Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a chemical that is released into a pungent gas.
It is both a good preservative and makes an excellent adhesive. Therefore,
it is used widely in the building and furnishings industries.
Particleboard is the major contributor of formaldehyde to the home
environment. The culprit is the adhesive, urea formaldehyde, which can
break down, releasing the formaldehyde. Phenol formaldehyde (used in
exterior panels) does not present problems. Some particleboard is now
manufactured with reduced formaldehyde.
Other
sources of formaldehyde include secondhand smoke, interior plywood,
veneered or laminated furniture and cabinets, some professionally applied
furniture and floor finishes, paneling, permanent press fabrics (some
drapes), combustion products, and cosmetics.
Formaldehyde is a
strong irritant that often causes watery eyes, and in low doses, causes
burning sensations in the eyes, nose, and throat. Wheezing and coughing,
fatigue, skin rashes, headaches, loss of coordination, and nausea are other
symptoms. Larger doses can cause asthma attacks as well as damage to the
liver, kidneys, and central nervous system. Some people are highly
sensitive and react to formaldehyde concentrations that don't bother most
people.
To reduce your
exposure to formaldehyde, follow these tips:
-
Formaldehyde cannot penetrate plastic laminate and is at least
partly blocked by coatings.
-
Use "exterior-grade" pressed-wood products
(lower-emitting because they contain phenol resins, not urea resins).
-
High humidity and elevated temperatures cause formaldehyde release,
so you might want to control humidity through air conditioning and
dehumidifiers.
-
Increase ventilation, particularly after bringing new sources of
formaldehyde into the home.
-
When remodeling and in new construction, select low-formaldehyde
materials.
For further information on
formaldehyde and consumer products, contact:
Top of Page
|
