Modern paints are multi-component systems. Air quality testing may require separate sampling for solvents, non-volatile pigments, and additional collection media for the most toxic components of paint. LCS Laboratory Inc., is specialized in the laboratory analysis of industrial air samples. We can provide a turn-key air sampling solution for industrial operations of any scale, from manual paint application to automotive lines. The summary below only outlines some possible chemical components of industrial paints. For your own customized sampling strategy, please email us to discuss your project and we will help you navigate the options.
Water based paints and stains. The solvent is mostly water, with 0.1-10% of volatile alcohols. The solid base consists of metal oxide or salt: titanium dioxide, calcium carbonate, or iron oxide Binding material in the form of latex is also commonly present. Organic dyes are added for colour.
The air around a workstation can be tested for cellosolves (a type of volatile alcohols commonly used in water based paint), total inhalable dust, and metal content.
Oil based paints and stains. The paints are made with drying oils and are rarely used in industrial applications. Usually they have little to no solvent, but acetone or turpentine can be used for cleaning or as a thinner. The solid base consists of metal oxide or salt: titanium, lead, chromium cadmium, cobalt, and so on. Organic dyes are added for colour.
Air around a workstation can be tested for traces of thinner, but the biggest concern are the toxic metals that are used in the original paint.
Alkyd Paint. Typical solvents are naphtha and aromatic hydrocarbons. The solid base consists of metal oxide or salt: titanium dioxide, calcium carbonate or iron oxide. The binding material is polyester, modified with natural oils and their derivatives. Organic dyes are added for colour.
Air around a workstation can be tested for naphtha, benzene, toluene, xylene, ethylbenzene, trimethylbenzenes. Particulates should be collected as an inhalable dust with an analysis for metal content.
Melamine Formaldehyde paint or lacquer. Typical solvents may include alcohols, ethyl acetate and similar oxygenated solvents. The solid base consists of metal oxide or salt: titanium dioxide, calcium carbonate, or iron oxide. The binding material is poly-melamine-formaldehyde. Organic dyes are added for colour.
Air around a workstation can be tested for solvents that are listed in the SDS. Particulates should be collected as an inhalable dust with the a following analysis for metal content (if metals are listed). Lacquers are usually sold metal-free. New and old melamine coatings may emit a low level of highly toxic (and regulated) formaldehyde.
Polyurethane paints and lacquers. This two-component coating, consists of polyols and isocyanates. Sometimes the components are designated as part A and B or as “Paint” and “Catalyst”. Typical solvents may include ethyl acetate, ketones, naphtha, and esters. Usually, organic dyes are added for colour. The binding material is polyurethane, which is a product of a reaction of polyols and isocyanate.
Air around a workstation can be tested for solvents which are usually found in high concentration. Particulates should be collected as inhalable dust with an analysis for metal content (if metals are listed). Lacquers are usually sold metal-free. The most toxic component of polyurethane paint is isocyanate. This compound is extremely toxic and requires special safety precautions when used.
LCS Laboratory Inc., has years of experience in sampling and analysis of paints and their components. We offer ready to use sampling kits for professional air quality testing or provide access to an air quality specialist who will assist you with your project. For more information please contact us with your company name, location, and describe what the concern is. Thank you for your business.
