The chemical industry allows the creation of all kinds of products for daily life. However, often certain chemical substances have harmful potential. In this sense, formaldehyde is a transparent gas with many industrial uses, but it is not without risks to people’s health. Formaldehyde
Main chemical properties
Metanal formaldehyde is a chemical compound, more specifically, a simple aldehyde. It is a volatile and highly flammable substance.
Its chemical formula is CH2O and can be obtained by oxidizing methanol in the presence of metallic catalysts and metallic oxides, such as copper, silver and molybdenum.
Under normal conditions of temperature and pressure it is a colorless gas, with a penetrating odor and very soluble in water.
A product used in all types of sectors
This product was formerly used as a disinfectant and is currently used in the conservation of biological samples.
In addition, this organic compound is widely used in various sectors, as it is used in the manufacture of medicines, to manufacture MDF type wood sheets, in the elaboration of fabrics, cosmetics and in the manufacture of plastics. Formaldehyde also appears in cigarette smoke.
Keratin products used in hairdressing salons also contain this substance. This toxic is very present in most homes, whether in furniture or some fabrics.
Formaldehyde is a toxic compound that has been shown to have carcinogenic properties in several animal experiments
This substance is naturally present in the environment , but in very low concentrations. In this sense, it helps certain metabolic reactions of animals and plants.
Its production in a natural way does not cause any harmful effects on living organisms , but exposure to large quantities obtained chemically causes health effects.
This product can enter the human body through two routes: through the respiratory tract or through contact with the skin.
In humans, contact with this substance can cause irritation to the nose and eyes, including allergic reactions.
When ingested it can cause serious reactions: loss of consciousness , seizures and even death. Long-term exposure can cause asthma-like reactions.
Children are exposed to formaldehyde when they sleep in wooden cribs made with this substance or through skin contact with some fabrics.
