formaldehydeemission

Formaldehyde emission refers to the release of formaldehyde gas from materials, products, or processes that contain formaldehyde or release it through adhesives and resins. It is a common indoor air pollutant and is classified as a volatile organic compound (VOC). Major sources include pressed wood products such as particleboard, plywood, and medium-density fiberboard, which use urea-formaldehyde or other resins; furniture, textiles, insulation, paints, and some building materials; and combustion sources such as tobacco smoke or fireplaces.

Formaldehyde is released more rapidly when products are new and as temperatures rise, with emission rates typically decreasing over time. Emissions are influenced by temperature, humidity, and ventilation; inadequate air exchange can lead to elevated indoor concentrations. Indoor formaldehyde is usually measured as an emission rate from a material or as ambient concentration in the air, reported in micrograms or milligrams per square meter per hour (mg/m2/h) or parts per billion (ppb).

Health and regulatory context: Formaldehyde can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat and may exacerbate asthma or other respiratory conditions. Prolonged or high-level exposure has been linked to more serious health risks, including cancer in humans. Many jurisdictions regulate formaldehyde emissions from composite wood products and other consumer materials, with standards and labeling programs such as CARB Phase 2 in the United States and various European and national limits on indoor emissions.

Mitigation and control: Exposure can be reduced by choosing low-emitting or formaldehyde-free materials, ensuring proper curing of resins, increasing ventilation, and using air cleaners with activated carbon. Humidity and temperature control can also influence emission levels.