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what are the uses of formaldehyde resins?
Melamine formaldehyde (MF) resins are used predominantly as paper impregnating resins for surfacing of panels, for example in laminate flooring and as binders and adhesives where improved water resistance is required. The automobile industry also consumes MF resins in the form of clear coats.The next largest outlet for formaldehyde is phenolic formaldehyde (PF) resins. Being water resistant, they are used as durable binders and adhesive in structural wood panels and as binders in mineral wool insulation. Their high thermal stability and fire resistant properties are utilised in a wide spectrum of uses in the automotive and construction industries including brake linings, foundry binders, insulation foams and composites. There is also a growing use in the oil industry to enhance oil well productivity.

Methyl di-p-phenylene isocyanate (MDI) is the fastest growing of the formaldehyde derivative markets. Primary uses are for polyurethane foam, binders, polyurethane elastomers, adhesives and sealants. Markets include construction, household appliances, footwear and other consumer goods, and automotive.

Butanediol (BDO) can be manufactured using formaldehyde. Most BDO is used to produce intermediates for downstream production of polyester thermoplastics resins used in the textile fibres, electrical/electronic and automotive markets.

Pentarythritol is produced by the alkaline condensation of formaldehyde with acetaldehyde. Primary uses are for alkyd resins, lubricants, tall oil esters.


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