VOC Emissions Testing for Electronics

Overview

Indoor air quality is a particular concern when it comes to electronics that, when heated during operation, can release volatile organic chemicals (VOCs) and particles into the air. Testing follows the guidelines developed jointly by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). ISO/IEC 28360 harmonizes test methods ECMA-328 and the Blue Angel protocol for measuring printer emissions (RAL-UZ 171, Appendix S-M). The method includes measurement techniques for VOCs, ozone, dust and ultrafine particles.

Emission rate data for printers can be used to determine compliance with the Blue Angel criteria for substance emissions in RAL-UZ 171 and RAL-UZ 55. Data for laptops, PCs, displays and all-in-ones can be compared to the Japan Electronics and Information Technology Industries Association (JEITA) VOC guidelines.

Emission rates for all products can be used to model indoor exposure concentrations to determine potential risk for exposure in indoor environments. This data is used to determine compliance with occupational exposure requirements, California Proposition 65 labeling requirements and other regulations.

Benefits

Manufacturers of electronics can begin testing with the ISO/IEC 28360 method as a great first step toward creating lower emission, more environmentally friendly products. By testing to the ISO/IEC 28360 standard, manufacturers can:

• Minimize odor complaints and determine consumer acceptability
• Demonstrate compliance with industry requirements
• Bring products to market that support healthier indoor environments
• Use results as baseline testing for regulatory risk assessments for user exposure
• Take the first step toward compliance and certification with programs, including GREENGUARD and Blue Angel

Why UL Solutions

A trusted resource for product emissions testing, UL Solutions has evaluated more than 70,000 products and cataloged more than 10,000 chemicals from product emissions. Our state-of-the-art technology enables us to measure chemicals from a wide range of products with the utmost precision. Our familiarity with both national and international emissions testing standards, green building codes and rating systems enables us to help manufacturers conduct product emissions testing in ways that maximize efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

Related standards

• UL 110 Standard for Sustainability for Mobile Phones
• UL 2819 GREENGUARD Certification Program for Chemical and Particle Emissions for Electronic Equipment
• UL 2823 GREENGUARD Certification Program Method for Measuring and Evaluating Chemical and Particle Emissions From Electronic Equipment Using Dynamic Environmental Chambers
• ECMA-328
• ISO/IEC 28360
• RAL-UZ 171, Appendix S-M
• California Proposition 65
• RAL-UZ 55
• JEITA VOC Guidelines
• ECMA-328