Release of photoinitiator fragments from UV-cured furniture coatings

Radiation cured furniture coatings for indoor use have often been criticized for strong odor. For a better understanding of the emission characteristics, the release of volatile organic compounds from some specially manufactured furniture was studied in 1 m(3) climate chambers. Special attention was given to the detection of photoinitiator fragments, which can significantly contribute to the pollution of indoor air. It was shown that the fragmentation products contributed 20-60% to the total emission, which was typically found in a range of 100 mu g/m(3) to 250 mu g/m(3) within the testing period of about 600 hr. One main compound was the strongly odorous benzaldehyde that is generated by many applied photoinitiators via alpha-cleavage. It was also observed that the curing time has a strong effect on the emission potential.