I’ve read somewhere that MDF panels can let off formaldehyde gas, is this true? If so, is it dangerous? I feel like it’s a load of baloney since I’ve had tons of it up in different places, and still do.
Thanks
Medium density fiberboard uses urea formaldehyde resins in the bonding process that makes working with it a problem for manufacturing and carpenters, especially people exposed to the dust, as formaldehyde is a known carcinogen. To consumers and homeowners it is not considered dangerous since it won’t generate dust by itself. Cutting, sanding, or grinding MDF requires the use of protective measures to limit exposure to the dust produced.
It depends on what resins they use to make the MDF. Many of those resins can release formaldehyde.
The carcinogenic risk is mostly for the manufacturers of MDF, not the end users. At the manufacturing facility, the formaldehyde concentration levels can be high enough that the carcinogenic risk becomes significant.
Just having MDF around you isn’t a problem. Yes, it does slowly release formaldehyde, but the concentration level is so low that it’s not a risk.
If you work with MDF, the dust from sawing and sanding will also release formaldehyde. As long as you take appropriate precautions (working in a well ventilated area, using a dust mask, etc) it’s not a problem.
There are versions of MDF produced that use resins that emit either very low levels of formaldehyde or no formaldehyde at all. If you are concerned about it, you can look for these products.
ETA: Damn ninjas.
I figured as much, I couldn’t really see how it would be released unless using a saw or something, then again everything you cut with a saw can be harmful if you breathe in the dust. I’m going to go ahead and put up these MDF panels soon. In case anyone was curious, I’m using them to overlay some drywall in the garage behind a work bench to protect from tool damage.
Thanks for the responses!
Formaldehyde can be emitted from MDF. The infamousFEMA housing send to New Orleanshad this problem. It’s unlikely for substantial levels of formaldehyde to be detected in your home from countertops and furniture though. The FEMA trailers may have been sitting in the sun for years without ventilation resulting in the release of detectable levels of formaldehyde.