Our mold-specific VOC (m-VOC) test identifies the unique airborne chemicals released by actively growing mold. We use a super-sensitive approach inspired by the EPA’s TO-17 standard, enabling detection of mold growth signals that other methods can miss.
1. We mail you a small, passive diffusive sampler containing a specially prepared VOC adsorbent validated for m-VOC collection.
2. You place the sampler in the area of concern for the recommended exposure time (typically 48 hours).
3. After exposure, seal it in the provided return packaging and mail it back to our laboratory.
4. In the lab, we analyze the sampler using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) with Single Ion Monitoring (SIM).
5. SIM focuses on specific mass ions unique to each m-VOC target and averages the signal, dramatically improving sensitivity for trace-level detection.
6. We compare detected compounds to the published mVOC 4.0 reference, which links certain VOCs to the fungal species known to produce them.
7. You receive a clear, easy-to-read report with findings and recommended next steps.
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What are m-VOCs?
Mold emits small, volatile chemicals as part of its metabolism. These are real-time indicators of active growth—unlike spores, which can be dormant or intermittent. Some m-VOCs can contribute to odors, irritation, poor indoor air quality, and may even cause health problems in sensitive individuals.
Why a diffusive sampler?
Mold activity changes with humidity, temperature, and time of day. By sampling over a 48-hour period, we average across these changes to capture a more reliable picture of true activity—short 2–3 hour samples can miss active periods.
Why GC-MS with SIM?
GC separates complex indoor air mixtures; MS identifies compounds by their mass/charge “fingerprints.” Single Ion Monitoring (SIM) focuses on diagnostic ions specific to each target and averages their signals, greatly improving the signal-to-noise ratio and lowering detection limits.
Why literature references?
The m-VOC 4.0 database compiles peer-reviewed links between specific VOCs and the fungi that produce them, giving context that helps interpret results.
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