Outgassing, volatile organic content, and contamination content of materials used in today´s electronics workplace

The purpose of this paper is to educate the individual in a manufacturing facility on how to avoid component contamination, and reduce health hazards to him/herself and to the environment. VOCs (volatile organic compounds) can cause cancer, kidney, brain, lung and liver damage, and may also cause rejects when the compounds become VCM (volatile condensable materials) on the components. This awareness will help the engineer and purchasing agent in procuring the safest product. In addition, this information will also help the material manufacturers to (1) be aware of their responsibility to the industry in general, and (2) the necessity of improving their material or product for both the end user and the environment.