formaldehüüdil

Formaldehüüdil, also known as methanal, is the simplest aldehyde. Its chemical formula is CH2O. It is a colorless, pungent-smelling gas at room temperature. Formaldehüüdil is highly reactive and soluble in water, alcohol, and ether.

Industrially, formaldehüüdil is produced primarily by the catalytic oxidation of methanol. It is a key building block in the synthesis of many other chemicals. A significant portion of produced formaldehüüdil is used to create resins, such as urea-formaldehyde, phenol-formaldehyde, and melamine-formaldehyde. These resins are widely employed as adhesives and binders in the production of plywood, particleboard, and other wood products, as well as in the manufacturing of plastics, textiles, and insulation.

Formaldehüüdil also finds applications as a disinfectant and preservative due to its antimicrobial properties. It is used in some medical applications for tissue fixation and sterilization, although its use is limited due to its toxicity. In agriculture, it can be used as a soil fumigant.

Exposure to formaldehüüdil can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat. It is classified as a human carcinogen by several health organizations, primarily linked to nasopharyngeal cancer and leukemia. Due to these health concerns, regulations are in place in many countries to limit occupational and environmental exposure to formaldehüüdil.