Last Updated on July 25, 2023
Are you considering installing engineered wood in your home or office? If so, it’s important to know about the potential presence of formaldehyde. This chemical is commonly used in engineered wood manufacturing and can have negative health effects if it’s present at high levels.
Formaldehyde is a colorless, strong-smelling gas that can cause irritation to the eyes, nose, throat, and respiratory system. It’s used in engineered wood manufacturing to bind the wood fibers and create a stronger, more durable product.
However, if the formaldehyde is not properly controlled, it can be released into the air and cause health problems for those exposed to it.
As part of this article, we’ll discuss the use of formaldehyde in engineered wood, how it can be mitigated, and whether all types of engineered hardwood contain this chemical.
Why Is Formaldehyde Used in Engineered Wood?
If you’re wondering why formaldehyde is used in engineered wood, it’s primarily because of its adhesive properties. Here are some of the reasons why it’s used:
- No 01: Adhesive Properties
- No 02: Enhanced Structural Integrity
- No 03: Cost-Effectiveness
- No 04: Improved Moisture Resistance
- No 05: Increased Fire Resistance
- No 06: Longevity and Durability
- No 07: Compliance with Standards and Regulations
No 01: Adhesive Properties
You may be interested to know that engineered wood products, such as particleboard and MDF, typically contain formaldehyde-based resins as their adhesive. Some products contain up to 10% formaldehyde by weight.
This is because formaldehyde-based resins provide excellent adhesive properties, allowing the wood fibers or particles to bind together and create a strong and durable product.
No 02: Enhanced Structural Integrity
The increased structural integrity of engineered wood owes much to the adhesive properties of formaldehyde-based resins. These resins allow the wood particles or fibers to bond tightly, resulting in a rigid and stable material.
This strength makes engineered wood an ideal choice for construction and furniture manufacturing.
The formaldehyde in the resin is a crucial component that creates a strong bond between the wood particles or fibers, ensuring that the material can withstand significant stress and strain. As a result, engineered wood can be used in a wide range of applications, including flooring, cabinetry, and structural framing.
No 03: Cost-Effectiveness
One major advantage of formaldehyde-based adhesives is their cost-effectiveness, which makes engineered wood products more accessible and affordable for consumers.
Compared to alternative bonding methods, formaldehyde resins are a more affordable option, contributing to the economical production of engineered wood products. This means that consumers can purchase high-quality, durable wood products at a lower cost.
Moreover, the affordability of formaldehyde resins enables the production of a wider range of engineered wood products, increasing their accessibility to consumers across various industries.
No 04: Improved Moisture Resistance
With improved moisture resistance, your engineered wood products will withstand high humidity and moisture levels without swelling or warping, making them a reliable and durable choice for any environment.
This is due to the presence of formaldehyde in the adhesive used to manufacture the products, which reduces the absorption of moisture.
This characteristic is particularly important in environments with high humidity or moisture levels, where traditional wood products could easily degrade.
No 05: Increased Fire Resistance
Formaldehyde-based resins are commonly used in the production of engineered wood products to make them less prone to ignition and slow down the spread of flames.
This is particularly useful in applications where fire safety is a concern, making engineered wood a popular choice for both residential and commercial construction.
No 06: Longevity and Durability
You may be concerned about the longevity and durability of your construction project, but using formaldehyde-based adhesives in your engineered wood products can ensure that they maintain their structural integrity over time.
Formaldehyde resins have binding properties that create a strong bond, making engineered wood products resistant to stress, impacts, and temperature variations. This durability ensures that your project will last. In fact, formaldehyde-based adhesives contribute significantly to the longevity of engineered wood products.
No 07: Compliance with Standards and Regulations
If you want to ensure that your indoor environment meets safety regulations, it’s important to consider the compliance of the adhesives used in your construction project.
Engineered wood products using formaldehyde-based adhesives are designed to meet certain standards and regulations, such as emission standards, established by various countries and regions.
How can engineered wood be mitigated for formaldehyde emissions?
To mitigate formaldehyde emissions from engineered wood, there are several strategies you can use.
- Use Low-Formaldehyde Resins
In an era of smog-filled cities, using low-formaldehyde resins in engineered wood products is as refreshing as breathing fresh air. These resins contain reduced levels of formaldehyde or are free from added formaldehyde altogether, resulting in a significantly lower potential for emissions.
By opting for low-formaldehyde or no-added-formaldehyde (NAF) resins, manufacturers can ensure that the overall formaldehyde content in the final product is reduced, thus mitigating any potential harm to the environment and human health.
This effective solution promotes sustainable and responsible manufacturing practices, and it’s essential to consider when choosing engineered wood products.
- Emission Testing and Certification
Independent testing agencies assess the formaldehyde emissions from the products and provide certifications based on their performance.
Certifications like the California Air Resources Board (CARB) Phase 2 or the Japanese JIS/JAS standards signify lower formaldehyde emissions and can help consumers make informed decisions.
Manufacturers subject their engineered wood products to rigorous testing to ensure compliance with formaldehyde emission standards and regulations. With these certifications, consumers can be assured that the engineered wood products they choose are safe for their health and the environment.
- Improved Production Processes
You can reduce formaldehyde emissions by refining production processes, such as controlling temperature, pressure, and resin application, and improving equipment and ventilation systems. These process optimizations can help minimize the amount of formaldehyde used and emitted during manufacturing.
- Formaldehyde Scavengers
Incorporating formaldehyde scavengers into your resin formulation can greatly reduce the amount of harmful chemicals released into the air, improving the overall safety of your wood products.
These scavengers work by reacting with formaldehyde molecules and trapping them within the wood product, preventing their release into the air.
Here are three benefits of using formaldehyde scavengers: 1) Lowering emissions and improving indoor air quality. 2) Meeting regulatory requirements and industry standards. 3) Enhancing the durability and stability of the wood product.
- Proper Ventilation
To ensure the safety of your indoor environment, it’s important to have proper ventilation. This can be achieved by using fans or air purifiers to help dilute and remove harmful chemicals like formaldehyde. Adequate ventilation is especially important when dealing with engineered wood, which can emit formaldehyde.
Proper airflow can aid in reducing formaldehyde levels indoors, whether it’s during manufacturing, installation, or in occupied spaces. Ventilation systems like exhaust fans and air purifiers can help dilute and remove formaldehyde from the indoor environment.
- Storage and Off-Gassing
By allowing your newly purchased engineered wood products to sit out in the open air for a few days, any trapped chemicals can escape and make for a more breathable indoor environment.
This process, known as off-gassing, involves unpacking and exposing the products to fresh air before installation to help reduce formaldehyde emissions. Proper storage and handling practices can also prevent the accumulation of formaldehyde emissions.
Does all engineered hardwood have formaldehyde?
You may be wondering if all engineered hardwood contains formaldehyde, but the answer isn’t straightforward. While most products do contain formaldehyde, there are exceptions. Here are three things to keep in mind:
1. Not all adhesives contain formaldehyde, so it’s important to check the label or ask the manufacturer about the adhesive used.
2. Even if a product contains formaldehyde, it may meet emissions standards. Look for products that meet the CARB Phase 2 standard, limiting formaldehyde emissions to 0.05 parts per million.
3. Consider your own sensitivity to formaldehyde, as some people may be more sensitive than others.
Does engineered wood have toxic chemicals?
While engineered wood flooring is created using natural wood, it’s often made with glues and resins that contain formaldehyde, a known human carcinogen and serious home air pollutant. This means it may emit toxic chemicals that can negatively impact indoor air quality.
It’s important to choose engineered wood products certified by organizations like the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to ensure that they meet strict emissions standards and are safe for your home.
Engineered Wood: A Sustainable and Safe Choice with Necessary Precautions
Engineered wood is a great option for environmentally conscious and budget-conscious homeowners. However, it’s essential to understand the risks associated with formaldehyde emissions and take the necessary precautions.
By opting for low-emitting or formaldehyde-free products and increasing ventilation, you can enjoy engineered wood’s benefits without risking your health.
Moreover, engineered wood is generally safe for indoor use, but as with all building materials, it’s crucial to handle it with care and seek expert advice if in doubt. Therefore, make an informed decision, create your dream home, and be mindful of the potential hazards hidden beneath the surface.
