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How is formaldehyde used in tanning and embalming?

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oxidation of alcohols — aldehyde Alcohols may be oxidized to give aldehydes, ketones, and carboxylic acids. The oxidation of organic compounds generally increases the number of bonds from carbon to oxygen, and it may decrease the number of bonds to hydrogen.

Formaldehyde is a highly reactive aldehyde that interacts directly with proteins, a property that underpins its utility in both the tanning and embalming industries.1

Tanning

In the tanning industry, formaldehyde is utilized to treat animal hides, particularly in the production of white leathers. By reacting with the proteins within the skin, it helps stabilize the material, transforming raw hides into durable leather.12

Embalming

The use of formaldehyde in embalming is also based on its ability to react with proteins. This chemical reaction effectively preserves biological tissues by cross-linking proteins, which prevents decay and acts as a disinfectant.1

It is important to note that while formaldehyde is a versatile industrial chemical, it is classified as a human carcinogen and is known to be extremely irritating to mucous membranes.1