Widely used as a disinfectant and preservative in medical laboratories and mortuaries due to its ability to fix tissues and prevent decay. Commonly employed in the production of industrial resins, such as urea-formaldehyde and phenol-formaldehyde, which are key components in plywood, particleboard, and other wood-based materials. Utilized in the manufacturing of textiles to provide crease resistance and improve durability. Plays a role in the formulation of vaccines and inactivated viruses for medical research. Also used in embalming fluids and in some household cleaning products for its antimicrobial properties.