VOCsisaldust

VOCsisaldust is a term used to describe the content of volatile organic compounds that are associated with dust particles in indoor and outdoor environments. The concept focuses on VOCs that are bound to or embedded in dust rather than those present solely as gas-phase compounds, highlighting a potential route of exposure that combines particulate and gaseous pollution.

VOCs in dust can originate from a variety of sources, including household products, building materials, outdoor pollution, and human activities. The dust can act as a reservoir, adsorbing VOCs when ambient air is laden with VOCs, and releasing them over time, particularly when disturbed, heated, or resurfaced by cleaning or airflow.

Measurement of VOCsisaldust typically involves collecting dust samples and analyzing bound VOCs using techniques such as thermal desorption followed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) or solvent extraction with GC-MS. Results are commonly reported as the mass of VOC per unit mass of dust or as a potential for re-emission under defined environmental conditions.

Health relevance is a primary consideration, as exposure to VOCs bound to dust can occur through inhalation of dust, dermal contact, or re-aerosolization. The health impact depends on the specific compounds present, their concentrations, exposure duration, and individual susceptibility. VOCsisaldust assessments can complement indoor air quality evaluations and exposure models by addressing the dust-bound component of VOC exposure.

Limitations and regulation: there is no universal standard for VOCsisaldust, and methods vary in sampling, extraction, and analysis. The concept remains most relevant to indoor air quality and occupational hygiene, where dust control, ventilation, and source management contribute to reducing overall VOC exposure. See also volatile organic compounds, indoor air quality, dust, and exposure assessment.