VOCs (Volatile organic compounds)
You may be aware that these and other chemical compounds can cause chest complaints, aggravate allergies, contribute to the greenhouse effect and pollute the environment.
The two most toxic of these are formaldehyde and benzene.
Formaldehyde
A noxious gas released from many furnishing materials; glues in chipboard and MDF.
Homes built after 1980 contain 3x the former level of formaldehyde. High levels of gas are released when the material is newly installed and continues to emit gases for up to a decade later.
Formaldehyde exposure can cause burning eyes and/or nose, coughing, difficulty breathing, and is shown to be carcinogenic - causing nasal and nasopharyngeal cancer, and possibly leukemia as well.
There are a number of formaldehyde-free resins on the market that can be used as alternatives. Many of these bio-resins are produced using vegetable oils such as Rapeseed (Canola) Soybean, Sunflower, and Cashew Nut Shell Liquid (CNSL) as a base – all naturally water resistant.
Benzene
A sweet smelling liquid, was once used as an ingredient in after-shaves. Once the levels of toxicity were recognised this came to an end as did its uses in fuel. Now officially acknowledged to be a carcinogen, benzene is still used, in small quantities, in the manufacturing process of detergents, pesticides, drugs and explosives. Styrene is the most widely produced derivative which, in turn, goes on to make phenol for resins and adhesives, polymers and plastics and nylon.
In laboratory research, Toluene is now often used as a substitute for benzene. The solvent properties of the two are similar but toluene is less toxic and has a wider liquid range.