formaldehyde*
methanal
formalin
|
11-12
1
2
-
-
5
-
-
|
8
DHS
CW
Hazardous Chemical
|
III
|
1198
2209
50-00-0
|
Highly toxic by all routes of exposure; probably carcinogenic; toxic fumes evolved from formalin (40% solution of formaldehyde in water). Use in a fume cupboard if practicable, otherwise use small quantities in a well-ventilated area. Use eye and skin protection when splashes are possible. Typically, student use should be limited to 2 mL per activity. Contains 10 -15% ethanol to prevent polymerisation. Do not mix hydrochloric acid with formaldehyde solution since the highly carcinogenic bis(chloromethyl)ether is formed. Take care that formaldehyde solution and hydrochloric acid are not disposed of in the same sink system. (Hydrochloric should be neutralised to pH 7-10 before discharge to sinks). Use sulfuric acid rather than hydrochloric acid as a catalyst for the preparation of urea-formaldehyde polymer. Concentrated solutions of formaldehyde slowly form a white precipitate of paraformaldehyde. Biological specimens, which have been preserved in formaldehyde, should be kept in sealed containers. A 50% solution of ethanol/water can also be used to preserve biological specimens.
3
See also ALDEHYDES,
and Appendix F, and Section 3.2.3.2 (d) for labelling advice.
|
