Recently, the traditional perceptions that "water-based = environmentally friendly" and "low VOC = zero formaldehyde" in the market have been challenged. Test data shows that some compliant water-based coatings still contain trace formaldehyde residues, and the issue of their sources and control has attracted industry attention. A professional team from Zhangdao Technology has uncovered four hidden sources of formaldehyde in water-based coatings through technical analysis. Contrary to common consumer perception, formaldehyde in water-based coatings is rarely intentionally added, but mainly generated through four major pathways: by-products remaining in the synthesis or crosslinking of some water-based resins, which is more common in old processes and small-factory formulations; trace formaldehyde slowly released by formaldehyde-releasing preservatives when exposed to water or temperature changes, which is the most important source currently; impurity formaldehyde introduced by insufficient purity of additives and solvents or unpurified process water; and trace formaldehyde generated by the degradation of organic components under high temperature and ultraviolet conditions during construction and storage. The hazards of formaldehyde cannot be ignored. It not only irritates mucous membranes and induces allergies, but also is classified as a Group 1 carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). It also affects coating performance, leading to yellowing and odor residue. In response, the industry has formed a multi-dimensional solution: selecting environmentally friendly resin systems such as formaldehyde-free acrylic emulsions at the source; replacing traditional formaldehyde-releasing preservatives with isothiazolinones, bio-based products, etc.; using formaldehyde scavengers to convert free formaldehyde into stable structures; and comprehensively reducing formaldehyde content through process optimization such as improving reaction conversion rate and strict raw material testing. Experts remind consumers to pay attention to product test reports and choose products that meet national standards such as GB18582. Enterprises in the industry are addressing environmental pain points through technological innovation, promoting the upgrade of the water-based coating industry from "low VOC" to "truly formaldehyde-free", and providing guarantee for indoor air quality safety.

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