Where are VOCs commonly found?

Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) are commonly found in cleaning products and paints due to their chemical properties. These compounds have high vapor pressures at room temperature, which means they easily evaporate into the air. This characteristic is often utilized in various household and industrial products to enhance performance—such as providing easier application or faster drying times.

In cleaning products, VOCs can serve as solvents or surfactants that aid in removing dirt and stains. Similarly, in paints, VOCs contribute to the application process and the finish of the product. However, many VOCs can also pose health risks when inhaled in large quantities, leading to indoor air quality concerns.

While other choices do have some level of VOC presence, such as electronic devices potentially containing small amounts of VOCs from materials used in manufacturing, they are not significant sources compared to cleaning products and paints. Brick and mortar primarily consist of inorganic materials and do not release VOCs, while natural gas pipelines may contain some hydrocarbons, but they are not typically associated with VOC emission like household products are. Thus, cleaning products and paints stand out as the primary sources of VOC exposure in indoor environments.