A Comparative Study of TVOC and HCHO Emissions From Various Multilayer Built-in Furniture Components Based on ISO 16000-9:2006 Emission Test Chamber Methods

Abstract

Multilayer materials of built-in furniture components emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the indoor environment. Although many green building rating systems have set criteria for indoor environments, typical buildings in Thailand have not implemented these requirements, especially for local furniture. This study aimed to identify the magnitude of VOC emissions and the relationships between these VOC emissions and inner structures, finishing techniques used for built-in components, and the cost of interior built-in furniture built by local contractors. A total of 33 specimens of built-in components normally found in Thailand were prepared and wrapped in plastic before being transported to the test facility. The total volatile organic compound (TVOC) and formaldehyde (HCHO) emission rates were measured using emission test chambers, as per the ISO 16000-9 standard, with a size of 0.21 m³, at a temperature of 23 °C, a relative humidity of 45%, an air exchange rate of 0.5 ACH, and a loading factor of 0.42 m²m-³. The measurements were conducted 3 days and 28 days after the specimens were unwrapped. It was found that specimens finished with coating techniques had the highest TVOC and HCHO emission rates, while those with single-layer materials that used covering techniques had the lowest TVOC and HCHO emission rates. The covering techniques were found to be cheaper but less durable than coating techniques. All specimens exhibited high emission concentrations in the chambers (i.e., more than the standard limit) even after 28 days. This should help raise awareness of the importance of selecting built-in furniture based on finishing techniques that make use of low-VOC materials, which are available on the market and provide better indoor air quality.