The Comparison of VOC Characteristics Emitted from Wood-based Panels Using GC/FID and GC/MS

In this study, the Total Volatile Organic Compounds (TVOC) emitted from wood-based panels were compared by two analytical methods using the GC/FID and the GC/MS. Japanese Larch, Yellow Poplar, Particle Board (PB) and Medium Density Fiberboard (MDF) were selected as target materials. Major compounds emitted from the panels were Toluene, ${\alpha}$-pinene, ${\beta}$-pinene and limonene. In case of TVOC using GC/FID method, MDF E2 (1,497 ${\mu}g/m^3$) revealed the highest concentration among all wood-based panels, while Japanese Larch (1,772 ${\mu}g/m^3$) showed the highest value with respect to GC/MS method. Furthermore, it was found that the amount of VOC emitted from panels was different depending upon analytical methods. This significant difference was attributed to analytical sensitivities of GC/FID and GC/MS for various VOC. Besides, it was found that the composition ratios of main VOC compounds were not significantly different.