CH₂O Data Sheet    

Formaldehyde is a colorless gas at room temperature and has a very pungent odor. It is classified as volatile organic compound (VOC) and is used as coating, resin and/or adhesive in many building materials. The main indoor sources of CH₂O are composite wood products, such as medium density fiberboard and particle board. CH₂O is also used in the manufacture of some carpet backings and urea-formaldehyde foam insulation.

When present in high concentrations CH₂O can cause symptoms like eye, nose and throat irritation, coughing and breathing difficulties. Asthma attacks, nausea, vomiting, headaches and nose bleeds can also occur.

CH₂O sampling

CH₂O diffuses through the tube at a rate dependent on Frick’s Law of diffusion. The treated filter at the bottom end of the tube maintains a near zero CH₂O concentration at the base; therefore, the quantity of CH₂O transferred through the diffusion path is related to the ambient concentration and the length of time exposed. Collected CH₂O is quantified in the laboratory using the chromotropic acid procedures.

The sampler consists of glass-fiber filter treated with sodium bisulfide, housed in a glass vial that is capped when not in use.