off-gas

1 of 2

noun

ˈȯf-ˌgas 

plural off-gases also off-gasses

: a gas that is produced as a by-product of an industrial process or that is given off by a manufactured object or material

Refinery off-gases from fluid catalytic cracking could be a source of ethylene.

—Predicasts Technology Update

off-gas

2 of 2

verb

off-gassed; off-gassing

transitive + intransitive

: to give off a typically harmful gas

In addition, OSHA intends to amend the hazard communication provisions of the standard to require hazard warning labels for solid materials capable of off-gassing formaldehyde at levels between 0.1 ppm and 0.5 ppm …

—Chemical & Engineering News

… there have been environmental concerns about the phenol formaldehyde binders used in most engineered-wood products, which can off-gas.

—Max Alexander

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1955, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1974, in the meaning defined above