VOCs (Marine)

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the marine setting are carbon-based chemicals that evaporate readily, released from crude oil and refined product cargoes during loading, transfer, and tank venting. The dominant species are benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, and xylene (BTEX) plus light alkanes. They pose an inhalation and explosion hazard to crew and contribute to ground-level ozone and photochemical smog in port airsheds. MARPOL Annex VI Regulation 15 lets a port state require a vapor emission control system at terminals loading designated VOC-emitting cargoes, and tankers carry approved VOC management plans.