An experimental study of spray foam insulation products-evidence of 1,2-dichloropropane and 1,4-dioxane emissions

摘要

An experimental study was conducted using SPME-GC-MS and TD-GC-MS to analyse VOC emissions from three spray foam insulation products. Two closed cell and one open cell materials were tested using SPME-GC-MS passive sampling and a range of VOCs were found with 1,2-dichloropropane (1,2-DCP) found in all products. TD-GC-MS analysis of Product 1 (a closed cell foam) and the raw material used for its production (B-side) showed that 1,4-dioxane and 1,2-DCP were both present in the raw material and emitted from the cured foam product. Our findings are currently limited and preliminary, but do seem to indicate that industrial contamination of raw chemicals could be the likely source of these compounds. This could raise the issue of Class 1 and 2B carcinogen VOCs being present in raw polyurethane spray foam insulation (SPF) materials should systematic evidence is provided. As per WHO guidance, it would be a better strategy to remove pollutants at the source. Further research will aim to quantify emission concentrations during application and examine the impact of application strategies.