agency generally
considers negligible with the possible exception of heptachlor and aldrin,' two pesticides no longer in
use.3
Air samples for most of the test houses were collected using portable air pumps to draw air
through a polyurethane foam (PUF) plug. Pesticide concentrations were determined by analyzing the
PUF plugs by GC or GC/MS. No reference studies were located that measured pesticide product
7-12
-------
emissions using test chambers. One reason for this may be that a majority of household pesticides are
In aerosol form and chamber testing Is not appropriate for products such as aerosol sprays.49 Sampling
from aerosols and controlling sample quantity can be quite difficult.
Quantifying typical* emissions for pesticide products is difficult because emissions vary
depending on the product's active ingredients, formulation, application method, and user conditions.
However, most consumer pesticides exhibit high initial concentrations after application, with
concentrations declining over time. Consumer pesticides eventually degrade to form nontoxic materials
such as carbon dioxide and water.14 The rate of decline is partially due to the type and volatility of the
active constituent found in the product. Generally it can be said that pyrethrins/pyrethroids degrade
fastest, then carbamates, and then organophosphates. One study revealed that diazinon (an
organophosphate) concentrations peaked within 24 hours, decreased with time, but were still
measurable 35 days after application.31 A study of dichlorvos pest strips, which continually emit the
insecticide, showed a decline from 60 ^g/m3 one hour after Installation to 10 ^g/m3 after 56 days.30
These plastic resin strips are very volatile, and it is suggested that the strips not be used where food,
people, or pets may contact the vapors for long uninterrupted periods.4
Comparing vapor pressures of active pesticide constituents in consumer products may not be a
reliable means of determining volatility because the active Ingredients combined with water, emulsifiers,
arid other inert ingredients wil have a joint vapor pressure that may or may not be similar to that, of the
active constituent alone. Therefore, the combination of Ingredients in a formulation affect volatility and
subsequent emissions.
The application form of pesticide products is the major determinant of indoor air emissions.
Using an aerosol for flying insects produces an initially high pesticide concentration, which dissipates to
negligible amounts within 24 hours.14 Crawling Insect aerosols and liquid sprays will also produce a
high concentration initially but small amounts of the active component may linger for as long as 60 days.
The DDVP pest strips are the most volatile of the pesticide products. Studies have shown initially high
pesticide concentrations, with detection levels after 30 to 50 days.30 These strips are not nearly as
popular as in past years, and one of the major Insecticide manufacturers no longer produces them.14
Baits volatilize very slowly over long periods of time. The active ingredients In dusts are bound to the
solid materials in the formulation, and are not volatile.14
Another variable that affects pesticide product emissions Is the user environment. Studies
revealed that airborne emissions are directly proportional to air flow.33 Homes having the poorest
ventilation have the highest levels of air contamination.30 The size of a room, the number of windows
and doors, whether the windows are open or closed, and whether there is air conditioning or heating all
7-13
-------
influence the concentration of pesticides after application. The season of the year and the geographical
location of a home can also affect pesticide indoor emissions. It has been shown that the higher the
temperature, the higher the pesticide concentration In a home because an increase In temperature
causes an Increase in volatility.3114 Humidity affects pesticide emissions and product efficiency.3 For
example, boric acid powder Is an effective roach insecticide In dryer sections of the United States.
However, the powder cakes up under humid conditions and loses its efficiency; therefore, this product Is
not as popular in more humid areas.14 Lastly, the consumer greatly influences pesticide emissions in a
home. One person may spray an aerosol Insecticide for 3 seconds to kRI a fly, while another may spray
for 10 seconds. This variable Is difficult to test or control.
7.4 Data Tables
The following data tables summarize information Identified In the literature relating to the
pesticide product category. Only VOCs are presented In these data tables; components such as
nonvolatile inert ingredients, fillers, and inorganics that may be constituents of a product are not
included. Each VOC is Identified as a constituent or an emission. In many cases, compounds were
identified in the literature as constituents, but had not specifically been Identified through emissions
testing. In addition, a few compounds were identified as being emitted from a product, but not listed as
a constituent. In these cases, emissions may be the result of a chemical reaction within the product.
Emission rates are presented for those compounds that were Identified in the literature as being
emitted. These rates are presented as ranges where multiple emission rates were Identified.
Chemicals that are hazardous air pollutants (as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended In
November, 1990), carcinogens, or which have a threshold limit value established are designated by an
"H", "C", or T\ respectively, In the column following the chemical.
Full reference citations for ail information presented In the tables are Included at the end of the
section. The appendix at the end of this section presents additional information, where available,
concerning test conditions for literature cited.
The tables Include active and volatile inert pesticide product constituent data and emissions data
that were obtained from references, contacts, and label Inventories.
7-14
-------
ORGANIZATION OF DATA TABLES
INSECTICIDES
General Insecticides 7-16
Crawling Insecticides -- Aerosol 7-22
Crawling Insecticides - Nonaerosol 7-24
Flying Insecticides - Aerosol 7-25
Flying Insecticides - Noriaerosol 7-26
INSECT REPELLENTS 7-27
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES 7-28
7-15
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Pesticides
Chapter Insecticides Product NP
SIC 2879 SIC
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
| Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ret
Average
Mln
Max
Units
111 ,1,1 -T richloroethane
H.T
71-55-6
82
ug/m3*
41
|2,3,4,5-bis(2-Butylene)tetra-hydro-
1 2-furaldehyde
X
21
|2-Ethyl-1 -hexanol
104-76-7
X
1
|4,4'-DDD
72-54-8
X
19
J4,4'-DDE
H
X
0.55
0.2
0.9
ng/m3*
3,19
j4,4'-DDT
T
50-29-3
X \
0.67
0
1
ng/m3*
3,19,42
lAldrin
T
309-00-2
X
17.43
0
31.3
ng/m3*
3,19,42
[Alkylated Naphthalenes
X
1
IAIpha-BHC
X
1.07
0
2
ng/m3*
3.19,42
IjBendiocarb
X
42.95
0.2
85.7
ng/m3*
3,19 |
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NP - No product.
'This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Pesticides
Chapter Insecticides Product NP
SIC 2879 SIC
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
8
Emissions Data
I Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Min
Max
Units
Ret
Icarbaryl (SEVIN)
H.T
63-25-2
X
34.05
0
68.1
ng/m3*
3,19,21
IjChlordane
H.T
57-74-9
X
121.07
0
324
ng/m3*
3,19,42,48
IChlorothalonil
97
ng/m3*
42
nChlorpyrifos (DURSBAN)
T
2921-88-2
X
21600
0.2
15000
ng/m3*
3,15,16,19,
42,45,48
llCyclohexanone
T
108-94-1
X
1
[Dichlorvos (DDVP)
H,T
62-73-7
X
21
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant 89 defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NP - No product.
•This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Pesticides
Chapter
Insecticides
Product
NP
SIC
Usage/Sales
2879
ND
SIC
Usage/Sales
ND
k
Emissions Data
n Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Mln
Max
Units
Ref |
iDiazinon
T
333-41-5
X
102.91
0
420.7
ng/m3*
16,19,42,
47,48
UDichlorvos (DDVP)
H.T
62-73-7
X
76.25
1.5
148
ng/m3*
3,19,21
llDicofol
X
5.5
0
11
ng/m3*
3,19
llDieldrin
C.T
60-57-1
X
7.85
1
14.7
ng/m3*
3,19,42
iDimethyl Polysiloxane
X
1
||Di-1-p-menthene
X
1
|Allethrin
584-79-2
X
15,16
flEthylbenzene
H.T
100-41-4
NQ
41
C - This chemical is a known carcinogen.
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T • Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND • No data.
NP - No product.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
'This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Pesticides
Chapter Insecticides Product NP
SIC 2879 SIC
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
.. |
Average
Mln
Max
Units
Gamma-BHC (lindane)
T
50-89-9
X
9.57
0.5
20.2
ng/m3*
3,19,42
Glycol Ether
H
X
21
Heptachlor
H,T
76-44-8
X
58.19
0
163.4
ng/m3*
3,19,42,48
Heptachlor Epoxide
X
0.6
0
1
ng/m3*
3,19,42
Hexachlorobenzene
H
118-74-1
0.65
0
1.3
ng/m3*
3
Isopropyl Alcohol
T
67-63-0
X
1,14
jMalathion
T
121-75-5
X
10.4
0
20.8
ng/m3*
3,19,21
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data
NP - No product.
•This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Pesticides
Chapter Insecticides Product NP
SIC 2879 SIC
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Mln
Max
Units
Methoxychlor
H.T
72-43-5
0.15
0
0.3
nq/m3*
3
[Methanol
H.T
67-56-1
X
1
Mineral Oil
8020-83-5
X
21
n-Decane
124-18-5
NO
41
Chlordane
H,T
57-74-9
X
3.25
0
6.5
ng/m3*
3,19
o-Phenylphenol
90-43-7
44.67
14
80
ng/m3*
19,42
Pentachlorophenol
H.T
87-86-5
19
ng/m3*
42
Piperonyl Butoxide Technical
51-03-6
X
1
Propoxur (BAYGON)
H.T
114-26-1
X
264.3
0
528.5
ng/m3*
3,19,42,48 |
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NP - No product.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
*Thia value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Pesticides
Chapter Insecticides Product NP
SIC 2879 SIC
Usage/Sales ND Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average
Mln
Max
Units
jResmethrin
X
0.05
0
0.1
1
c
3,19
iRonnell
T
299-84-3
X
3.73
0
11
ng/m3*
3,19.42
Sumithrin
X
16
T etrachloroethy lene
H.T
127-18-4
NQ
41
Tetramethrin
X
16
Toluene
H,T
108-88-3
X
1
Permethrin
52645-53-1
0.55
0
1.1
ng/m3*
3
|T richloroethylene
H.T
79-01-6
NQ
41
[T ridecyloxpoly (ethy leneoxy) -ethanol
X
1
JXylene
H,T
1330-20-7
X
NQ
1,41 |
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T • Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
NP - No product.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
•This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Pesticides
Chapter Insecticides Product Crawling
SIC 2879 SIC 2879
Usage/Sales $1.557E+08 Usage/Sales ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
Ref
Average Mln Max Units
ISUBPRODUCT: Aerosol
1,1,1 -Trichloroethane
H,T
71-55-6
X
21
2-Hydroxyethyl-n-octyl Sulfide
X
16
Acephate
30560-19-1
46.97
0.01
194.13
ug/100 cm2*
43
[Aromatic Petroleum Hydrocarbons
X
16
jCyanomethyl 4-Chloroalpha-
] benzerveacetate
X
16
ICyfluthrin
X
15
Jpropoxur (BAYGON)
H.T
114-26-1
X
14
jHydramethylnon
X
23
(Hydrocarbon Propellent
X
21
[isobutane
75-28-5
X
21
jPyrethrins
8003-34-7
X
14
jPiperonyl Butoxide Technical
51-03-6
X
14
picarboximide (MGK-264)
X
14
In-Octyl Bicycloheptene
X
14
IfTetramethrin
X
14
HSumithrin
X
14
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
'This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Pesticides
Chapter
Insecticides
Product
Crawling
SIC
Usage/Sales
2879
ND
SIC
Usage/Sales
2879
ND
1
Emissions Data
1 Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Mln
Max
Units
Ref
(Naphtha
8030-30-6
X
21
|n-Butane
T
106-97-8
X
21
In-Octyl Bicycloheptene
I Dicarboximide
X
16
iPermethrin
52645-53-1
X
15
|Piperonyl Butoxide Technical
51-03-6
X
15,16
(Propane
74-98-6
X
18
llPyrethrins
8003-34-7
X
15,16
UResmethrin
X
16
ISumithrin
X
16
|Tetramethrin
X
15,16,21
iMethoprene
40596-69-8
X
15
jpropoxur (BAYGON)
H,T
114-26-1
X
14
(Total Volatile Organic Compounds
X
17
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Pesticides
Chapter
Insecticides
Product
Crawling
SIC
Usage/Sales
2879
$8.61 E+07
SIC
Usage/Sales
2879
ND
Emissions Data
f Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Mln
Max
Units
Ref |
|SUBPRODUCT: Non-Aerosol I
(Methoxychlor
H,T
72-43-5
X
1 1
flchlorpyrifos (DURSBAN)
T
2921-88-2
X
16
<|Hydramethylnon
X
23
Hn-Ethyl Perftuorooctane Sulfonamide
X
15
ln-Octyl Bicycloheptene
fl Dicarboximide
X
15,21
jpropoxur (BAYGON)
H,T
114-26-1
X
15
llMethoprene
40596-69-8
X
1
|Pyrethrins
8003-34-7
X
15,21
JPiperonyl But oxide Technical
51-03-6
X
15,21
UXylene
H.T
1330-20-7
X
16
||Amidino Hydrazone
X
15
jAcephate
30560-19-1
X
15
iCarbaryl (SEVIN)
H.T
63-25-2
X
15
jDiazinon
T
333-41-5
X
1
iHydroprene (GENCOR)
X
1
|Malathion
T
121-75-5
X
1 !
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Pesticides
Chapter
Insecticides
Product
Flying
SIC
2879
SIC
2879
Usage/Sales
ND
Usage/Sales
ND
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Emissions Data
¦
Ref
Average
Min
Max
Units
SUBPRODUCT: Aerosol
2-Phenyl Methylcarbamate
X
16
Chlorpyrifps (DURSBAN)
T
2921-88-2
X
15
d-trans Allethrin
X
15
fFluoromethane
T
593-53-3
X
18
|1,1,1 -T richloroethane
H.T
71-55-6
X
15
|lsobutane
75-28-5
X
21
jNalod
T
300-76-5
X
21
[Naphtha
8030-30-6
X
21
jn-Butane
T
106-97-8
X
14,21
o-lsopropoxyphenyl Methylcarbamate
T
114-26-1
X
15
Propane
74-98-6
X
14,18
Tetramethrin
X
15
Sumithrin
X
14
Piperonyl Butoxide Technical
51-03-6
X
14
Resmethrin
X
14
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Pesticides
Chapter
Insecticides
Product
Flying
SIC
Usage/Sales
2879
$4.11E+07
SIC
Usage/Sales
2879
ND
Emissions Data
Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Mln
Max
Units
Ret
SUBPRODUCT: Non-Aerosol |
jCamphor
T
76-22-2
X
20 1
Carbaryl (SEVIN)
H,T
63-25-2
X
16
Chlorpyrifos (DURSBAN)
T
2921-88-2
<0.25
ug/m3*
44
Diazinon
T
333-41-5
<1.4
ug/m3*
44
IDichlorvos (DDVP)
H.T
62-73-7
125
0.01
0.24
ug/l*
40
pichlorvos (DDVP)
H.T
62-73-7
35
10
60
ug/m3*
30
|Naphthalene
H.T
91-20-3
X
20,21
jParadichlorobenzene
H.T
106-46-7
X
15,20 |
[Propoxur (BAYGON)
H.T
114-26-1
<0.8
ug/m3*
44 |
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data.
'This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
-------
INDOOR AIR CATALOG - Pesticides
Chapter
Insect Repellents
Product
NP
SIC
Usage/Sales
28799
$5.75E+07 containers
SIC
Usage/Sales
ND
1
Emissions Data
j
| Chemical/Compound
Notes
CAS#
Constituent
Average
Mln
Max
Units
Ret
|2,3,4,5-bis(2-Butylene)tetra-hydro-
I 2-formatdehyde
X
21
|2,3,4,5-bis(2-Butylene)tetra-hydro-
I 2-furaJdehyde
X
1
|2-Ethyl-1,3-hexanediol
94-96-2
X
1,21
| Benzyl Benzoate
120-51-4
X
1
pibutyl Phthalate
H.T
84-72-2
X
jDimethyl Carbate
5826-73-3
X
1
flDimethyl Phthalate
T
131-11-3
X
1
|Di-n-butyl Succinate
X
1
flEthyl Hexanediol
94-96-2
X
In, n-Oiethyl-m-toluamide
134-62-3
X
15
Jn-Butylacetanilide
X
1
|n-Octyl Bicycloheptene
| Oicarboximide
X
21
[Total Volatile Organic Compounds
X
17 i
H - Hazardous Air Pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
T - Threshold Limit Value has been established for this chemical.
ND - No data
NP - No product.
-------
Pesticides
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES
/
19
30
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Immerman and Schaum, 1990
Test House
Polyurethane foam (PUF)
personal sampler pump
I -
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
%
i Temp
°C
'ach
'Testing Duration
j i ;
Comment: Tested for 30 target compounds
in 2 U.S. test locations over 3 seasons. Most comprehensive
study to date.
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Bond and Lewis, 1990
Test House
PUF personal sampler pump
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
%
Temp !
°C
ACH |
i
Testing Duration
Comment: Tested for detectable limits of
target pesticides in 2 locations. Sampled for 24 hours.
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Lee, 1976
Test House
Methods not given
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
%
Temp
°C
ACH
Testing Duration
1
hr
Comment: Tested emissions from pest control strips
(Vapona); concentrations measured after 1 hour and
after 56 days from installation.
7-28
-------
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES
(Continued)
40
41
42
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Elgar and Steer, 1972
Test House
Bubbler
Cholinesterase inhibition test
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
%
Temp
°C i
ACH
Testing Duration i
120
day
Comment: Sampled for dichlorvos from pest strips.
3000 air samples taken. 97.2% of results were <0.1 pg/l.
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Wallace et al., 1989
Headspace Study
Tenax cartridges
Value
Min
Max
Units 1
RH
%
Temp
°C 1
ACH
Testing Duration
Comment:
sampling period.
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Concentration data Three-day
Fortmann and Sheldon, 1991
Test House
PUF personal sampler pump
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
%
Temp
°C
ACH
|
1 Testing Duration
i !
Comment: 9-home study; 23 of 31 target
pesticides were detected in air, dust, and soil.
7-29
-------
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES
(Continued)
43
44
45
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Wright et al., 1989
Test House
PUF personal sampler pump
Value
Min
Max
Units 1
RH
%
Temp
°C
ACH
Testing Duration i
Comment: Acephate present after baseboard
spraying. Concentrations determined immediately
after spraying, and after 1 -week and 2-week intervals.
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Jackson and Lewis, 1981
Test House
High volume air sampler
GC
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
50
30
70
%
Temp
21
20
22
°C
ACH
Testina Duration
Comment: Tested concentration from pest control strips
over 30-day period; target pesticides were propoxur, diazinon,
and chlorpyrifos. Sampled for 2-hour periods.
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Anderson and Hites, 1988
Test House
PUF personal sampler pump
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
%
Temp
°C
ACH
Testing Duration
i >
Comment:
concentration.
Sampled 12 homes for chlorpyrifos
7-30
-------
APPENDIX TO DATA TABLES
(Continued)
47
Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Analysis Method:
Leidy eta!., 1984
Test House
PUF personal sampler pump
GC
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
%
Temp
°C
ACH
Testing Duration
Comment: Tested distribution of diazinon concentrations
throughout test house rooms over 35-day period.
48 Reference:
Test Method:
Sampling Method:
Lewis et al., 1986
Test House
PUF personal sampler pump
Value
Min
Max
Units
RH
%
Temp
°C
ACH
Testing Duration
Comment: Sampled 9 homes for various pesticides.
Sampled for 24 hours.
7-31
-------
REFERENCES
1. Sine, C., ed. Farm Chemical Handbook. Melster Publishing, 1987.
2. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Federal Register, Vol. 52, No. 77. 22 April 1987.
pp. 13305-13309.
3. Immerman, F.W., and J.L Schaum. Nonoccupational Pesticide Exposure Study (NOPES).
EPA-600/3-90/003 (NTIS PB90-152224). January 1990.
4. Hillmann, R. How to Choose and Use Household Insecticides. The North Carolina Agricultural
Extension Service. 1989.
5. Savage, E.P., T.J. Keefe, and H.W. Wheeler. National Household Pesticide Usage Study,
1976-1977. EPA-540/9-80-002 (NTIS PB81-181570). November 1979.
6. The Household Insecticide Market. Packaged Facts, Inc., New York, New York. July 1991.
7. Soap Cosmetics Chemical Specialties. November, 1989. p.82.
8. Chemical Marketing Reporter. 22 July 1991. p.5.
9. Bureau of the Census, Department of Commerce. Current Industrial Reports.
12 December 1987.
10. Telephone conversation. Candace Blackley, Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with Phil Ponebshek, Radian Corporation, Herndon, Virginia. 8 August 1991.
11. Telephone conversation. Candace Blacldey, Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with Debby Matthews, Radian Corporation, Herndon, Virginia. 13 August 1991.
12. Correspondence from Debby Matthews, Radian Corporation, Herndon, Virginia, to Candace
Blackley, Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. 27 August 1991.
13. Ferguson, T.L Pollution Control Technology for Pesticide Formulators and Packagers.
EPA-660/2-74-094 (NTIS PB2410G1). January 1975.
14. Telephone conversation. Candace Blackley, Radian Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North
Carolina, with James Case, S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. 10 September 1991.
15. Label inventory of pesticide products. Food Uon, Cary, North Carolina. 9 July 1991.
16. Ortho Product Label Guide. Chevron Chemical Company. 1989.
17. Kosusko, M., J. Bursey, R. Merrill, Jr., T. Heil, and F. DeMartin. Test Methods for the
Determination of Volatile Organic Compounds in Consumer Products. ]n: Proceedings of the
84th Annual Meeting of the Air and Waste Management Association. Vancouver, British
Columbia, June 16-21, 1991.
18. Kent, J.A. Riegal's Handbook of Industrial Chemistry, van Nostrand Relnhdd Company, Inc.,
New York. New York, 1983. pp. 747-786.
7-32
-------
REFERENCES (Continued)
19. Bond, A.E. and R.G. Lewis. A Study of Residential Exposure to Pesticides In Two Urban Areas
of the United States, in: Proceedings of the Fifth International Conference on Indoor Air Quality
and Climate, Toronto, Canada, July 1990.
20. Samfield, M. Indoor Air Quality Data Base for Organic Compounds. EPA 600-R-92-025
(NTIS PB92-158468). U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, February 1992.
21. Gosselin, R.E., R.P. Smith, and H.C. Hodge. Clinical Toxicology of Consumer Products. Fifth
Edition. Williams and Wilklns, Baltimore, Maryland. 1984.
22. Soap Cosmetics Chemical Specialties. November 1987. p.28-29, 103.
23. Soap Cosmetics Chemical Specialties. July 1986. p. 62.
24. Women Urged to Avoid Certain Bug Repellant. Raleigh, (NC) News and Observer.
27 August 1991.
25. Lawn and Garden Marketing. July 1989. p. 55.
26. Cravens, R. Pests and Diseases. Tlme-Ufe Books. 1977.
27. Correspondence from James Case, S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc., to Candace Blackley, Radian
Corporation, Research Triangle Park, North Carolina. 4 September 1991 and 10 September
1991.
28. Archer, S.R., W.R. McCurley, and G.D. Rawlings. Source Assessment: Pesticide Manufacturing
Air Emissions - Overview and Prioritization. EPA-600/2-78-004d (NTIS PB279171). March 1978.
29. Levin, H. and J. Hahn. Pentachlorophenol in Indoor Air: Methods to Reduce Airborne
Concentrations. Environ. Int., 12:333-341, 1986.
30. Lee, R.E. Air Pollution from Pesticides and Agricultural Processes. CRC Press, 1976.
31. Williams, D.T. et ai. Diazinon Levels in Indoor Air After Periodic Application for Insect Control.
Am. Ind. Hyg. Assoc. J., (48), September 1987.
32. Sanders, P.F., M.M. McChesney, and J.N. Seiber. Measuring Pesticide Volatilization from Small
Surface Areas In the Field. Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol., (35)569-575. 1985.
33. Corsi, R.L and P.D. Allen. Post-Application Pesticide Volatilization and Transport,
jn: Proceedings of the 79th Annual Meeting of the Air Pollution Control Association.
June 22-27, 1986.
34. Starr, H.G. et al. Contribution of Household Dust to the Human Exposure to Pesticides. Pestle.
Monlt J., 8(3). December 1974.
35. Davies, J.E., W.F. Edmund son, and A. Raffonelll. The Role of House Dust In Human DDT
Pollution. Am. J. Public Health, (65)1. January 1975.
36. Collins, R.D. and D.M. DeVrles. Air Concentrations and Food Residues from Use of Shell's
No-Pest* Insecticide Strip. Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol., 9(4). 1973.
7-33
-------
REFERENCES (Continued)
37. Emission Inventory/Factor Workshop. Volume 1. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office
of Air Quality Planning and Standards. EPA-450/3-78-042a. (NTIS PB289122). May 1978.
38. Cavagrta, G. et al. Clinical Effects of Exposure to DDVP (Vapona) Insecticide In Hospital Wards.
Arch. Environ. Health, (19). July 1969.
39. Molhave, L Indoor Air Pollution Due to Organic Gases and Vapours of Solvents in Building
Materials. Environ. Int., 8:117-127. 1982.
40. Elgar, K.E. and B.D. Steer. Dichlorvos Concentrations in the Air of Houses Arising from the Use
of Dichlorvos PVC Strips. Pestle. Scl., 3:591-600. 1972.
41. Wallace, LA. et al. Emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds by Building Materials and
Consumer Products. Atmosph. Env., 21:385-393. 1989.
42. Fortmann, R.C. and LS. Sheldon. Field Measurement Methods to Assess Exposure of Children
to Pesticides In the Home, jri: Proceedings erf the 1991 Environmental Protection Agency
AWMA International Symposium on Measurement of Toxic and Related Air Pollutants.
EPA-600/9-91-018. May 1991.
43. Wright, C.G., R.B. Leldy, and H.E. Dupree, Jr. Acephate Present in Food-Serving Areas of
Buildings after Baseboard Spraying. Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol., 43:713-716. 1989.
44. Jackson, M. and R. Lewis, insecticide Concentrations in Air after Application of Pest Control
Strips. Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol., No. 27. 1981.
45. Anderson, D. and R. Hltes. Chlorinated Pesticides In Indoor Air. Environ. Scl. Technol., (22)6.
1988.
46. Wright, C. and M. Jackson. Insecticide Residues in Non-Target Areas of Rooms After Two
Methods of Crack & Crevice Application. Bull. Environ. Contam. Toxicol., No. 13-1. 1975.
47. Leidy, R. et al. Concentration and Movement of Dlazlnon In Air. II. Vertical Distribution in
Rooms. J. Environ. Scl. Health, B19(8&9). 1984.
48. Lewis, R. et al. Monitoring for Non-Occupational Exposure to Pesticides In Indoor and Personal
Respiratory Air. jn: Proceedings of the 79th Annual Meeting of the Air Pollution Control
Association. Minneapolis, Minnesota. June 22-27,1986.
49. Tlchenor, B.A. Indoor Air Sources: Using Small Environmental Test Chambers to Characterize
Organic Emissions from Indoor Materials and Products. EPA-600/8-89-074.
(NTIS PB90-110131). August 1989.
7-34
-------
ADDITIONAL CONTACTS
Telephone conversation. Candace Blackley, Radian Corporation, with Armln Clobes, Johnson & Son,
Inc. 5 July 1991.
Telephone conversation. Candace Blackley, Radian Corporation, with Wayne Baden, Wake County
Agricultural Extension. 8 July 1991.
Telephone conversation. Candace Blackley, Radian Corporation, with Dr. Roger Grothaus, Johnson &
Son, Inc. 8 July 1991.
Telephone conversation. Candace Blackley, Radian Corporation, with Dr. Rudy Hillmann, NCSU
Agricultural Extension. 8 July 1991.
Telephone conversation. Candace Blackley. Radian Corporation, with Dr. Robert Moseman, Radian
Corp. 9 July 1991.
Telephone conversation. Candace Blackley, Radian Corporation, with Dr. Roy Fortmann, Research
Triangle Institute. 24 July 1991.
Telephone conversation. Candace Blackley, Radian Corporation, with Dr. Charles Wright, North Carolina
State University. 25 July 1991.
Telephone conversation. Candace Blackley, Radian Corporation, with John DiFazio, Chemical
Specialties Manufacturers Association. 30 July 1991.
Telephone conversation. Candace Blackley, Radian Corporation, with Gordon Cash, EPA Office of
Pesticides and Toxic Substances. 7 August 1991.
7-35
-------
APPENDIX A
Summary of Emission Rates by Compound and Material
A-1
-------
Comparisons of Emission Rates bv Compound and Materia)
The following tables present information on emissions by chemical for materials included
in the Catalog. Only those VOCs for which emissions data were found in the literature are included.
The data are sorted by compound, and for each compound, a list of materials that were found to emit
that particular compound is presented. The materials are grouped by their product categories (e.g.,
carpet, wall coverings, insulation). In some studies chemicals were detected as being emitted but not
quantified. This type of emissions data is Included in the tables as "NQ".
Because the tables are meant to provide a summary of emission rates from different
materials, only those compounds that were identified as being emitted from more than one product are
included. However, it should not be assumed that because a material does not appear under a specific
compound that it does not emit that compound.
Pesticide products are not included in this appendix for two reasons. First, the
compounds emitted from pesticides are typically different from those emitted from the other materials
presented in the Catalog. Secondly, emissions of pesticides are typically expressed in different units
than emissions from other products (e.g., gram of chemical per volume of product dispensed) making
comparison of pesticide emission rates with other building materials difficult. Comparison of emissions
from pesticides with other consumer products would be a more pertinent exercise, however at this time
no other consumer products are included in this report.
Footnotes are included indicating compounds which are carcinogens, compounds which
are classified as hazardous air pollutants, and compounds for which Threshold Limit Values have been
established.
A-2
-------
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Chemical Page
Acetone A-5
Aliphatic Hydrocarbons A-5
Alkyibenzene A-6
Aromatic Hydrocarbons A-6
Benzaldehyde A-7
Benzene A-7
Butanol A-8
1-Butanol A-8
2-Butanon e A-8
2-Butoxyethanol A-9
Butenes A-9
Butyl Acetate A-9
C10 Cyciohexane A-10
Decane A-10
n-Decane A-10
p-Dichlorobenzene A-11
Ethano! A-11
Ethyl Acetate A-11
Ethyl Benzene A-12
m-Ethyltoluene A-12
Formaldehyde A-13
Halogenated Hydrocarbons A-13
Hexane A-14
Isopropylbenzene A-14
Methanol A-14
Methylbenzene A-15
Methylene Chloride A-15
Methyl Ethyl Ketone (MEK) A-15
2-Methylnaphthalene A-16
2-Methyl-2-Propanol A-16
Naphthalene A-16
Nitromethane A-17
Nonane A-17
Octane A-18
A-3
-------
TABLE OF CONTENTS (Continued)
Chemical Page
Phenol A-18
4-Phenylcyclohexene (4-PCH) A-19
2-Propanol A-19
2-Propanone A-19
Styrene A-20
Tetrachloroethane A-20
Toluene A-21
1,1,1-Trichloroethane A-22
Trichloroethene A-22
Trichloroethylene A-23
1.2.3-Trimethylbenzen e A-23
1.2.4-Trimethylbenzen e A-23
n-Undecane A-24
Xylene A-25
o-Xylene A-25
A-4
-------
APPENDIX A
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Average
Emission
Rale
Units
Acetone*
7
't
CO
1
r*.
CO
INSULATION
Fibrous-Mineral Fibers
Fiberglass-Batts. Blankets, Rolls
NQ
FLOOR COVERINGS
Resilient Floor Coverings
Sheet Vinyl Flooring
NQ
I
i
i
'1
*A threshold limit value has been established for this chemical.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
i
i
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Average
Emission
Rate
1
Units
: Aliphatic Hydrocarbons
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Carpet
Carpet
Carpet
Carpet
Face Fiber, Acrylic
Face Fiber. Nylon
Face Fiber, Polypropylene
Face Fiber, Unspecified
Face Fiber, Unspecified
NQ
NQ
NQ
NQ
NQ
i
FLOOR COVERINGS
Resilient Floor Coverings
Resilient Floor Coverings
Resilient Floor Coverings
Other Resilient Floor Coverings
Sheet Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl Tile
• 2 S|
fig/m2-hr
ADHESIVES
Emulsions
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
No Product
No Product
NQ
NQ
I
L
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
Solid Polymer/Soiid Rubber
Natural Oil Base
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
Butyl Rubber
Styrene Butadiene Rubber
Oleoresinous
No Product
3,41
3,35
0.39
NQ
mg/g sealant*
mg/g sealant*
•This value is the concentration of the compound in the ar tested.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
A-S
-------
APPENDIX A (Continued)
¦
,
Chemical CAS
Chapter
Product
Average |
Emission
Rate | Units
Alkylbenzene
FLOOR coverings
Carpet
Carpet
Face Fiber, Nylon
Face Fiber, Polypropylene
NQ
I
NQ
FLOOR COVERINGS
Resilient Floor Coverings
Vinyl Tile
NQ |
NQ - Delected but not quantified.
i
i
i
Average
Emission
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Rate
Units
Aromatic Hydrocarbons
INSULATION
•
,
Fibrous-Mineral fibers
Fiberglass -Batts, Blankets. Rolls
0.15
;jg/m2-hr
1
; Fibrous-Mineral Fibers
Fiberglass-Batts, Blankets, Rolls
008
fjg/m2-hr
aom£9¥seiN££
Resilient Floor Coverings
Other Resilient Floor Coverings
35
pg/m2-hr
i
ADHESIVES
I
1
Emulsions
No Product
NQ
'
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
No Product
NQ
SpALANTS/CALjI.KS
Emulsions
No Product
380
pg/m3-hr
Liquid Polymer
Polyurethane
130
/jg/m3-hr
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
A-6
-------
APPENDIX A (Continued)
Chemical j CAS
Chapter
Product
Average
Emission
Rate
i
Units
I Benzaldehyde
100- 52 -7
INSULATION
Fibrous-Mineral Fibers
Fibrous-Mineral Fibers
Fiberglass
Mineral Wool
NQ
NQ
!
FLOOR COVERINGS
Resilient Floor Coverings
Resilient Floor Coverings
Sheet Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl Tile
I
i
NQ I
NQ I
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
Chemical
| | Average
| j • Emission
CAS Chapter Product j Rate
Units
Benzene*
71-43-2
Carpet : Face Fiber, Polypropylene | 0.92
Carpet ' Face Fiber. Unspecified | NQ
>jg/m2-hr
I1
INSULATION
Fibrous-Mineral Fibers | Fiberglass-Batts, Blankets, Rolls
NQ
ADHESIVES
Liquid Polymer
Epoxy Resin
NQ
1
SEALANTS/CAULKS
Emulsions
No Product
i
l
NQ
*
Benzene is a carcinogen; and it is a hazardous air pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990. A threshold
limit value has been established for this chemical.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
A—7
-------
APPENDIX A (Continued)
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Average
Emission
Rate
1
Units |
j Butanol*
71-36-3
ElOOR COVERINGS
Resilient Floor Coverings
Vinyl Tile
NQ
I
SEALANTS/CAULKS
Emulsions
Liquid Polymer
No Product
Silicone
NQ
NQ
i
•
A threshold limit value has been established for this chemical
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
r
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Average
Emission
Rate
i
1
Units
i-Butanol *
•78-92-2
INSULATION
Fibrous-Mineral Fibers
Fibrous-Mineral Fibers
Fiberglass
Mineral Wool
NQ
NQ
]
¦ i
s|
h
\
FLOOR COVERINGS
Resilient Floor Coverings
Other Resilient Floor Coverings
NQ
i
i-Butanol is a hazardous air pollutant as
established for this chemical.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November. 1990 A threshold limit value has been
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Average
Emission
Rate
Units
2-Butanone*
78-93-3
FLOOR COVERINGS
Resilient Floor Coverings
Vinyl Tile
NQ
t ...
ADHESIVES
Liquid Polymer
Liquid Polymer
Solid Polymer/Sclid Rubber
Epoxy Resin
Silicone
Neoprene Rubber
o o o
}
!
)
1
i
2-Butanone is a hazardous air pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, Novembei, 1990. A threshold limit value has been
established for this chemical.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
A-8
-------
APPENDIX A (Continued)
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
| Average
Emission
Rate
Units
2-Butoxyethanol*
111-76-2
INSULATION
Fibrous-Mineral Fibers
i Fiberglass-Batte, Blankets, Rolls
1
| NQ
SEALANTS/CAULKS
Liquid Polymer
Silicone
NQ
*A threshold limit vaJue has been established for this ehemicaJ.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
i Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Average
Emission
Rate
Units
Butenes
25167-67-3
ADHESIVES
Liquid Polymer
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
Epoxy Resin
Neoprene Rubbef
O O
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Average
Emission
Rate
Units
Butyl Acetate
123-86-4
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Face Fiber, Unspecified
NQ
FLOOP COVERINGS
Resilient Floor Coverings
Resilient Floor Coverings
Other Resilient Floor Coverings
Sheet Vinyl Flooring
NQ
NO
!
A threshold limit value has been established tor this chemical
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
A-9
-------
APPENDIX A (Continued)
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
| Average
| Emission
Product Rate
Units
C10 Cyclohexane*
110-87-7
ADHESIVES
Emulsions
Other Natural Based
Adhesives
Natural Rubber NQ
Asphaltic NQ
A threshold limit value has been established for this chemical.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
Average
Emission
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Rale
Units
Decane
- I
K i
I
00
I
01
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Face Fiber, Unspecified
NQ
Carpet
Face Fiber, Nylon
NQ {
ADHESIVES
Emulsions
No Product
NQ
NQ - Detected but not quantised.
|
Average
Emission
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Rate
Units
n-Decane
124-18-5
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Face Fiber, Unspecified
46.00
fjgim3 '
Carpet
Face Fiber. Polypropylene
5.62
(jg/m^-hr
1
WALLCOVERINGS
Wallpaper (glued to
No Product
11.4
pg/m2-hr
sheetrock)
!
Emulsions
Natural Rubber
NQ
Other Natural Based
Asphaltic
NQ
Adhesives
*This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
A-10
-------
APPENDIX A (Continued)
Average
Emission
I
t
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Rate
Units I
p-Dichlorobenzene
106-46-7
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Face Fiber, Unspecified
3.50
M/m3 * I
Carpet
Face Fiber, Polypropylene
0.18
pg/m2-hr I
Carpet
Face Fiber, Unspecified
NQ
:
INSULATION
l
Foam-Rigid
Polystyrene
0.59
pg/m2-hr
Fibrous-Mineral Fibers
Fiberglass-Batts, Blankets, Rolls
NQ
»
This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
NO - Detected but not quantified.
!
Average [
Emission
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Rate
Units
Ethanol*
64-17-5
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Face Fiber, Unspecified
NQ
i
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
Neoprene Rubber
NQ
*A threshold limit value has been established for this chemical.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
Chemical CAS
Chapter
Product
Average
Emission
Rate
Units i
Ethyl Acetate* 141 - 78 - 6
1
i
i
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Face Fiber, Unspecified
NQ !
FLOOR COVERINGS
Resilient Floor Coverings
Other Resilient Floor Coverings
NQ
!
i
A threshold limit value has been established for this chemical.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
A—11
-------
APPENDIX A (Continued)
'i Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Average
Emission
Rate
I
Units
'[ Ethylbenzene*
1
100-41-4
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Carpet
Carpet
Face Fiber, Unspecified
Face Fiber, Polypropylene
Face Fiber, Unspecified
6.40
0.05
NQ
•a ••
fig/m
jjg/m2-hr
Foam - Rigid
Polystyrene
12.5
I
£
I
t\J
E
a
FLOOR COVERINGS
Resiien? Floor Coverings
Sheet Vinyl Flooring
65
Ud/m2-hr
Ethylbenzene is a hazardous air pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990. A threshold limit value has been
established for this chemical.
This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
NQ - Detected but not quantified,
j Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Average
Emission
Rate
Units
m-Ethyltoluene
!
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Face Fiber, Polypropylene
2.1
pg/m2-hr
j
INSULATION
Foam-Rig,d
Fibrous - Mineral Fibers
Polystyrene
Fiberglass-Batts, Blankets, Rolls
0.59
0.03
*ig/m2-hr |
fj g/m2-hr i
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
A-12
-------
APPENDIX A (Continued)
Average
Emission
Chemical
I CAS
Chapter
Product
Rate
Units
Formaldehyde*
50-00-0
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Face Fiber, Nylon
90.25
*ig/m2-hr
Carpet
Face Fiber, Unspecified
1.03
pg/m2-hr |
Carpet
Face Fiber, Nylon
NQ
I
I
Carpet
Face Fiber, Unspecified
NQ
I
i
j I
li
INSULATION
i
l|
I
Fibrous-Mineral Fibers
Fiberglass-Batts, Blankets, Rolls
47.5
yg/m2-hr
|
Fibrous-Mineral Fibers
Fiberglass-Batts, Blankets, Rolls
30.0
yg/m2-hr
Fibrous-Mineral Fibers
Fiberglass-Batts, Blankets, Rolls
29.0
jjg/rn2-hr
Mineral Fibers
Fiberglass- Rigid
19.4
^g,'m2-hr
Fibrous-Mineral Fibers
Fiberglass
14.0
pg/m2~hr
Mineral Fibers
Fiberglass-Rigid
NQ
Fibrous-Mineral Fibers
Fiberglass-Batts, Blankets, Rolls
NQ
Wallpaper
Vinyl Coated
15
//g/m2-hr
I
I
FLOOR COVERINGS
I
Resilient Floor Coverings
Sheet Vinyl Flooring
30
jjg/'m2-hr
Resilient Floor Coverings
No Product
<240
1 •*
fjgim"
_
Resilient Floor Coverings
Other Resilient Floof Coverings
NQ
II
Formaldehyde is a carcinogen; and it is a hazardous air pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990. A threshold
limit value has been established for this chemical.
This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
NQ - Detected but not quantified
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Average |
Emission
Rate ; Units
: Halogenated
Hydrocarbons
FLOOR COVERINGS
Resilient Floor Coverings
Other Resilient Poor Coverings
4
pg/m2-hr
1
ADHESIVES
Emulsions
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
No Product
No Product
NQ
NQ
SEALANTS,'CA'JLfCS
Emuisions
No Product
5.2
pq/m2-hr
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
A-13
-------
APPENDIX A (Continued)
I I
Chemical CAS Chapter
Product
Average
Emission
Rate
|
Units
Hexane*
110-54-3 i INSULATION
Fibrous-Mineral Fibers
Fiberglass-Batts. Blankets, Rolls
NQ
i
SEALANTS/CAULKS
i Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
Styrene Butadiene Rubber
I
j
• ~ I
5.24 mg/g sealant |
*Hexane is a hazardous air pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Acl as amended, November, 1990. A threshold limit value has been
established for this chemical.
This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
Chemical
CAS
Average
| I Emission
Chapter Product Rate
Units
isopropylbenzene
98-82-8
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Face Fiber, Polypropylene
0.17
p
jjg/m'-hr
INSULATION
Foam-Riqid
Polys tyrene
1.55 pg/m^-hr
*
A threshold limit value has been established for this chemical.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
i
Average
Emission
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Rata
Units
Methanol*
67-56-1
ADHESIVES
Liquid Poiymer
' Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
Epoxy Resin
Neoprene Rubber
NQ
NQ
'Methanol is a hazardous air pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November. 1990. A threshold limit value has been
established for this chemical.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
A- 14
-------
APPENDIX A (Continued)
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Average
Emission
Rale
Units
• Methylbenzene*
108 - 88-3
AOHESIVES
i
Liquid Polymer
Epoxy Resin
NQ
Liquid Polymer
Silicone
NQ
A threshold limit value has been established tor this chemical.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
|
Average
1
Emission
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Rate
Units
Methylene Chloride*
75-09-2
FLOOR COVERINGS
!
Carpet
Face Fiber, Unspecified
NQ
i
i
INSULATION
|
Fibrous-Mineral Fibers
Fiberglass-Batts. Blankets, Rolls
NQ
Methylene chloride is a carcinogen; and it is a hazardous air pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990.
A threshold limit value has been established for this chemical.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
Chemical CAS
Chapter
Product
Average
Emission
Rate Units
Methyl Ethyl Ketone
(MEK)*
L .. ..
76-93-3
FLOOR COVERINGS
Resilient Floor Coverings
Sheet Vinyl Flooring
NQ :
SEALANTS/CAULKS
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
Liquid Polymer
Nitrile Rubber
Neoprene Rubber
Silicone
8.230
2.026
NQ
• *
mg/g sealant \
!
mg/g sealant
*
Methyl ethyl ketone is a hazardous air pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990. A threshold limit value has
been established for this chemical.
• •
This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
A—15
-------
APPENDIX A (Continued)
Chemical
CAS
'
Chapter
Product
Average
Emission
Rats
Units
2 - Methylnaphthalene
91-57-6
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Carpet
Face Fiber, Acrylic
Face Fiber, Nylon
NO
NQ
Fibrous-Mineral Fibers
Fiberglass-Batts, Blankets, Rolls
NQ
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Producl
Average
Emission
Rate
Units
2-Methyl-2-
«
propanol
75-65-0
AOHESIVES
Liquid Polymer
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
Silicone
Neoprene Rubber
1
nq|
NQ!
A threshold limit value has been established for this chemical.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Average
Emission
Rate
Units
; Naphthalene*
i
|
i
i
91-20-3
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Carpet
Face Fiber. Acrylic
Face Fiber. Nylon
jS s
'Naphthalene is a hazardous air pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990 A threshold limit value Has been
established for this chemical.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
A-16
-------
APPENDIX A (Continued)
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
I
Product
Average :
Emission
Rate Units
Nitromethane* i 75-52-5
ADHESIVES
Liquid Polymer
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
Epoxy Resin
Neoprene Rubber
NQ
NQ
A threshold limit value has been established for this chemical.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
! :
Chemical CAS
Chapter
Product
Average
Emission
Rate
Units
Nonane*
|
111-84-2
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Carpet
Face Fiber, Unspecified
Face Fiber, Unspecified
I
NQ
NQ ;
FLOOR COVERINGS
Resilient Root Coverings
Vinyl Tile
| i
NQ I I
ADHES|VES
Emulsions
Emulsions
Emulsions
No Product
Natural Rubber
No Product
380
NQ
NQ
i
I
mg/g-hr
SEALANTS/CAULKS
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
So:id Polymer/Solid Rubber
No Product NQ
Butyl Rubber ( NQ
'i
j
*
A threshold limit value has been established for this chemical.
NO - Detected but not quantified.
A-17
-------
APPENDIX A (Continued)
ij
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Average
Emission
Rate
Units
Octane"
0>
i
to
lO
1
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Carpet
1
Face Fiber, Unspecified j NQ
Face Fiber, Unspecified NQ
FLOOR COVERINGS
Resilient Floor Coverings
Resilient Floor Coverings
Vinyl Tile 1 NQ
Vinyl Tile | NQ
ADH6SIV5S
Emulsions
1
No Product 380
^g/g-hr
'
1
SEALANTS/CAULKS
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
No Product
Butyl Rubber
NQ
NQ
*A threshold limit value has been established for this chemical.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
i
Chemical j CAS
Chapter | Product
Average
Emission
Rate
Units
Phenol* | 108-95-2
1
1
l
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Carpet
Face Fiber, Acrylic | NQ
Face Fiber, Unspecified NQ
!
FLOOR COVERINGS 1
Resilient Floor Coverings : Vinyl Tile NQ
* Phenol is a hazardous air pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990. A threshold limit value has been
established for this chemical.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
A-
18
-------
APPENDIX A (Continued)
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Average
Emission
Rate
Units
4- Phenylcyciohexene
(4-PCH) |
i
FLOOR COVERINGS I
i I
Carpet i Face Fiber, Nylon I 193
i I
Carpet i Face Fiber, Unspecified NQ
jjg/m2-hr
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Average
Emission I
Rate Units
2-Propanol*
67-63-0
AD.HESIVES
Liquid Polymer
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
Silicone
Neoprene Rubber
z z
o o
A threshold limit value has been established for this chemical.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
Average
Emission
I
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Rate
Units
2-Propanone*
67-64-1
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Face Fiber, Unspecified
NQ
ADHESIVES
Liquid Polymer
Epoxy Resin
NQ
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
Neoprene Rubber
NQ
SEAUNTS/CAULKS
Tapes and Foams
Polyurethane Foam
NQ
A threshold limit value has been established for this chemical.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
A-19
-------
APPENDIX A (Continued)
Average
Emission
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Rata
Units
Styrene*
100-42-5
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Face Fiber, Unspecified
3.4
pg/rrr
Carpet
Face Fiber, Polypropylene
0.1
yg/m2-hr
Carpet
Face Fiber. Nylon
NQ
Carpet
Face Fiber, Unspecified
NQ
INSULATION)
Foam-Rigid
Polystyrene
5.55
P0/m2-hr
ADHESIVES
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
No Product
NQ
Styrene is a hazardous air pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990. A threshold limit value has been
established for this chemical.
• t
ihis value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Average
Emission
Rate
Units
I Tetrachloroethane*
I
79- 34 -5
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Face Fiber, Unspecified
NQ
Fibrous-Mineral Fibers
Fiberglass-Batts. Blankets, Rolls
NQ
Tetrachloroethane is a hazardous air pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990. A threshold limit value has
been established for this chemical.
NQ - Detected but not quantified
A-20
-------
APPENDIX A (Continued)
|
i
Average
Emission
ChemicaJ
CAS
Chapter
Product
Rate
Units
Toluene*
108-83-3
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Carpet
Face Fiber, Unspecified
Face Fiber, Unspecified
NO
NO
i
INSULATION
Fibrous-Mineral Fibers
Fiberglass-Batts, Blankets, Rolls
NQ
WALLCOVERINGS
Wallpaper
Vinyl Coated
21.67
^g/m2-hr
FLOOR COVERINGS
Resilient Floor Coverings
Sheet Vinyl Flooring
65
iL/g/m2-hr
Resilient Floor Coverings
Other Resilient Floor Coverings
NQ
Resilient Floor Coverings
Sheet Vinyl Flooring
NQ
!
Resilient Floor Coverings
Vinyl Tile
NQ I
Resilient Floor Coverings
Vinyl Tile
NQ
Resi.ient Floor Coverings
Vinyl Tile
NQ
AD.U65 vg§
j Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
No Product
36.86
/jg/g-hr
Emulsions
Natural Rubber
NQ
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
Styrene Butadiene Rubber
1.53
mg/g sealant"
Liquid Polymer
Polysulfide
0.24
mg/g sealant**
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
Neoprene Rubber
0.10
mg/g sealant"
Liquid Polymer
Silicone
NQ
»
Toluene is a hazardous air pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990. A threshold limit value has been
established (or this chemical.
*This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
NQ - Detected but riot quantified.
A-21
-------
APPENDIX A (Continued)
Average
Emission
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Rate
Units
1,1,1 - Trichloroethane*
71-55-6
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Face Fiber, Unspecified
22
, 3 **
Carpet
Face Fiber, Unspecified
NQ
WALLCOVERINGS
I
Wallpaper (glued to sheetrock)
No Product
5
j
-------
APPENDIX A (Continued)
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Average
Emission
Rate
Units
Trichloroethylene*
79-01-6
FLOOR COVERINGS
Resilient Floor Coverings
Resilient Floor Coverings
Sheet Vinyl Flooring
Vinyl THe
NQ
NQ
SEALANTS/CAULKS | .
: Emulsions j No Product : 0.3 /ig/m^-hr
Trichloroethylene is a hazardous air pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990. A threshold limit value has
been established for this chemical.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
"
i
Average
Emission
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Rate
Units
1,2,3-Trimethylbenzene
95-63 -6
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Face Fiber, Polypropylene
0.079
jjg/m2-hr
INSULATION
Foam-Rigid
Polystyrene
0.08
pg/m2-hr
Fibrous-Mineral Fibers
Fiberglass-Batts, Blankets, Rolls
0.04
pg/m2-hr
Fibrous-Mineral Fibers
Fiberglass-Batts, Blankets, Rolls
0.03
pq/m2-hr 1
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
Average
Emission
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Rate
Units
1,2,4-Trimethylbenzene
95-63-6
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Face Fiber, Polypropylene
0.632
/jg/m2-hr
Carpet
Face Fiber, Nylon
NQ
INSULATION
Foam-Rigid
Polystyrene
0.31
pg/m2-hr
Fibrous-Mineral Fibers
Fiberglass-Batts, Blankets, Rolls
0.08
yg/m2-hr
Fibrous-Mineral Fibers
Fiberglass-Batts, Blankets, Rolls
0.03
yg/m2-hr
Resilient Floor Coverings
Other Resilient Floor Coverings
NQ
NQ - Detected but riot quantified.
-------
APPENDIX A (Continued)
Chemical
n-Undecane
CAS
1120-21-4
Chapter
Carpet
Carpet
Foam - Rigid
Fibrous-Mineral Fibers
Wallpaper (glued to
sheetrock)
Product
Face Fiber, Unspecified
Face Fiber, Polypropylene
No Product
Average
Emission
Rate
Units
42;pg/mJ
9.55 ' ^g/m^-hr
Polystyrene 0,19
Fiberglass-Batts, Blankets, Rolls ! 0.13
Aig/m^-hr
pg/m2-hr
18
Mg/m2-hr
ADHESjVES
Emulsions
Other Natural Based
Adhesives
Natural Rubber
AsphaJtic
NQ
NQ 1
This value is the concentration ol the compound in the air tested.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
A—24
-------
APPENDIX A (Continued)
•
Average
l'
Emission
Chemical
CAS
Chapter
Product
Rate
Units
Xylene*
1330 - 20-7
FLOOR COVERINGS
Carpet
Face Fiber, Unspecified
NQ
Carpet
Face Fiber, Unspecified
NQ
floorcoverings
,
Resilient Poor Coverings
Vinyl Tile
NQ
ii
:!
ADHESIVES
|
Liquid Polymer
Epoxy Resin
NQ
SEALANTS/CAULKS
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
Neoprene Rubber
5.380
mg/g sealant
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
Styrene Butadiene Rubber
2.410
mg/g sealant
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
Acrylic
1.180
mg/g sealant !
Solid Polymer/Solid Rubber
Chlorosulfonated Polyethylene
1.036
mg/g sealant
Liquid Polymer
Polyurethane
0.452
mg/g sealant
Liquid Polymer
Silicone
0.077
mg/g sealant *
i
Tapes and Foams
Polyurethane Foam
NQ
Xylene is a hazardous air pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990. A threshold limit value has been
established for this chemical.
**This value is the concentration of the compound in the air tested.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
Chemical
i
CAS I Chapter
Product
Average |
Emission |
Rate | Units
o-Xylene*
95-47-6
FLOOR COVERINGS I
Carpet i Face Fiber, Polypropylene
0.6 , pg/m^-hr
INSULATION
Foam-Rigid -Polystyrene
0.36
fig/m2-hr
WALLCOVERINGS
Wallpaper (glued to
sheetrock)
No Product I 0.4
jig/m2-hr
o-Xylene is a hazardous air pollutant as defined in the Clean Air Act as amended, November, 1990. A threshold limit value has been
established for this chemical.
NQ - Detected but not quantified.
A-25
------- |