Emissions of volatile organic compounds from lacquer coatings used in the furniture industry, modified with nanoparticles of inorganic metal compounds

This study presents results of studies on emissions of volatile organic compounds from lacquer products containing nanoparticles of inorganic metal compounds (SiO2, TiO2, and Ag). The lacquers selected for analyses were applied on the surface of Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.) wood. Tests were conducted by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry and thermal desorption. Concentrations of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released to the air by tested coatings in the first stage of the analyses fell within a very broad range (307–1829 μg/m³). Analyses of VOC emissions were conducted after 1, 3, 5, 7, 10, 30, 60, and 90 days. After 90 days VOC concentrations were significantly lower, ranging from 42 to 101 μg/m³. A broad spectrum of compounds, comprising aldehydes, esters, ketones, aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons, alcohols, glycols, and terpenes, was identified in the tested air.