What is a characteristic of microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOC)?

Microbial volatile organic compounds (MVOCs) are organic chemicals that are produced by microorganisms, including molds and bacteria. One of the key characteristics of MVOCs is that they are responsible for the musty or unpleasant odors often associated with mold growth. These compounds can be released into the air and are detectable by humans, even at low concentrations, which is why they are linked to the characteristic smells that indicate mold presence.

This property of MVOCs is crucial in assessing indoor air quality because their presence can signal ongoing mold activity. This can lead to health concerns for occupants due to exposure to mold and its byproducts. The ability of these compounds to produce odor is one of the primary reasons for monitoring and assessing mold problems in various environments.