How Can I Protect my Family from VOCs?
Volatile organic compounds (VOC) are chemicals that contain carbon and have a low boiling point. Because of this low boiling point, they tend to evaporate from liquid to gas at room temperature. This ease of evaporation is where part of the name comes from. In chemistry, the term volatile is used to refer to substances that evaporate easily at standard temperatures. It does not, as those not in the field of chemistry might tend to think, refer to something explosive, such as a “volatile situation.” However, it is important to keep in mind that some volatile chemicals can be dangerous.
What Is the Source of VOCs?
Some of them are naturally produced, such as isoprene released by plants or mycotoxins produced by molds. Isoprene is produced by many trees and shrubs, is responsible for one-third of the world’s atmospheric hydrocarbons, and is the main chemical of which natural rubber is comprised. Many people are familiar with mycotoxins. They are responsible for the smell and illness that can occur when a house is infested with toxic mold. Some VOCs come from man-made substances, such as paints, solvent thinners, lubricants, formaldehyde and as a byproduct of the combustion of fossil fuels.
How Do VOCs Get Into the Water Supply?
Man-made VOCs, when not properly disposed of, can leach into groundwater following spills or improper disposal. There are also VOCs, both naturally occurring and man-made byproducts, in the atmosphere. When they reach a height at which the atmospheric temperature is lower than their boiling point, they can re-liquify, through condensation, and return to the ground in rain or snow. Once on the ground, they can flow into the water supply and end up in the public water supply and in private wells.
Ill-Effects of VOCs on Health
Once VOCs get into your water supply, they can be ingested if your water isn’t adequately filtered. Every chemical is going to be different, obviously, but there are many symptoms that can be caused by these hydrocarbons. They can lead to anything from minor problems, including digestive or central nervous system damage, to life-threatening health concerns, such as organ failure or cancer. Some signs of VOC exposure can include headache, nausea, fatigue, or dizziness.
Ill-Effects of VOCs on The Environment
Regulations on VOC emissions have been implemented worldwide due to the dangerous effects it can have on the environment. It can affect the climate change and cause decay of plants. A study by the National Academy of Sciences claims that the release of chlorofluoromethanes and chlorine containing compounds into the atmosphere causes infrared radiation which in turn causes global climate change.
The Effectiveness of Water Filters in Removing VOCs
Activated carbon filters are very effective for removing VOCs, due to their large surface area and elaborate network of pores and micropores. This causes the VOC molecules to be physically attracted towards activated carbon and held by it.
One sure way to safeguard your water supply is to install specialized VOC water filters in your house. Water filters, such as the ones that can be found here, use activated carbon treated with aluminium in a cutting edge new technological process to remove VOC from your water. Water filters can be installed to the water line before it enters your home, preventing both ingestion and topical exposure to VOCs. Keep in mind air filters are also important to remove VOCs from entering your home.
