Formaldehyde is a colorless, strong-smelling gas used in making building materials and many household products. It is used in pressed-wood products, such as particleboard, plywood, and fiberboard; glues and adhesives; permanent-press fabrics; paper product coatings; and certain insulation materials. It is also used to make other chemicals. When dissolved in water, formaldehyde is called formalin, which is commonly used as an industrial disinfectant, and as a preservative in funeral homes and medical labs. It can also be used as a preservative in some foods and in products, such as antiseptics, medicines, and cosmetics.
Molecular Formula | CH2O |
Other names | Formalin, methanal |
Physical state | Liquid |
Color | Colorless |
Solubility in water | Soluble |
Molar mass | 30.026 g/mol |
Density | 1.09 g/cm3 |
Boiling Point | -2.20F/-190C |
Melting Point | -133.60F/-920C |