Tobacco and Volatiles Branch

CDC’s Tobacco and Volatiles Branch (TVB) is unique in its capacity and expertise to conduct tobacco- related research. TVB develops methods and measures addictive and toxic substances in tobacco products, tobacco smoke and other emissions, and in blood, urine and saliva of tobacco users and persons exposed to tobacco product emissions.

By looking at all aspects of tobacco use and exposure, scientists in this branch are able to obtain an accurate understanding of how tobacco product use exposes people to harmful chemicals.

The branch conducts research, develops methods, and analyzes samples for volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as benzene and methyl tertiary butyl ether (MTBE). Scientists in this laboratory have also developed a method for measuring toxic anions such as perchlorate.