Formaldehyde is formed by the dehydrogenation of methanol. The heat required for the endothermic reaction is obtained by burning hydrogen contained in the off-gas produced from the dehydrogenation reaction. The other route involves the oxidation of methanol over a catalyst of molybdenum and iron oxide.
How is formaldehyde made?
Formaldehyde is produced industrially by the catalytic oxidation of methanol. ... 250–400 °C in presence of iron oxide in combination with molybdenum and/or vanadium to produce formaldehyde according to the chemical equation: 2 CH3OH + O2 → 2 CH2O + 2 H2O.
Where does formaldehyde come from?
Formaldehyde is also a byproduct of combustion. When burning natural gas, kerosene, gasoline, wood, or tobacco, formaldehyde is produced. Automobile exhaust is a common source of formaldehyde in our environment. Tobacco smoking in the home is another source of the chemical in the indoor environment.
