Review of United States and International Formaldehyde Emission Regulations for Interior Wood Composite Panels

Authors

  • Thomas C. Ruffing
  • Wenping "Wendy" Shi
  • Nicole R. Brown
  • Paul M. Smith

Keywords:

Formaldehyde emissions, wood composites, CARB regulation, indoor air quality

Abstract

This article compares and contrasts formaldehyde emission regulations for interior wood composite panels in the US, the European Union, Japan, and China. Historical context, product-specific emission limits, test methods, and product certification requirements are detailed for each emission standard. In particular, the recently enacted California Air Resources Board (CARB) formaldehyde regulation is compared with established international formaldehyde regulations and differences in four key areas, emission limits, documentation, deconstructive testing, and enforcement, are highlighted. Implications of CARB and US Environmental Protection Agency regulatory actions are discussed, and future work is suggested in the rapidly evolving and highly debated arena of formaldehyde emission policy.

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Published

2011-01-21

Issue

Number 1 / January 2011

Section

Research Contributions

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