FORMALDEHYDE 37%

Formaldehyde 37% is a solution of formaldehyde in water, typically stabilized with methanol. It is a colorless, pungent-smelling gas that is dissolved in water to form a concentrated aqueous solution that is widely used as a disinfectant, preservative, and fixative in various industries. In its 37% concentration, formaldehyde is commonly used for preserving biological specimens, as a disinfectant in medical and industrial settings, and as a key ingredient in the production of resins and plastics. Despite its many beneficial applications, formaldehyde requires proper handling due to its potential health hazards.

Applications of Formaldehyde 37%

1. Tissue Fixation in Medical and Biological Research:
   • Histology and Microscopy: Formaldehyde 37% is widely used in histology and biological research for fixing tissues. It preserves the structure and composition of biological specimens, making it an essential reagent for preparing tissue samples for microscopic examination.
   • Embalming: Formaldehyde is a key ingredient in embalming fluid, used to preserve human and animal remains. It prevents decomposition by killing bacteria and fungi and maintaining tissue integrity for post-mortem examinations.
2. Disinfectant in Medical and Industrial Settings:
   • Hospital Disinfection: Formaldehyde 37% is used as a disinfectant in hospitals, laboratories, and healthcare facilities. It is effective against a wide range of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Formaldehyde fumigation is often used to sterilize medical equipment and rooms that require decontamination.
   • Industrial Use: Formaldehyde 37% is used as a powerful disinfectant in industrial settings, particularly in food processing plants, water treatment, and other sanitation applications where microbial control is essential.
3. Preservation of Biological Samples:
   • Collection and Transport: Formaldehyde is commonly used to preserve biological samples collected for research, testing, or transport. Its preservative properties help maintain the integrity of biological specimens for extended periods.
   • Pathological Examination: For pathology labs, formaldehyde is essential for preserving organ tissues and biopsies, which are then examined for disease diagnosis, such as cancer detection.
4. Production of Resins and Plastics:
   • Formaldehyde 37% is a vital raw material in the manufacture of resins, such as urea-formaldehyde and phenol-formaldehyde resins. These resins are used in the production of molded plastics, adhesives, and coatings.
   • The compound is also involved in the production of plywood, particleboard, and other composite wood products, where it is used to create durable bonding agents.
5. Chemical Synthesis and Industrial Manufacturing:
   • Formaldehyde 37% is used in various chemical reactions and industrial applications. It plays a role in producing chemical intermediates used in the manufacture of agricultural products, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics.
   • It is also used in the production of dyes, textiles, and leather goods, where its chemical properties are leveraged to stabilize materials or contribute to color fastness.
6. Environmental and Water Treatment:
   • In environmental applications, formaldehyde is used for water disinfection, particularly in wastewater treatment plants. Its ability to kill microorganisms makes it an effective option for reducing microbial contamination in treated water.
   • It can also be used to preserve samples in water testing to prevent microbial growth during transport and analysis.
7. Wood and Paper Industry:
   • Wood Preservation: Formaldehyde-based solutions are used for treating wood to enhance its durability and prevent decay. It is especially effective in treating plywood, particleboard, and other composite wood products.
   • Paper Manufacturing: Formaldehyde is used in the paper industry as a binding agent and in the production of paperboard.
8. Safety and Hazardous Material Handling:
   • Due to its toxicity and carcinogenic properties, formaldehyde 37% must be handled with caution. It is typically used in well-ventilated areas with appropriate protective gear, such as gloves, goggles, and respirators.
   • In industrial and laboratory environments, proper safety protocols are necessary, including the use of fume hoods and the safe disposal of waste materials.