Formaldehyde 37%, commonly known as formalin, is a crucial chemical used in various industries due to its properties as a preservative, disinfectant, and chemical intermediate. Here are the primary industrial uses of formaldehyde 37%:
- Preservation and Fixation
- Biological Laboratories: Used extensively for the preservation of biological specimens, tissues, and organs in histology and pathology, as it effectively cross-links proteins and stabilizes cellular structures.
- Museum Specimens: Employed in the preservation of taxidermy specimens and biological collections to prevent decay and maintain structural integrity.
- Disinfectant and Antimicrobial Agent
- Medical Facilities: Utilized as a disinfectant for surfaces, equipment, and instruments in hospitals and laboratories due to its strong antimicrobial properties.
- Fumigation: Used for fumigating buildings and stored products to eliminate pests, bacteria, and fungi.
- Manufacturing and Chemical Production
- Resin Production: A key raw material in the production of urea-formaldehyde and phenol-formaldehyde resins, which are used in adhesives, coatings, and composite materials such as particleboard and plywood.
- Chemical Intermediate: Acts as a building block in the synthesis of various chemicals, including plastics, textiles, and agrochemicals.
- Textile Industry
- Fabric Finishing: Employed in the textile industry to impart wrinkle resistance and durability to fabrics through chemical treatments.
- Personal Care Products
- Preservative in Cosmetics: Used in small amounts as a preservative in some cosmetics, personal care products, and household cleaners to prevent microbial growth.
- Wood Products
- Wood Treatment: Used in the treatment of wood to enhance durability and resistance to decay, making it suitable for construction materials and furniture.
- Pharmaceuticals
- Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient: Formaldehyde is used in the synthesis of certain pharmaceuticals and as a reagent in drug development.
- Agricultural Chemicals
- Pesticide Manufacturing: Employed in the production of certain pesticides and herbicides due to its biocidal properties.
