Air Quality: Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

Organic Compounds - molecules of these compounds contain carbon atoms. Carbon atoms bond well with each other to form molecular chains; they also bond with other atoms, mainly hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen and sulphur to form a great variety of compounds. Some of the compounds have low boiling points causing them to evaporate readily; these are called Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)

VOCs and Health

Some VOCs are directly injurious to health. In addition, they react with other chemicals in the air to produce ozone and other pollutants, (Smog).

VOC Examples

Are found in and are produced from crude oil.

• Benzene - a primary building block; used to make many chemical compounds
• Ethylene - the basis for many chemical compounds including polyethylene
• Toluene - a solvent for paints; a component of gasoline; used to make explosives

In 2008, all compounds were below any associated Ontario ambient air quality criteria.