Formaldehyde is a colorless, water-soluble gas that consists of one carbon atom bonded to two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. Because it is one of the most widely used commercial chemicals, CH2O is often considered separately from other Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs). CH2O is used in the manufacture of resins and a wide variety of chemicals, as a binder for building materials and as a preservative. The majority of CH2O emissions are from the production of CH2O itself and from the chemical manufacturing processes for which CH2O is a feedstock. CH2O is also emitted as a byproduct from refineries and combustion processes. It is a known carcinogen that causes irritation of the skin, eyes, nose, and throat.
One way to eliminate CH2O is to oxidize it to carbon dioxide and water over an oxidation catalyst. Johnson Matthey has several advanced oxidation catalyst products such as our mixed oxide catalysts, available as pellets or honeycombs, and our precious metal-based Oxidation Catalysts which are used to treat CH2O emissions from stationary gas engines.