Volatile organic emissions from carpet adhesives

Abstract

In this study volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted during carpet installations employing water-based adhesives were characterized. The potential impacts of 4 adhesives on indoor air quality were evaluated. Headspace sampling and analysis by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry were used to qualitate VOC emissions. Adhesives and carpet/adhesive composite samples were prepared for quantitative analysis of VOC emissions by gas chromatography with flame ionization detection. Volatiles were concentrated using a monitoring device and collected on charcoal adsorption tubes. Sampling intervals ranged from 30 minutes to 21 days. The adhesives emitted primarily aromatic, alicyclic and aliphatic compounds as toluene, m-xylene, 1,2-dimethylcyclohexane, alpha-pinene, 2-methylheptane, octane, nonane, decane and undecane. Emission profiles depended on performance characteristics and manufacturer. A carpet boundary layer slowed VOC decay by acting as a sink. Potential overexposure within 24 hours to specific and total VOCs was indicated for one of the adhesives. This study suggests that water-based carpet adhesives are a potential source of indoor air pollutants.