Paraformaldehyde is a white, free-flowing prilled or powder solid that serves as a convenient, high-concentration source of anhydrous formaldehyde. It depolymerizes rapidly in water or polar solvents to release formaldehyde gas or aqueous solutions (formalin).
Paraformaldehyde is the preferred formaldehyde source in resin production, agrochemical synthesis, disinfectant formulations, and oilfield chemicals due to its stability, low water content, and ease of handling.
Technical Specifications
| ITEMS | SPECIFICATIONS | |
| Appearance | white crystalline powder | white crystalline powder |
| Formaldehyde Content | 91.0-93.0% | 95.0-97.0% |
| Acidity (Formic Acid) | ≤0.03% | ≤0.03% |
| Methanol Content | ≤1% | ≤1% |
| pH | 3-7 | 3-7 |
| Iron Content | ≤0.0002% | ≤0.0002% |
| Ash | ≤0.1% | ≤0.05% |
Packaging and Storage
- Net weight 25kg bag, 20 tons in one 20ft container with pallets
- Tightly closed, keep away from heat and sources of ignition.
Main Advantages of Paraformaldehyde
- High formaldehyde concentration (up to 97%) vs liquid formalin is only ~37%
- Low water content enables faster resin cycles and higher reactor yields
- Long shelf life when stored properly
- Available in low-methanol and ultra-low ash grades for sensitive applications
Primary Applications of Paraformaldehyde
- Urea-formaldehyde (UF), phenol-formaldehyde (PF), melamine-formaldehyde (MF) resins
- Polyacetal (POM) resin production
- Synthesis of methylene diisocyanate (MDI), pentaerythritol, and trimethylolpropane
- Oil & gas field chemicals (fracturing fluids, drilling muds)
- Disinfectants, fumigants, and biocides
- Textile finishing agents and leather tanning
- Pharmaceutical intermediates (vitamins, antibiotics)
- Slow-release fertilizer coatings
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does paraformaldehyde release formaldehyde gas during storage?
Very minimal. Properly stored 91%–96% grades release <0.1% formaldehyde over 12 months.
Can paraformaldehyde be used directly in food-contact applications?
No. Paraformaldehyde itself is not FDA or EU 10/2011 approved for direct food contact, but resins made from it can comply if residual formaldehyde levels meet limits.
What is the difference between 91%, 93%, and 96% grades?
Higher formaldehyde content means less water and faster reaction times in resin synthesis. 96% grade is preferred for high-performance UF/MF resins and polyacetal production.
Is paraformaldehyde considered hazardous?
Yes – it is a flammable solid and can release toxic formaldehyde gas when heated or in fire. Always use proper PPE and ventilation.
Where can I buy high-quality Paraformaldehyde?
You can contact us via email [email protected] for offers and bulk orders.