Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are highly reactive chemicals that form many atmospheric pollutants through a series of atmospheric reactions. Volatile chemical products (VCPs) are a specific type of VOC used in cleaning products, fragrances, personal care products, and manufacturing. As traffic emissions decrease due to successful air quality regulation, the air quality impacts of VCPs become more evident. However, identifying the source of a specific VCP can be difficult, as many processes emit the same chemicals.

In summer 2023, we took a series of air samples from Mineola, NY to identify and measure VCPs. We observed over 90 compounds, including chemicals that are used in manufacturing processes, perfumes, and cleaning products. A computer program helped identify which sources are the main contributors to urban air quality. We found that both local and regional VCP sources influenced Mineola air quality. Personal care products, such as perfumes and lotions, were especially prominent in our samples and we suspect they are influencing local air pollution.