EPA's Photochemical Reactivity-Overview and Update
A lot has been learned about photochemical reactivity since the EPA adopted its current policy for controlling VOCs in 1977, and research continues. Some changes in the EPA's policy regarding VOC control may be on the horizon.
Photochemical reactivity is an important consideration when the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) thinks about controlling organic solvent emissions to prevent ozone or smog formation. Because the paint industry is a heavy user of solvents, it might be valuable for paint industry personnel to become familiar with this issue.
This article summarizes EPA's current policy regarding VOC control and provides a glimpse of some of the changes that may be on the horizon. Special attention is given to the criteria EPA uses to select VOCs for exemption from control because of low photochemical reactivity.