Is the smell in a new car formaldehyde?
2 Answers
The smell in a new car comes from many sources, including formaldehyde. The odor in a new car mainly originates from car seat cushions, plastic products, roof felts, etc. The lower-end the car, the cheaper the materials used. The adhesives in these materials contain formaldehyde, benzene is used for coloring, and plastic decorations use agents containing formaldehyde and TVOC. Additional information: Methods to remove formaldehyde from a new car are as follows: 1. Open windows frequently and ventilate well: Formaldehyde is directly related to temperature; higher temperatures lead to higher concentrations, making ventilation crucial. When driving, keep the windows open as much as possible to ventilate the car. This is the most direct method to accelerate air circulation inside the car, helping to eliminate odors and formaldehyde. However, it takes a long time and may not be convenient in bad weather. 2. Bamboo charcoal bags: Bamboo charcoal in these bags has a porous structure with strong adsorption capabilities, effectively absorbing harmful gases like formaldehyde, benzene, and sulfur dioxide from the car while releasing natural minerals. Bamboo charcoal bags also have excellent moisture absorption, helping to dehumidify, deodorize, and prevent mold in the car. 3. Car air purifiers: Car air purifiers can filter the air inside the vehicle, effectively removing PM2.5, toxic and harmful gases, odors, bacteria, viruses, and other pollutants. However, windows need to be closed when using them. 4. Photocatalysts: Photocatalysts, like common air fresheners, are liquid-based and primarily composed of titanium dioxide. When exposed to ultraviolet light from sunlight or artificial lighting, they react to produce substances that can break down organic compounds and their nutrients. This process decomposes harmful substances like formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene into harmless water and carbon dioxide, thereby purifying the air. It effectively prevents mold, eliminates odors, and kills or inhibits bacteria.
When I bought my new car last year, I was also worried whether that smell was caused by formaldehyde. In fact, the new car smell is a mixture of various chemicals, including formaldehyde, benzene, and other volatile substances, which come from the seat leather, plastic panels, and adhesives. These substances are released intensely right after the car leaves the factory. It's not just the smell of formaldehyde alone, but rather a gas similar to new furniture. Short-term exposure might be fine, but I recommend keeping the windows open for ventilation when you first get the car, especially in summer when higher temperatures speed up the release. You can also place activated charcoal bags to absorb the odors or buy a car-specific air purifier. Usually, the smell fades significantly after a month or so of driving. If it persists, it's best to check if there are any defects in the car's interior materials. Remember, health comes first—especially when children or elderly are in the car, airing it out beforehand provides peace of mind.
