Formalin is a solution of 35 to 40 per cent of formaldehyde (a colorless pungent, irritating gas) in water. Because formaldehyde tends to polymerize, 10% to 15% of methanol is added to the aqueous solution of formaldehyde as a stabilising agent to impede polymerization. Nonetheless, solutions of formaldehyde may be methanol-free but contain other stabilizers such as n-butanol, ethanol, or urea. It is thus important that caregivers be aware of of possibility of methanol co-intoxication after ingestion of formalin. Being a strong disinfectant and tissue hardener, formalin is used for preserving bodies as . . .
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