Measurement of Chemical Emissions from Spray Polyurethane Foam Insulation

This document is a technical report detailing the measurement of chemical emissions from Spray Polyurethane Foam (SPF) insulation using an automated micro-scale chamber system integrated with Gas Chromatography/Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS). The report outlines the methodology employed, which includes the analysis of closed-cell and open-cell SPF samples for total volatile organic compounds (TVOCs) and high boiling compounds, such as flame retardants and amine catalysts. It describes the experimental setup, which allows for unattended operation and precise control over variables such as time, gas flow, and temperature. The report also discusses the significance of determining emission behavior for establishing safe re-entry and re-occupancy times for building occupants. Additionally, it highlights the advantages of using micro-scale chambers over conventional methods, particularly in reducing sink effects for high boiling-point compounds. The results indicate a good correlation between the automated micro-scale chamber method and the VDA 278 method for VOC emissions assessment.