Formaldehyde price April 2024 and outlook (see chart below)
- North America:US$0.36/KG, unchanged
- Europe:US$0.29/KG, -3.3% down
- Northeast Asia:US$0.16/KG, unchanged
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Formaldehyde price index
This post is a summary of the formaldehyde price developments. The price developments of formaldehyde are expressed in US$ prices converted FX rates applicable at the time when the price was valid. Formaldehyde price index developments are calculated from multiple separate sources of data to ensure statistical accuracy.
The outlook for formaldehyde prices, on the second tab, is generated from different inputs including:
- Very recent price developments of immediate cost drivers of formaldehyde prices
- Recent price developments of underlying feedstocks which drive the price of formaldehyde
- Market futures for both cost drives and feedstocks of formaldehyde prices
- Adjustment of current supply/demand imbalances in the formaldehyde market
- Longer term trends in likely demand conditions
Further information on the Formaldehyde price chart
What is Formaldehyde
Formaldehyde is a chemical compound with the formula CH2O. It is a colorless, flammable gas with a strong, pungent smell. Formaldehyde is a simple aldehyde and is one of the most widely used chemicals in the world.
Formaldehyde is used in a variety of industrial and commercial applications, including the production of resins, plastics, textiles, and other materials. It is also used as a disinfectant and a preservative in the medical and scientific fields.
Formaldehyde can be harmful to humans if inhaled in high concentrations, as it can irritate the eyes, skin, and respiratory system. Long-term exposure to formaldehyde has been linked to an increased risk of cancer and other health problems. The use of formaldehyde has been regulated in many countries due to its potential health risks, and products that contain formaldehyde are often labeled as such.
How is Formaldehyde produced
Formaldehyde is produced through a chemical process known as the “oxidation of methanol.” Methanol, also known as methyl alcohol, is a simple alcohol that is made from the distillation of wood or from the synthesis of methane.
The oxidation of methanol involves reacting methanol with oxygen in the presence of a catalyst, such as copper or silver. This reaction produces formaldehyde and water as byproducts. The formaldehyde can then be collected and purified for use in various applications.
The oxidation of methanol is an exothermic reaction, meaning that it releases heat. The heat generated during the reaction can be used to power the production process, making it more energy efficient.
Formaldehyde can also be produced through the partial oxidation of methane or other hydrocarbons, but this process is less common and is typically used only as a secondary source of formaldehyde.
What is Formaldehyde used for
Formaldehyde is a versatile chemical compound that is used in a variety of industrial and commercial applications. Some common uses of formaldehyde include:
Production of resins
Formaldehyde is used as a raw material in the production of resins, such as urea-formaldehyde and phenol-formaldehyde. These resins are used in a wide range of products, including adhesives, particleboard, and coatings.
Production of plastics
Formaldehyde is also used as a raw material in the production of plastics, such as melamine and Bakelite. These plastics are used in a variety of products, including countertops, laminate flooring, and electrical insulators.
Production of textiles
Formaldehyde is used in the production of textiles, such as wrinkle-resistant fabrics and permanent press clothing. It is used to treat the fibers in these fabrics to give them their special properties.
Disinfectant and preservative
Formaldehyde is a powerful disinfectant and is used in hospitals, laboratories, and other settings to kill bacteria and other microorganisms. It is also used as a preservative in some vaccines, pharmaceuticals, and other medical products.
Other uses
Formaldehyde is also used in the production of plastics, paint, paper, and other products. It is also used as a fuel and as a catalyst in chemical reactions.
What types of Formaldehyde are there
There are several types of formaldehyde that are used for different applications. Some common types of formaldehyde include:
Formaldehyde gas
Formaldehyde gas is the purest form of formaldehyde and is produced through the oxidation of methanol or the partial oxidation of methane or other hydrocarbons. It is a colorless, flammable gas with a strong, pungent smell.
Formaldehyde solution
Formaldehyde solution, also known as formalin, is a water-based solution of formaldehyde gas. It is often used as a disinfectant and preservative in the medical and scientific fields. Formaldehyde solution is typically 37% formaldehyde by weight.
Paraformaldehyde
Paraformaldehyde is a solid form of formaldehyde that is produced by polymerizing formaldehyde gas. It is often used as a disinfectant and as a source of formaldehyde in the production of resins and other chemicals.
Trioxane
Trioxane is a solid form of formaldehyde that is produced by polymerizing formaldehyde gas. It is used as a fuel and as a raw material in the production of resins and other chemicals.
These are just a few examples of the different types of formaldehyde that are available. The specific type of formaldehyde used in a particular application will depend on the desired properties of the final product and the specific requirements of the application.
How big is the global Formaldehyde market
The global formaldehyde market is a large and important industry that plays a vital role in the production of a wide range of products. According to data from Mordor Intelligence, the global formaldehyde market was valued at $18.6 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach $25.6 billion by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate of 6.7%.
The demand for formaldehyde is driven by its versatility and its use in a variety of industries, including construction, automotive, and textiles. Formaldehyde is used as a raw material in the production of resins, plastics, and other materials, and it is also used as a disinfectant and preservative in the medical and scientific fields.
The global formaldehyde market includes producers of formaldehyde, as well as companies that use formaldehyde as a raw material in the production of other chemicals and products. The market is highly competitive, and companies are constantly seeking ways to improve the efficiency and performance of their products to meet the needs of their customers. The global formaldehyde market is expected to continue growing in the coming years, driven by increasing demand and the ongoing development of new applications for formaldehyde.
According to https://oec.world/ : Methanal are the world’s 3879th most traded product.
In 2020, the top exporters of Methanal were Netherlands ($26.8M), Belgium ($13M), Germany ($12.9M), Italy ($9.89M), and United States ($7.87M).
In 2020, the top importers of Methanal were Germany ($26.5M), Slovenia ($8.79M), Belgium ($7.98M), Netherlands ($7.45M), and Poland ($7.21M).
Further information
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