The paper describes the technical approach for volatile organic compound (VOC) emissions testing for an alkyd paint and results from the tests to evaluate substrate effects. The U.S. EPA is conducting research to characterize VOC emissions from paint and to develop source emissions models to be used for exposure assessment and risk management. The technical approach for this research involves both paint formulation analysis to identify and quantify VOC contents and dynamic small chamber emissions tests to characterize the emissions after application. The predominant constituents of the paint selected for testing are alkanes (C9-C12) and C8-C9 aromatics. Primer and paint have been applied to glass, wallboard, and pine board to assess substrate effects on emission characteristics. The VOCs in these solvent-based paints are emitted rapidly after application, with over 90% of the total VOCs emitted during the first 24 hours following application. The data do not indicate any substantial effect of the substrate on the VOC emissions. In addition to the alkanes and aromatics, aldehydes were detected in the emissions during paint drying.

"EPA/600/A-98/024." "PB98-140270." "Presented at Engineering Solutions to IAQ Problems, Research Triangle Park, NC, 7/21-23/97."" "John C.S. Chang, project officer." Microfiche.