Freezing Point Depression Frequency Fuel Fuel Cell Fuel Cells Fulminates Functional Group Furfural Fusion Formaldehyde , compound of carbon , hydrogen , and oxygen , with the formula HCHO or CH 2 O. Formaldehyde was discovered in 1867 by the German chemist August Wilhelm von Hofmann . It is the simplest of the aldehydes. At ordinary temperature it is a gas with a very pungent odor. Formaldehyde is prepared industrially by heating dry air and methyl alcohol vapor in the presence of a catalyst , such as copper or silver . More direct processes, whereby formaldehyde is synthesized from carbon monoxide and hydrogen, have been developed.
Pure formaldehyde is very reactive and polymer izes easily.
Formaldehyde is used extensively in the chemical industry in the synthesis of organic compounds. Its most important use is in the manufacture of synthetic resins . Recent tests have indicated that it is a carcinogen . All Rights Reserved Worldwide.