Formaaldehüüd

Formaaldehüüd, commonly known as formaldehyde in Estonian contexts, is the simplest aldehyde, with the chemical formula CH2O. It is a colorless gas with a pungent, distinctive odor and is highly soluble in water, forming formalin when dissolved.

In industry, formaldehyde is primarily produced by the catalytic oxidation of methanol in air, yielding formaldehyde and water. It is also generated as a byproduct in various combustion processes. Formaldehyde is widely used in the production of resins and plastics, including urea-formaldehyde, phenol-formaldehyde, and melamine-formaldehyde resins, which serve in plywood, coatings, adhesives, and insulation. It is also used as a disinfectant and preservative; historically it has been used to preserve biological specimens and as an embalming fluid.

Health and safety: Formaldehyde is an irritant to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. Prolonged or high-level exposure has been linked to cancer, and formaldehyde is classified as a human carcinogen by major health authorities. Exposure is regulated in workplaces, and safety measures include adequate ventilation, closed handling systems, and personal protective equipment.

Environmental aspects: In the atmosphere, formaldehyde reacts with hydroxyl radicals and other species, contributing to indoor air pollution if released from products. It is soluble in water and can enter water systems, though it degrades over time.

History: Formaldehyde was first prepared in 1859 by the Russian chemist Aleksandr Butlerov. Its discovery led to the development of a large field of formaldehyde-based chemistry and resin production.