Formalin
Formalin, also known as formaldehyde solution or formalin solution, is a colorless, strong-smelling liquid that contains formaldehyde dissolved in water. Here’s a description of formalin:
Physical Properties:
- Color: Formalin is usually colorless, although it may appear slightly yellowish due to impurities.
- Odor: It has a pungent, characteristic odor that is often described as suffocating or irritating. The odor is detectable even at low concentrations.
- Density: The density of formalin is slightly higher than that of water.
- Solubility: Formalin is highly soluble in water, forming a clear solution.
Uses:
- Disinfectant: Formalin is a powerful disinfectant and preservative due to its ability to kill microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, and fungi. It is commonly used in healthcare settings, laboratories, and the preservation of biological specimens.
- Tanning Agent: In the leather industry, formalin is used as a tanning agent to stabilize collagen fibers and prevent decay in animal hides.
- Textile Industry: Formalin is used in the textile industry as a finisher for fabrics, providing wrinkle resistance and crease recovery properties.
- Wood Preservation: It is employed in the treatment of wood products to prevent decay and insect infestation.
- Resin Production: Formalin serves as a key raw material in the production of various resins, including urea-formaldehyde resins, phenol-formaldehyde resins (phenolic resins), and melamine-formaldehyde resins.
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