GMW GMW15634 PDF

Purpose. This test procedure is used for the qualitative and semi-quantitative determination of Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) and Semi-Volatile Organic Compound (SVOC/FOG) emissions in vehicle Interior Materials (IM) utilizing Thermal Desorption - Gas Chromatography/Mass Selective Detection (TD-GC/MSD). 

Individual VOC and SVOC emissions in different vehicle interior materials can be identified, semiquantified, and compared.

VOC emissions in the boiling point range ≤ 345 °C or chromatographic elution range from n-pentane (n-C5) to n-pentacosane (n-C25) (VOC value) can be detected by this method. It is assumed that these substances can be detected from an analysis of the vehicle interior air.

Emissions that condense on a vehicle surface, e.g., glass, plastic lens, etc., at ambient temperature, are classified as SVOC or FOG emissions. SVOC emissions are in the boiling point range ≥ 280 °C or chromatographic elution range from n-tetradecane (n-C14) to n-dotriacontane (n-C32) (SVOC/FOG value) and can be detected by this method.

Applicability. All materials that can contribute to emissions in the vehicle interior cabin interior have to be tested. Examples include emissions from textiles, carpets, adhesives, sealants, foams, plastic components, films, leather, interior paints, and composite materials.

In relation to emissions, the relevant vehicle interior area comprises all areas that are linked to the passenger compartment either directly or by air contact. Therefore, it includes the luggage compartment, the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) system, etc.

The results of this test procedure will provide additional information to interpret findings in GMW3059, GMW3205, and GMW3235. The analytical instruments described in Appendix A, Table A1, can be used in GMW15654 to determine the VOCs and SVOCs in vehicle cabin air. 

Suppliers must submit the TD-GC/MSD analysis results together with a material sample.

This test procedure complements Verband der Automobilindustrie (VDA) 278 and results may be compared to the American Industrial Hygiene Association (AIHA) health standards.