Formaldehyde, also known as methanal, is an organic compound with the formula CH2O. It is the simplest of the aldehydes (R−CHO) and is also known by its systematic name methanal. The common name of this substance comes from its similarity and relation to formic acid. Formaldehyde is a colorless gas with a characteristic pungent odor. It is an important precursor to many other chemical compounds, especially for polymers. In 1996, the installed capacity for the production of formaldehyde was estimated at 8.7 million tons per year.

• Industry: Formaldehyde is used in car manufacturing, explosives, plastic, resins, chemicals, and other artificial materials. It is also used in sanitary products like paper towels, napkins, and tissues. Formalin, which is formaldehyde dissolved in water, is used as a disinfectant in industries.
• Medicine: It kills many bacteria, fungi, etc., so it is used as an antiseptic. Some parasites and warts are treated by formaldehyde. It helps to produce some vaccines and also sterilizes them. It can be used in the treatment of infections like urinary tract infections.
• Building and Construction: Formaldehyde resins are used to manufacture wooden products used widely in furniture, cabinetry, moldings, flooring, shelving, countertops, and other household furnishings.
• Food and Cosmetics: It is used as a preservative in food, paints, and cosmetics.
• Other Uses: Formaldehyde is used to improve the yield of fuels in petroleum and natural gas industries. It is also used in the manufacture of ink.