Formaldehyde is an organic compound with a wide range of applications. Common uses include pharmaceuticals, synthetic fibers, plastic preservatives, and reducing agents. It is also used in the preparation of phenolic, urea-formaldehyde, melamine, and polyoxymethylene resins. EU REACH regulations added item 77, formaldehyde, to Annex XVII of the List of Hazardous Substances in July 2023, and will regulate furniture, finished wood products, and other non-furniture and finished wood products in the near future. Formaldehyde's Widespread Uses and Sources: Formaldehyde is a high-volume chemical with a wide range of uses. According to the European Commission, 98% of formaldehyde produced or imported into the EU is used as a reaction intermediate in the production of formaldehyde-based resins, thermoplastics, and other chemicals. These are then used in other industrial applications, such as leather goods, textiles, adhesives, plywood, paints, electrical and electronic products, and polyurethane coatings. The release and impact of formaldehyde in products These products made from formaldehyde derivatives may contain residual formaldehyde that has not been fully reacted or substances that can be degraded into formaldehyde. As a result, during the use of the product, formaldehyde will gradually be released from the product into the surrounding environment in a concentrated diffusion manner, making formaldehyde permeate people's living environment. The potential risks of formaldehyde to human health However, formaldehyde is an organic compound that is irritating to the human eyes, nose, and skin. It has been classified as carcinogenic and irritating by the EU CLP Regulation ((EC) No 1272/2008).
