Colorimetric Analytical Probe for Determination of Formaldehyde and its Validation using a Single Reagent

Abstract

A simple and sensitive method for the determination of formaldehyde is proposed involving Terbutaline sulphate with the formation of yellow coloured product with absorption maximum at 460 nm in the presence of concentrated sulphuric acid (strength = 36 N) is proposed. The method lies in a calibration range from 0.038 to 0.76 μg ml-1 and molar absorptivity 2.6 × 104 M-1 cm-1. The method has been validated with a Phloroglucinol method in its determination in Fruits, Vegetable and Water bodies.