This part of ISO 11890 is one of a series of standards dealing with the sampling and testing of paints, varnishes and related products.

It specifies a method for the determination of the volatile organic compound (VOC) content of paints, varnishes and their raw materials. This part may be used where the expected VOC content is greater than 15 % by mass. When the expected VOC content is greater than 0,1 % by mass and less than 15 % by mass, ISO 11890-2 should be employed.

This method assumes that the volatile matter is either water or organic. However, other volatile inorganic compounds can be present and might need to be quantified by another suitable method and allowed for in the calculations.