Paraformaldehyde
Paraformaldehyde (CAS: 30525-89-4, HO(CH2O)nH) is a white, granular polymer of formaldehyde. It serves as a stable, solid source of formaldehyde, making it a convenient reagent in organic synthesis. Its primary applications involve the preparation of various formaldehyde-based polymers, including phenol-, urea-, and melamine-formaldehyde resins, which are crucial in the manufacturing of coatings, wood products, textiles, and foundry resins.
- IUPAC
- Polyoxymethylene

Polymer Synthesis
Paraformaldehyde is a key monomer in the production of formaldehyde-based polymers such as phenol-formaldehyde (PF), urea-formaldehyde (UF), melamine-formaldehyde (MF), and furfuryl alcohol resins. These polymers are widely used as adhesives, binders, and in moulding compounds.
Resin Manufacturing
It is utilised in the synthesis of thermosetting resins essential for applications in coatings, laminates, and wood composite materials, providing durability and chemical resistance.
Textile Treatment
Paraformaldehyde is employed in the textile industry for cross-linking cellulose fibres, improving wrinkle resistance and dimensional stability of fabrics.
Foundry Applications
It acts as a component in binders for sand casting moulds and cores, offering good strength and thermal stability in foundry operations.
Organic Synthesis Reagent
As a convenient source of anhydrous formaldehyde, it is used in various organic reactions, including hydroxymethylation, Mannich reactions, and Prins reactions.
| Molecular weight | 30.03 (as monomer) |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | HO(CH2O)nH |
| Assay | 95% |
| Form | prilled |
| Density | 0.88 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Solubility | alcohol and cold water: slightly solubleethers, hydrocarbons and carbon tetrachloride: insoluble |
| Vapour pressure | <1.45 mmHg (25 °C) |
| Melting point | 120-170 °C(lit.) |
| Vapour density | 1.03 (vs air) |
| Autoignition temp | 572 °F |
| Storage temperature | 2-8°C |
| Application | Formaldehyde source to prepare phenol-, urea-, furfuryl alcohol-, resorcinol- and melamine-formaldehyde polymers for use in coatings, wood products, textiles and foundry resins. |




Hazard statements
- H228Flammable solid
- H302Harmful if swallowed
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H317May cause an allergic skin reaction
- H318Causes serious eye damage
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
- H351Suspected of causing cancer
Precautionary statements
- P210Keep away from heat, sparks and open flames. No smoking
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P280Wear protective gloves, clothing and eye/face protection
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | Eyeshields, Faceshields, full-face particle respirator type N100 (US), Gloves, respirator cartridge type N100 (US), type P1 (EN143) respirator filter, type P3 (EN 143) respirator cartridges |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 70 °C / 158 °F |
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 2213 4.1 / PGIII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 2 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | F,Xn |
| Risk statements (R) | 11-20/22-37/38-40-41-43 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-36/37/39-45 |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Expl Lim | 73 % |
|---|---|
| Transition Temp | sublimation point 150 °C |
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Paraformaldehyde used for?
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Paraformaldehyde is used as a formaldehyde source in the synthesis of phenol-, urea-, and melamine-formaldehyde polymers for applications in coatings, wood products, textiles, and foundry resins. It also serves as a reagent in organic synthesis.
What are the CAS number and formula for Paraformaldehyde?
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The CAS number for Paraformaldehyde is 30525-89-4, and its linear formula is HO(CH2O)nH.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Paraformaldehyde with an assay of 95%. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade.
How should Paraformaldehyde be handled and stored?
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Paraformaldehyde is a flammable solid and can cause severe eye irritation or damage, and skin irritation. It may also cause respiratory irritation and is suspected of causing cancer. Handle in a well-ventilated area, wear appropriate personal protective equipment including gloves, eye protection, and respiratory protection. Store in a cool, dry place at 2-8°C, away from ignition sources.
Is Paraformaldehyde a controlled substance?
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The provided data does not indicate that Paraformaldehyde is a controlled substance.
How is Paraformaldehyde packed, shipped, and exported?
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Paraformaldehyde is typically supplied in prilled form. Tech Serve Solutions, as a global supplier, can arrange for its packing, shipping, and export according to relevant regulations.
How can I request a sample or quote for Paraformaldehyde?
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To request a sample or a quote for Paraformaldehyde, please contact our sales team through the website or by calling us directly.
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