Low-Emission Construction Chemicals: How to Reduce VOCs and Improve Indoor Air Quality

Photo: Declan Sun / Unsplash

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) released from paints, adhesives, flooring materials, or insulation are a long-discussed issue. Their negative impact on indoor air quality manifests not only as unpleasant odors but also through health problems such as headaches, respiratory irritation, or allergic reactions. With increasing demands for sustainability and healthy indoor environments, more manufacturers and processors are turning to low-emission alternatives. However, these require not only the selection of the right raw materials but also precise technological processes—from mixing to application. What options does construction chemistry offer today, and what should you watch out for?

What are VOCs and why is reducing them important

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs, from the English Volatile Organic Compounds) represent a group of chemical compounds that easily evaporate at room temperature. They are found in many building materials, such as paints, adhesives, sealants, insulating foams, or flooring. Among the most common VOCs are formaldehyde, benzene, toluene, xylenes, or acetone. Their emissions into indoor air can cause health issues, such as headaches, eye and respiratory tract irritation, allergic reactions, or fatigue. Long-term exposure to higher concentrations of VOCs can lead to more serious health problems, including damage to the liver, kidneys, or central nervous system.

Reducing VOC emissions is therefore crucial not only for health protection but also for improving the overall quality of indoor environments. In the European Union, VOC emissions are regulated by the REACH regulation and the directive on volatile organic compounds, which sets limits for their content in various types of products. Manufacturers of construction chemicals must therefore focus on developing low-emission alternatives that meet strict environmental standards while maintaining the required technical properties. This contributes to more sustainable construction and healthier living.

Key categories of low-emission construction chemicals

Low-emission construction chemicals include a wide range of products designed to minimize the release of VOCs into the air. Among the most significant categories are water-based paints and varnishes, which, unlike traditional solvent-based systems, contain a significantly lower proportion of organic solvents. These products often use natural or synthetic polymers that, after drying, form a durable film with minimal emissions. Another important group is water-based adhesives, which replace solvent-based adhesives and are suitable for a wide range of materials, including wood, metals, or plastics.

In the field of sealants and insulating materials, products based on MS polymers (modified silanes) or isocyanate-free polyurethanes are gaining ground, which exhibit low to zero VOC emissions. For flooring systems, low-emission self-levelling compounds and epoxy or polyurethane screeds with certification for use in interiors with high air quality requirements are available. These materials often meet stringent ecological certifications, such as EU Ecolabel or Cradle to Cradle, which guarantee their environmental friendliness and user health safety.

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Technologies and raw materials for reducing VOC in construction chemicals

The development of low-emission construction chemicals is based on innovative technologies and the use of special raw materials. One of the key approaches is replacing traditional organic solvents with water or bio-based solvents, which have lower volatility and a smaller environmental impact. For example, acrylic or vinyl dispersions are often used in water-dilutable coatings, forming a solid and durable film after water evaporation without significant emissions. Another option is reactive diluents, which chemically bond into the material structure during curing and do not evaporate into the atmosphere.

Additives also play a significant role, enabling the reduction of VOC content without compromising technical properties. These include, for example, plasticizers based on low-volatility phthalic acid esters, or surfactants that improve the stability and processability of water-dilutable systems. For adhesives and sealants, polymers with low molecular weight are used, which do not require the addition of volatile solvents. It is also important to optimize mixing and application processes to minimize VOC evaporation during processing.

Practical tips for selecting and applying low-emission construction chemicals

When selecting low-emission construction chemicals, it is important to pay attention to several key factors. The first step is to check certifications and labels that confirm low VOC content. Among the best-known are the "Blue Angel", "EU Ecolabel", or "Greenguard" labels, which guarantee compliance with strict environmental and health standards. It is also advisable to compare product technical data sheets and focus on the declared VOC content, which should be as low as possible – ideally below 1 g/l for coatings and adhesives, or below 10 g/l for sealants and insulation materials.

When applying low-emission materials, several principles must be followed to minimize VOC release and ensure maximum efficiency. It is important to work in well-ventilated areas and adhere to the recommended temperature and humidity conditions specified by the manufacturer in the technical data sheet. For example, water-based coatings should be applied at temperatures above 10 °C and relative humidity below 80 % to prevent prolonged drying times and increased water evaporation. After application, it is advisable to ensure adequate ventilation for at least 48 hours to allow VOC emissions to dissipate as quickly as possible.

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Certifications and ecological standards for low-emission construction chemicals

The selection of low-emission products is facilitated by certifications and ecological standards that clearly define limits for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other harmful emissions. Among the most widespread is the European Ecolabel, which guarantees a low content of VOCs and other hazardous substances in a wide range of construction materials. Similarly, the German Blue Angel standard focuses on health safety and environmental friendliness. For interior applications, the Emicode certification is key, as it evaluates emissions from floor adhesives, fillers, and coatings according to strict criteria.

It is important to verify whether the certification covers the entire life cycle of the product—from production to disposal. For example, the Cradle to Cradle system assesses not only emissions but also the recyclability of packaging and the energy intensity of production. When selecting raw materials for construction chemicals, it is advisable to prefer products with transparent composition and emission declarations according to the REACH methodology. This allows for precise evaluation of potential risks and ensures compliance with indoor air quality requirements in buildings.

Impact of Low-Emission Materials on Building Microclimate and User Health

Reducing VOCs in construction chemicals has a direct impact on the microclimate of interiors and the health of their users. High concentrations of volatile organic compounds can cause Sick Building Syndrome (SBS), which manifests as headaches, respiratory irritation, or allergic reactions. Low-emission materials, such as water-based coatings or adhesives based on natural resins, minimize these risks and contribute to long-term stable air quality.

An important factor is also the permeability of materials to water vapor, which prevents the accumulation of moisture and mold growth. For example, mineral plasters or coatings with high diffusion capacity allow natural humidity regulation, thereby reducing the need for mechanical ventilation. For sensitive spaces such as nurseries or healthcare facilities, products with a declared VOC content below 1 g/l are recommended, a value considered safe even for long-term exposure.

Economic Aspects of Transitioning to Low-Emission Construction Chemicals

While transitioning to low-emission construction chemicals may involve a higher initial investment, it brings long-term savings and competitive advantages. Lower VOC emissions often correlate with higher material efficiency – for instance, adhesives with low solvent content exhibit better adhesion and durability, extending the lifespan of structures. Additionally, costs for ventilation and air conditioning are reduced, as there is no need to vent toxic fumes.

For manufacturers and developers, low-emission chemistry also serves as a tool to meet increasingly stringent legislative requirements, such as the REACH regulation or national indoor air quality standards. Investing in eco-friendly solutions also positively impacts building ratings under systems like LEED or BREEAM, increasing their market value. For companies, it is crucial to evaluate the total life cycle costs (LCC) and consider not only the price of raw materials but also savings on maintenance and health benefits for users.

Need advice on selecting low-emission raw materials?

Every application requires an individual approach – whether it's flooring materials, adhesives, or waterproofing systems. GCG Group provides detailed safety and technical data sheets for supplied raw materials, including information on VOC emissions and recommended procedures for minimizing risks. Contact us – or browse our catalog of over 1,300 products.