Page 411 - My FlipBook

FORMALINE.
409
combining with albuminous or nitrogenous bodies that formalde-
hyde derives its germicidal and bactericidal powers, since bacteria
and micro-organisms generally are not only albumenoid in char-
acter, but their food is mainly albumenoid ; and when formalde-
hyde is present, it combines with both the bacteria and their food,
thus destroying them, as well as the possibility of their existence.
Medicinal Properties^ etc.—The germicidal and antiseptic action
of formaldehyde was demonstrated by Low, Aronson, Berlioz
and Frillat ; also by I. Stahl, who found that formalin is equal in
germicidal power to corrosive sublimate, and under certain con-
ditions superior where albuminoid solutions are concerned. In
large rooms a 2.5 volume per cent, of formalin in the air destroyed
all micro-organisms in a quarter of an hour. When allowed to
evaporate in the presence of wool, gauze-bandages, or other dress-
ing material, the vapors of formalin condensed upon the fabrics
in solid form (paraformalin) and so disinfected them. Hence
dressing materials impregnated with formalin become perfectly
sterile, and can immediately be used as antiseptic dressing. The
vapor from the spray by a steam atomizer above the patient's
head has proven efficient in whooping-cough and chronic bron-
chitis.
Formaldehyde is relatively non-poisonous, but when brought in
contact with the skin, undiluted, causes a tanning effect, making
it impermeable, and finally causing necrosis. This action is due
to the property formalin possesses of readily penetrating living
and dead tissue, and combining with it. Formalin readily and
quickly influences both albumin and gelatine, changing them into
a tough coagulum which does not lose its form, and possesses
persistent antiseptic properties for certain micro-organisms.
Formalin attacks only the substance of the contagious material,
leaving intact the articles treated, whether of organic or inorganic
nature. It is also very readily employed under all circumstances,
either in liquid or gaseous form. Its specific gravity closely
approximates that of air, hence its power of keeping the atmos-
phere of an enclosed space uniformly impregnated with formalin
vapor. Inhaled in quantity, formalin has marked toxic prop-
erties.