Sources and impacts of VOCs
VOC (volatile organic compounds)

The definitions proposed above imply a variety of organic compounds likely to be encountered in the gaseous emissions of various human activities (figure 1). The nature of VOCs in the industrial sector is highly varied, but can be broadly determined (table 1). Concentrations vary widely from one area to another, ranging from micrograms per cubic metre to several grams per cubic metre. Concentrations of 5 to 10 g/m³ are typically measured when degreasing metal parts, while values for paint application in spray booths range from 20 to 500 mg/m³