VOCniveau

VOCniveau refers to the concentration of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in a given environment, typically indoor air. In Dutch usage, the term often denotes the total VOC level (TVOC) but can also refer to concentrations of specific VOCs such as formaldehyde, benzene, or toluene. Values are usually expressed in micrograms per cubic meter (µg/m3) or, less commonly, in parts per billion (ppb).

Measurement methods for VOCniveau include active sampling with sorbent tubes or canisters followed by laboratory analysis, passive diffusion samplers, and real-time instruments such as photoionization detectors. TVOC meters provide a single aggregate reading, while laboratory analysis can identify and quantify individual compounds. Real-time devices offer rapid indications of changes but may be less precise for specifying which VOCs are present.

VOCniveau is a key indicator of indoor air quality and is used to identify sources of emissions, including paints, coatings, solvents, adhesives, cleaning products, furnishings, and building materials. Understanding the VOCniveau helps guide ventilation strategies, source control, and material selection to reduce exposure. High or fluctuating VOCniveau can be associated with irritation of eyes, nose, and throat, headaches, or dizziness; certain VOCs carry longer-term health risks with prolonged exposure.

Standards and interpretation of VOCniveau vary by country and organization, and there is no universal global threshold for TVOC. Many guidelines provide action levels or targets for reducing emissions or improving ventilation rather than a single universal limit. In practice, VOCniveau data informs ventilation design, emission testing, and indoor air quality management.