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The fight against VOC
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) include a multitude of substances that may occur naturally or as a result of human activity. They always contain carbon and other elements such as hydrogen, halogens, oxygen, and sulphur. Their level of volatility gives them the capacity to spread either further or less far from their place of issue, resulting in indirect and direct impacts on plants and animals. Some VOCs, especially formaldehyde, present health risks, and it is precisely these types that Panaget has focused its actions and development on.
The aim of regulations is to reduce VOC emissions, in order to reduce their environmental impact. In parquet flooring, the emissions mainly come from the finishes and adhesives, which emit the highest levels of VOCs when in their liquid state. Panaget monitors these emissions in its workshops, to ensure it provides its staff with a healthy working environment. The emission values of the finished products vary between the phase in which the finish is applied and the drying period. Recent studies have demonstrated that untreated flooring is likely to give off more than varnished Panaget parquet flooring, and this is due to the film-forming nature of varnishes used.
Recognizing these challenges, Panaget has adopted a policy aimed at minimizing the VOC emissions of its wooden flooring. By using varnishes and adhesives that emit little or no formaldehyde, as well as carrying out studies on the panels used, Panaget has met the criteria for the European NF EN 717-1 standard, with the emission levels of its parquet flooring falling well below the maximum level permitted.
Following these results, Panaget is continuing its research, in order to ensure it can keep providing its customers with high-quality flooring.
