Paraformaldehyde

The chemical makeup of paraformaldehyde would include the elements which are hydrogen, oxygen, and carbon. Paraformaldehyde is considered the smallest polyoxymethylene. The chemical formula for paraformaldehyde is CH3CH2CO(CH2)3CH3. A second formula found was (OH(CH2O)nH (n = 8 - 100). Synonyms for paraformaldehyde include the following: Polyformaldehyde; Polyoxymethylene; Formaldehyde polymer; Polyoxymethylene glycol; Trioxymethylene.

Health risk associated with Paraformaldehyde include the targeting of the organs (eyes, skin, and the respiratory system). Paraformaldehyde is considered a carcinogen. Paraformaldehyde has a fire hazard rating of two and a health hazard rating of one. It can cause irritation in the respiratory tract causing pain, burns, and inflammation. It may also have the effect to cause loss of smell. If you are around this chemical for continued periods of time it may cause pulmonary edema. may cause conjunctivitis. Repeated inhalation may cause chronic bronchitis. Repeated exposure may cause sensitization dermatitis.

Paraformaldehyde is used in the embalming process for the preparation of human remains. It is used for the makeup of pure formaldehyde. It is used as a fumigant, disinfectant, and fungicide. It is a solid form of formaldehyde and is used in embalming espically for autopsy cases.

Paraformaldehyde is used in many other ways besides the embalming process. It is used in oil well drilling chemicals. Other uses for paraformaldehyde include photographic and graphic arts chemicals, pigments, rubber antioxidents, flourescent tube and ink chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and slow release fertilizers.