FORMALDEHYDE

Physical Properties

The Physical Properties of Formaldehyde

* The chemical formula for formaldehyde is CH2O and the molecular weight is 30.03 g/mol. (1)
* The vapor pressure for formaldehyde is 10 mm Hg at -88 EC, and its log octanol/water partition coefficient (Log Kow) is -0.65. (1)
* Formaldehyde is a colorless gas with a pungent, suffocating odor at room temperature; the odor threshold for formaldehyde is 0.83 ppm. (1,8)
* Formaldehyde is readily soluble in water at room temperature. (1)
* Commercial formaldehyde is produced and sold as an aqueous solution containing 37 to 50 percent formaldehyde by weight. (1)

Physical Data
· Vapor Pressure: 52mm @ 37° C
· Specific Gravity: 1.083
· Vapor Density: 1.03
· Appearance: colorless liquid

Hazardous Decomposition
· Carbon Monoxide
· Carbon Dioxide

Fire Hazard Data

· Flash point: 310° F (154°C)
· Autoignition Temp: 932° F (499° C)
· Extinguishers: Water spray, Carbon dioxide, dry chemical powder or appropriate foam.
· Special Procedures: Wear self-contained breathing apparatus and protective clothing to prevent contact with skin and eyes, wear rubber gloves.
· Unusual Fire hazards: Emits toxic fumes under fire conditions

Disposal
Spill Procedures:

· Evacuate area.
· Wear self-contained breathing apparatus, rubber boots and heavy rubber gloves.
· Cover with lime or soda ash and place in closed containers for disposal.
· Ventilate area and wash spill site after material pickup is complete.
· Combustible Liquid
Disposal:

· Dissolve or mix the material with a combustible solvent and burn in a chemical incinerator equipped with an afterburner and scrubber.
· Observe all federal, state, and local environmental regulations



Chemical Structure

Formaldehyde - H2C=O

PRIVATE
PRIVATE
H3 C1= O2/ H4
Atomic Charges and Dipole Moment

C1 charge= 0.358O2 charge=-0.398H3 charge= 0.020H4 charge= 0.020with a dipole moment of 2.46866 Debye

Bond Lengths:

between C1 and O2: distance=1.