Formaldehyde which is generally used in plywood production and which denotes a negative influence on health, due to its suspected carcinogenicity has contributed to worries. Due to the evidence from global research, recently the World Health Organization has reclassified formaldehyde as a carcinogen. Amidst these findings, questions arise: should we therefore use such products or not? Do customers have to worry about it being present in plywood?

Let’s give you answers to these questions along with the best solutions!

What is Formaldehyde?

Formaldehyde is a naturally occurring organic compound, a colourless and unpleasant gas which is found in plywood as well as in various natural processes like decay, burning, etc. It simply is the base of industrial resin production, including the adhesive that is used to provide plywood with bonding capabilities. These types of adhesives, Phenol-formaldehyde, urea-formaldehyde or melamine-formaldehyde, are used extensively all over the world in the plywood industry and are the primary source for formaldehyde emission in all of the finishing plywood products.

Health Effects of Formaldehyde Exposure

Prolonged exposure to low formaldehyde concentrations may result in the development of asthmatic symptoms and, additionally, will cause varying degrees of eye, nose, and throat irritation.

Concentrations as low as 0.4 to 3 parts per million are enough to lead to mild to moderate discomfort which includes watery eyes, running nose and irritated throat. A number of reported cases of skin and eye irritation contact with formaldehyde solutions have been followed occasionally by allergic skin reactions after prolonged exposure.

Furthermore, recent research also shows a probable association between formaldehyde exposure and particular types of cancers, mainly nasopharyngeal cancer, although the postulated effect is typically only after long-term exposure to large doses of this compound. Hence, it is fair to say that formaldehyde is a rather toxic chemical even though it is naturally occurring. This calls for close attention and necessary precautionary measures.

Why You Should Not Worry About Formaldehyde In Plywood?

While concerns about formaldehyde emissions from plywood are understandable, there are several reasons why you should not worry excessively about it:

• The formaldehyde emissions from plywood get significantly lower by the time suppliers receive it (for both exterior and interior plywood).
• Plywood is an essential building material and is widely used in construction and furniture manufacturing, making it difficult to avoid completely.
• Formaldehyde emissions are highest immediately after manufacturing when phenol formaldehyde adhesive is used. However, this emission gradually reduces over time.
• Formaldehyde vapor emission can be further reduced by applying phenolic coatings on plywood products during manufacturing.
• By the time plywood products reach suppliers, formaldehyde emission values are generally considered very low, if not zero.
• Plywood products typically release formaldehyde in very small quantities, posing no harm to customers.

Formaldehyde poses a threat to plywood production, but the risks are fairly minimal. Especially when the products are delivered to the supplier, the risk can almost be zero. Hence, consumers can trust plywood materials for various applications without having undue confidence about formaldehyde inhalation.

How to Reduce the Formaldehyde in Your House?

Lowering the formaldehyde level present in the house should be a paramount goal to make the indoor atmosphere more supportive in health terms. Here are some effective strategies:

• Use Low-Formaldehyde Plywood: Go for plywood that is manufactured with no-added formaldehyde (NAF) or ultra-low emitting formaldehyde-based resins (ULEF). Formally, there is no such thing as formaldehyde-free plywood; however, manufacturers can now produce materials with far lower emissions. Select E1 or E0 plywood grades to reduce exposure and use them for flooring, cabinets, and furniture. Make a trial of the plywood yourself if you're unsure of its quality.
• Use Less Engineered Panels: Even with E1-rated materials, extensive use of engineered wood panels in a space can still lead to formaldehyde emissions. Balance them with solid wood to lower the overall emission levels.
• Seal The Plywood: Laminating or coating plywood surfaces helps reduce formaldehyde emissions. Use vapour barrier options like paint, varnish, or vinyl—avoiding polyurethane. Ensure the sealant is also formaldehyde-free to prevent adding more emissions. Sealed edges reduce seepage, keeping indoor air quality safer.

Plywood Quality You Can Trust With CenturyPly

At CenturyPly, we emphasise quality and safety by strictly complying with the Indian Standards. This dedication has given us the reputation of being a premium plywood manufacturer. Authenticity is one of our main principles in the process, therefore the quality of the products is at the highest standards.

Our plywood is E1 emission safe so it has an emission rate of 0.07 ppm which is minimum. In addition, our products are recyclable and environmentally friendly and thus reduce their impact on the natural environment.

At CenturyPly you can always be certain that you deal with the quality and sustainability-yielding plywood that makes your projects and nature at large free from worries.