Volatile organic substances (VOCs) are chemicals that harm human health and the environment. In order to reduce the amount of volatile organic substances released to the environment and protect human health and environmental conditions, various regulations have been made at international level.

Volatile organic compounds are among the most important pollutants arising from activities in industrial plants. A number of directives have been adopted by the European Union to limit, monitor and control volatile organic substances. For example,

• The directive 99 / 13 / AT is concerned with limiting the amount of volatile organic compounds resulting from the use of organic solvents in certain activities and facilities.
• Directive 2004 / 42 / AT concerns the limitation of the amount of volatile organic substances caused by organic solvents used in certain paints and varnish products.

Various finishing and finishing processes, drying processes and the use of a number of solvents in the textile sector lead to the formation of volatile organic matter emissions. Limit values ​​of possible emissions in textile enterprises are explained in the Regulation on Control of Industrial Air Pollution issued by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry in 2009.

The organic volatile compounds are aliphatic or aromatic hydrocarbons, which create air pollution by atmospheric reaction. These substances cause serious health problems in humans when inhaled with air. In order to protect against the harmful effects of volatile substances, volatile organic compound measurements should be carried out in regular intervals according to standards.

Volatile substances for the textile industry include paint thinners, non-water based adhesives, solvents, paint removers and spray paints.

Volatile organic compounds released in industrial processes cause a decrease in air quality and environmental pollution and it is necessary to reduce the use of products containing these substances. All countries are constantly trying to reduce their emission limits and conduct continuous measurements and analyzes. It is also important for textile companies to have these tests done.

Various tests are conducted in authorized laboratories to determine the presence and quantity of volatile organic compounds in textile products.