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Send EmailParaformaldehyde, Polyoxymethylene, Polyoxymethylene (POM), Formaldehyde Polymer, Trioxane, Paraform, PFA, %91,%96, 30525-89-4
Chemical Identity
Name: Paraformaldehyde
Synonyms: Formaldehyde polymer, Polyoxymethylene precursor, Paraform, Trioxane (historical)
CAS Number: 30525-89-4
Formula: (CH2O)n
Appearance: White crystalline solid or granules, with a sharp formaldehyde odor
Physical Properties
Melting/Softening Range: 120–170 °C (depending on polymerization degree)
Solubility: Insoluble in water; hydrolyzes to release formaldehyde solution
Odor: Strong, characteristic formaldehyde smell
Stability: Stable in dry conditions; depolymerizes upon heating or in moist environments
Chemical Properties
Reactivity: Highly reactive aldehyde polymer; source of formaldehyde in controlled release
Molecular Weight: Variable, depending on chain length (typically 8–100 monomer units)
Flammability: Classified as a flammable solid (UN 2213, Class 4.1); combustion releases toxic gases (formaldehyde, CO, CO₂)
Applications
Laboratory & Biotechnology
Used for tissue and cell fixation in immunohistochemistry and microscopy
Provides controlled release of formaldehyde for stable fixation solutions
Resin & Adhesive Manufacturing
Raw material for phenol-formaldehyde, urea-formaldehyde, and melamine-formaldehyde resins
Acts as a hardener in plywood, MDF, and laminate adhesives (PRF systems)
Agriculture & Livestock
Disinfectant for barns and poultry houses
Soil sterilization and fungal control (fumigant applications)
Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics
Antimicrobial additive in formulations requiring slow formaldehyde release
Limited use due to regulatory restrictions on formaldehyde-releasing agents
Polymers & Plastics
Intermediate for polyoxymethylene (POM) production, a high-strength engineering plastic
Used in precision plastic components with high stiffness and durability
Paper & Textile Industry
Improves paper strength and dimensional stability
Applied in textile finishing (wrinkle resistance, surface treatments)
Safety & Handling
Hazards: Irritant to eyes, skin, and respiratory tract; potential sensitizer and carcinogen (due to formaldehyde release)
Protective Equipment: Gloves, goggles, respirator, lab coat required
Storage: Cool, dry, well-ventilated area; avoid moisture and ignition sources
Transport: UN 2213, Class 4.1 (Flammable solid) – ADR/IMDG compliant packaging required
| Sector | Main Applications | Suitability Notes | Risks / Compliance Points |
|---|---|---|---|
| Laboratory & Biotechnology | Tissue & cell fixation (IHC, ICC, microscopy) | High-purity, low free formaldehyde, methanol-free solutions preferred | Formaldehyde vapor irritant; fresh solution preparation required |
| Resin & Adhesive Manufacturing | PF, UF, MF resins; PRF adhesives | Granules/prills with low moisture; controlled depolymerization | Dust explosion risk; reaction rate control essential |
| Agriculture & Livestock | Barn/poultry disinfection; soil sterilization; fumigant | Broad-spectrum microbial control; must follow local regulations | Residue/ventilation periods critical; worker safety measures |
| Pharmaceuticals & Cosmetics | Antimicrobial additive; slow-release formaldehyde | Restricted use; only allowed in regulated formulations | Labeling obligations; consumer safety and regulatory compliance |
| Polymers & Plastics | Intermediate for polyoxymethylene (POM) | Industrial-grade; high assay, controlled release | High-temp depolymerization releases formaldehyde; process safety |
| Paper & Textile | Finishing, wrinkle resistance, paper strength | Controlled formaldehyde release for surface treatments | Emission limits and worker exposure monitoring required |
| General Chemical Industry | Intermediate for synthesis of chemicals, agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals | Versatile raw material; COA/TDS verification required | Classified as UN 2213, Class 4.1 (flammable solid); ADR/IMDG transport rules |
UN Classification: UN 2213, Class 4.1 (Flammable solid)
Documentation: SDS, TDS, COA must be provided for each batch
Storage: Cool, dry, ventilated; moisture barrier packaging (PE-lined bags, big-bags)
PPE: Gloves, goggles, respirator; strict ventilation in handling areas
Regulations: Formaldehyde release subject to REACH/CLP (EU), OSHA (US), and local Turkish regulations