Test bench with emission test cells

We use our ETC test bench (emission test cell) to assess the emission potential of building products. Experiments are conducted over a specific period of time or under defined temperature or humidity conditions. The test cells are capable of detecting SVOCs (Semi Volatile Organic Compounds), VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) and VVOCs (Very Volatile Organic Compounds), as well as aldehydes and ketones. Depending on requirements, the tests can be extended to other target components such as amines, odorous substances or glycols, or to evaluate the absorption capacity of building products (e.g. odor absorption).

Emission tests are performed using test cells of varying sizes:

• Micro chamber/thermal extractor (44 cm³, max. 120 °C)
• 4 l headspace chamber (static or dynamic, adjustable temperature and humidity)
• 12 l or 25 l desiccators (static or dynamic, usually RT, humidity can be varied)
• 200 l or 230 l emission test cells according to DIN EN ISO 16000-9 and EN 16516
• 1 m³ emission test cells

The tests conducted at Fraunhofer IBP are particularly informative due to the fact that odor analysis results (intensity, odor quality, hedonics) can be coupled with information from a panel of regularly-trained sensory experts. Tests can be performed either directly in the test cells or using sampling bags.

Our laboratory is accredited by the German accreditation body (DAkkS) under Document Number D-PL-11140-11-02 for testing according to DIN EN 16516, ISO 16000-3, 16000-6 and 16000-9, and listed by the German Institute for Construction Technology (DIBt) as an approved center for tests according to DIN EN 16516.