When produced in the atmosphere by the action of sunlight and oxygen on atmospheric methane and other hydrocarbons, it becomes part of smog. Formaldehyde has also been detected in outer space.

Jul 7, 2025 · Formaldehyde is a chemical used widely by industry to manufacture building materials and numerous household products. It is also a by-product of combustion and certain other natural …

Oct 14, 2025 · Formaldehyde is toxic to humans, causing respiratory side effects and increasing the risk of certain cancers. Learn when exposure may be dangerous.

A fact sheet that discusses formaldehyde and its possible association with cancer. Includes resources for more information.

Breathing very high levels of formaldehyde for hours or days can cause different health impacts than breathing high levels of formaldehyde for years. While you can’t control all the sources of …

Formaldehyde is a gaseous pollutant produced by both human activity and natural sources. Combustion processes account directly or indirectly for most of the formaldehyde entering the environment.

Mar 6, 2026 · formaldehyde (HCHO), an organic compound, the simplest of the aldehydes, used in large amounts in a variety of chemical manufacturing processes. It is produced principally by the vapour …