Formaldehyde is a colourless gas with a characteristic pungent odour. Commercial solutions of formaldehyde in water, commonly called formalin, are used as disinfectants and for preservation of biological specimens. A saturated water solution, that contains about 40% formaldehyde by volume or 37% by mass, is called "100% formalin".

An aqueous solution of formaldehyde can be useful as a disinfectant as it kills most bacteria and fungi (including their spores). Formaldehyde solutions are applied topically in medicine to dry the skin, such as in the treatment of warts.

Formaldehyde solutions are used as a fixative for microscopy and histology, although the percentage formaldehyde used may vary based on the method of analysis.

Formaldehyde is highly toxic to all animals, regardless of method of intake. Ingestion of as little as 30 mL of a solution containing 37% formaldehyde might cause death in an adult. Water solution of formaldehyde is very corrosive and its ingestion can cause severe injury to upper gastrointestinal tract.

Since formalin is a fundamental solution for Hospitals, Pathology and Microbiology Laboratories, Forensic Medicine Applications, etc. Formalin is used generally in a concentrate of 10%, however it is hard to obtain a sensitive 10% solution, which would be mandatory for some applications, since it is hard to work with formalin due to its odour and harmful effects to human health. Many laboratories prefer ready to use 10% formalin solutions, which are much more expensive than 37% formalin.

Use of equipment and device that minimizes laboratory workers' all kinds of contact with chemicals is a necessity in terms of health and safety of employees.

The Turkish SME developed formalin dispensing device for hindering the problems by working with formalin. This equipment is an automatic system, which uses 37% formalin to achieve formalin in required concentration and also allow to real time pH tracking.

The Turkish company offers its technology to partners using formalin in their laboratories.

The company can adapt the device to partner's needs and install the equipment; they offer also tailor-made automation projects by using stainless steel and the dispensing equipment.

Innovative Aspects:
The technology offered has following advantages compared to present usage of formalin:

" Fully automatic and closed system protecting the user from harmful effects of formalin. " 10% factory set or user-defined formalin prepare options using 37%formaldehyde, which is cheaper than ready to use one, so is more economical. " Obtaining formalin directly from tap." Always prepare the solution in accurate proportions and enables online follow-up remaining amount of formaldehyde volume from screen and real time pH tracking." The system can be adapted to specific needs.

 

Patents/Rights: Secret know-how

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