New VOC Methodologies and Improved Formulation

Methodologies for determining VOC levels in paints and coatings have historically been based on EPA Method 24. This method remains the industry standard, however there are new analytical methods that potentially allow for a more accurate determination of volatiles and VOC content in paints and coatings. ASTM Method D6886 and other similar gas chromatograph-based methods are gaining preference for determining VOC of low- and zero-VOC coatings. South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) is proposing their Method 313 which is also a gas chromatograph-based method that utilizes a methyl palmitate boiling point marker to separate VOCs from non-VOC compounds.

While these new methods may provide improvements in the precision of VOC determination of very low VOC products, they also introduce new potential problems when analyzing fully formulated paints. When employing a gas chromatograph-based method, popular additives including biocides, humectants, colorants, photoinitiators, and low-VOC coalescents may be identified as VOCs due to their having retention times less than the methyl palmitate boiling point marker. There is also additional uncertainty which requires validation of possible by-products produced in the heated inlet of the gas chromatograph arising from various compounds commonly used in paint formulations.

This presentation will compare EPA Method 24 with the ASTM D6886 method and show low- and zero-VOC paints and additives results when analyzed using the ASTM D6886 method with the methyl palmitate marker. It is important that those who develop, formulate, and manufacture paints and coatings understand the potential VOC implications that these new methods may have on current and future products.

 Presented at the Coatings Regulations & Analytical Methods Conference in May, 2015.