Description
Formaldehyde 37% Solution, also known as Methanal, is a versatile and highly effective chemical solution used widely in industrial, laboratory, and commercial applications. This aqueous solution is stabilized with methanol to ensure long-term stability and prevent polymerization.
Applications:
Construction Industry:
- Resins and Adhesives: Used in the production of urea-formaldehyde, phenol-formaldehyde, and melamine-formaldehyde resins, which are vital in manufacturing plywood, particleboard, and fiberboard.
Automotive Industry:
- Plastic Parts and Coatings: Formaldehyde-based resins are used in the production of plastic components, coatings, and insulation materials found in vehicles.
Medical Field:
- Disinfectants and Sterilant: Formaldehyde’s antimicrobial properties make it suitable for disinfecting equipment, rooms, and surfaces in medical facilities.
- Tissue Preservation: It is widely used to preserve biological specimens in pathology labs and for embalming.
Cosmetic and Personal Care:
- Preservatives: Low concentrations of formaldehyde are used in cosmetics and personal care products like shampoos, nail hardeners, and deodorants to prevent microbial growth.
Textile Industry:
- Wrinkle Resistance: Formaldehyde-based finishes are applied to fabrics to make them wrinkle-resistant and more durable, especially for clothing and upholstery materials.
Agriculture:
- Pesticides and Fertilizers: Used as a fumigant and preservative for grains and seeds. It also plays a role in the manufacture of slow-release fertilizers.
Chemical Industry:
- Precursor for Other Chemicals: It is a key ingredient in the synthesis of various chemicals such as polyols, methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI), hexamethylenetetramine, and pentaerythritol, which have applications in foam production, explosives, and plastic manufacturing.
Pharmaceuticals:
- Vaccine Production: Formaldehyde is used to inactivate viruses and bacteria in certain vaccines, making them safe for human use.
Water Treatment:
-
- Biocide: Formaldehyde is sometimes used in water treatment facilities as a biocide to prevent microbial growth in cooling systems and wastewater plants.
Storage and Handling:
- Store in a cool, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
- Use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when handling.
- Follow all safety guidelines as formaldehyde is a hazardous chemical and classified as a potential carcinogen.
Safety and Handling:
- Hazard Class: Flammable liquid (for concentrated solutions)
- Health Risks: Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen. It is toxic and irritates the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, goggles, and respiratory protection is recommended when handling.
- First Aid: In case of skin contact, wash with soap and water. In case of inhalation, move to fresh air and seek medical attention.