Formaldehyde again — here’s a quick rundown:
What is it?
Formaldehyde (CH2O) is a colorless, pungent gas used as a disinfectant, preservative, and chemical building block.
Key uses:
1. *Preservation*: Embalming fluids, biological specimens.
2. *Industry*: Resins (urea-formaldehyde, phenol-formaldehyde), adhesives, textiles, particleboard.
3. *Disinfection*: Sterilizing equipment (less common now due to safety concerns).
Safety:
1. *Health risks*: Irritates eyes, skin, lungs; classified as a human carcinogen with prolonged exposure.
2. *Precautions*: Use in well-ventilated areas, wear gloves, goggles, and respirator if needed.
3. *Form*: Often sold as formalin (∼37% formaldehyde in water + methanol stabilizer).