Q & A: Removal of VOCS from Indoor Environment

Smoke and tobacco odor explained

by Thad Godish, Ph.D

Q. I heard that gasses in the indoor air, particularly left behind from smoke, act as collectors of other VOCs? Or they act like magnets? Is this true? Also, does anything other than ventilation remove the gasses from the indoor environment ? - Barb, Ohio

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A. In the case of tobacco smoke, vapors that persist or remain behind are actually emitting from smoke particles (tars, etc.) that have deposited on interior building surfaces. The "vapors" that are being released are what are known as semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs).

SVOCs have very low vapor pressures. As a consequence they only slowly volatilize. They don't remain in the vapor-phase long since they rapidly condense. Because of this volatilization-condensation phenomenon, SVOCs move from one surface to another. As a consequence, the odor persists sometimes even for years. The gases don't act as magnets. However, particles no matter what their origin can sorb a variety of gas-phase substances to their surfaces which can subsequently desorb.

Ventilation can reduce odors associated with tobacco smoke and other contaminants. The higher the ventilation rate the faster vapor-phase substances including SVOCs "de-gas" from building surfaces. Even with high ventilation rates, it will take time to get rid of tobacco smoke odors (months to a year or more). Because odor-causing substances are associated with particles deposited on surfaces, the most effective approach is to clean building surfaces with a strong detergent. This includes walls and ceilings. Soft furniture and carpeting may have to be shampooed.

Tobacco particles are very small (they are microscopic) and tend to deposit almost anywhere. Unfortunately, that also means heating and cooling ducts as well. Some duct cleaners can clean your ducts to remove smoke odors.Tobacco smoke because of its nature causes odors that persist for years. You can get rid of most of this odor by rigorously cleaning your home/building.

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First Published: early November 2002
Updated: April 2007

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