
Technical Data Sheet · Version 1.0 · Issued 02 July 2026
Technical Data Sheet
Formalin
Product Description
Chemical Composition
| Component | CAS Number | % w/w |
|---|---|---|
| Formaldehyde | 50-00-0 | 37% |
| Methanol (stabilizer) | 67-56-1 | Approx. 10-15% |
| Water | 7732-18-5 | Balance |
Physical & Chemical Properties
| ph | 2.8 - 4.0 |
| odour | Pungent, characteristic formaldehyde odor |
| colour | Colorless |
| viscosity | Low, similar to water |
| appearance | Clear liquid |
| solubility | Completely soluble in water |
| flash point | 60 °C (closed cup, typical for formalin) |
| boiling point | 96 - 100 °C (approximate) |
| specific gravity | 1.08 g/cm³ |
Performance Data & Dosage
| contact time | Varies with application; consult technical support |
| compatibility | Water, Most textile fabric materials, Laboratory glassware, Steel drums (lined) |
| dilution ratio | Application dependent; typically diluted for laboratory and textile use |
| incompatibility | Strong oxidizers, Strong acids, Strong bases, Amines and other reactive chemicals |
| recommended dosage | Consult product label / supplier for specific industry application |
| treatment temperature | Ambient to elevated depending on process |
Applications & Industries
Applications
- Specimen preservation
- Disinfection and sterilization
- Textile finishing
- Water treatment
- Chemical manufacturing
Industries Served
Health & Safety (GHS)
Signal Word: Danger
Hazard Class: Acute Toxicity (Oral) Category 3, Skin Corrosion/Irritation Category 1B, Serious Eye Damage/Eye Irritation Category 1, Carcinogenicity Category 1B, Specific Target Organ Toxicity - Single Exposure Category 3
Hazard Statements:
- H301: Toxic if swallowed
- H314: Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
- H335: May cause respiratory irritation
- H350: May cause cancer
PPE Required:
first aid skin
Remove contaminated clothing and wash skin thoroughly with soap and water. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.
first aid eyes
Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing. Seek immediate medical attention.
first aid ingestion
Do NOT induce vomiting. Rinse mouth and seek immediate medical attention.
Storage & Handling
| disposal | Dispose of in accordance with local regulations; avoid release to the environment. Consult local waste authority. |
| shelf life | Consult product label; typically 12 months if stored properly |
| container material | Plastic containers (HDPE) for small volumes; lined steel drums for bulk storage |
| storage conditions | Store in tightly sealed, corrosion-resistant containers in a cool, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and sources of ignition. |
| storage temperature | 15 - 25 °C (cool environment) |
Packaging & Transport
| un number | UN1198 |
| packing group | II |
| transport class | 8 (Corrosive substances) |
Standards & Compliance
| Standard | Scope |
|---|---|
| KEBS KS EAS 161:2016 | Formaldehyde solutions — Specification |
| ISO 9001:2015 | Quality management systems - Requirements |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Formalin supplied by Zenco Systems Ltd of consistent quality?
Yes, Zenco Systems Ltd ensures all Formalin meets strict quality standards.
What packaging sizes are available for Formalin?
Formalin is available in 5L, 10L, 20L, and 200L containers.
Can Zenco Systems Ltd deliver Formalin to Uganda and Tanzania?
Yes, we supply Formalin across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, and neighboring countries.
What safety measures are required when handling Formalin?
Use gloves, eye protection, and handle in ventilated areas to avoid exposure.
Are bulk order discounts available for Formalin?
Yes, we offer tiered pricing for orders exceeding 500kg or equivalent volume.
Want a downloadable copy of this datasheet?
Contact our technical team and we will send you the full official PDF directly to your inbox.
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