Research on the types and toxicity of VOCs released from solvent-based inks in high temperature environment

During the utilization, blending, transportation, and storage, a significant amount of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are released from inks, posing risks to both human health and the ecological environment. This study sought to identify the types and structures of VOCs released from four types of solvent-based inks (referred to as CAB, PVB, AKR, and Rs inks) in high-temperature settings and to assess the bioaccumulation factors, developmental toxicity, and acute toxicity of these released VOCs. The findings revealed that all tested inks released substantial amounts of VOCs in high-temperature environments. CAB and PVB inks released fewer types of VOCs with relatively smaller molecular weights, primarily with carboxylic acid groups and hydroxyl groups, while AKR and Rs inks released more types of VOCs with larger molecular weights, including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. Toxicity analysis indicated that although the primary VOCs released from CAB and PVB ink displayed some developmental toxicity, their bioaccumulation factors were below 100. The principal VOCs from AKR ink did not exhibit developmental toxicity. Conversely, the predominant VOCs from Rs ink not only demonstrated developmental toxicity but also had bioaccumulation factors exceeding 100. Additionally, the VOCs released from CAB, PVB, and AKR inks exhibited stronger acute toxicity to luminescent bacteria, while those from Rs ink showed greater acute toxicity to fish. These results offer a scientific foundation for the safe usage of inks and environmental conservation.<i>Implications</i>: This study provides critical insights into the types and toxicity of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) emitted from solvent-based inks under high-temperature conditions. The findings have significant implications for environmental policy and industrial practices. The identification of VOCs, particularly from CAB, PVB, AKR, and Rs inks, and their associated health and ecological risks, can inform regulatory bodies about the need for stricter emission controls. The assessment of bioaccumulation factors and acute toxicity highlights the potential for these compounds to accumulate in organisms and impact aquatic life, necessitating the development of safer ink formulations and disposal methods. Policymakers can leverage these results to update environmental regulations, promote the use of eco-friendly inks, and encourage technological advancements in the printing industry to minimize VOC emissions. Additionally, the study underscores the importance of continued research in this area to further understand the long-term effects of VOCs on human health and the environment, ultimately guiding more sustainable and responsible industrial practices.