Formaldehyde was first synthesized in the 19th century by Russian chemist Alexander Butlerov in 1859. However, its existence was known much earlier, with its distinctive odor observed during the distillation of wood. The compound was originally named ""formalin"" due to its relationship to formic acid, but was later renamed formaldehyde.
Formaldehyde is a key intermediate in the production of a variety of chemicals, including resins, plastics, and pharmaceuticals. It is used to synthesize urea-formaldehyde resins, phenol-formaldehyde resins (e.g., phenolic plastics), and melamine-formaldehyde resins, which are used in adhesives, coatings, and building materials.Formaldehyde-based resins are often used in textile finishing processes to give fabrics wrinkle resistance, crease resistance, and color fastness. Formaldehyde-based crosslinkers help stabilize dyes and increase the durability of textiles.Formaldehyde is a powerful fungicide and is widely used as a disinfectant and preservative in laboratories, medical institutions, and preservation processes. Formaldehyde solutions, such as formalin, are effective in killing microorganisms and inhibiting the decomposition of biological specimens.Formaldehyde-based resins are widely used in the production of engineered wood products, such as particleboard, plywood, and fiberboard. These resins provide structural stability and moisture resistance to wood composites, making them suitable for a variety of construction and furniture applications.Formaldehyde releasers, such as formaldehyde dimethylhydrazone and quaternium-15, are used as preservatives in cosmetics, personal care products, and household cleaners. These compounds help prevent microbial growth and extend the shelf life of consumer products.Formaldehyde plays a role in environmental remediation processes, such as air purification and wastewater treatment. It is used as a disinfectant in water treatment plants and as a precursor in the production of activated carbon, which helps remove pollutants from air and water sources.Despite its widespread use, formaldehyde has raised concerns about its potential health effects. Prolonged exposure to formaldehyde vapors can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat and can cause breathing problems and allergic reactions.
References
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DOI: 10.1007/978-1-4020-8439-3_3
2016. Verruca Vulgaris. Dermatopathology.
DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-30006-1_480
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