What are SVOCs (and VOCs)?

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are a group of chemicals that can readily transform into vapor (a gas) at lower temperatures. Semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) are more likely to be liquids or solids at lower temperatures. Some examples of products that include SVOCs are many pesticides, oil-based products, and fire retardants. SVOCs can deposit on outdoor surfaces. VOCs are more likely to be dispersed, and monitored for, in the air.