Urea-formaldehyde (UF), also known as urea-methanal, so named for its common synthesis pathway and overall structure, is a non-transparent thermosetting resin or polymer. It is produced from urea and formaldehyde. These resins are used in adhesives, finishes, particle board, medium-density fibreboard (MDF), and molded objects. UF and related amino resins are a class of thermosetting resins of which urea-formaldehyde resins make up 80% produced globally. Examples of amino resins use include in automobile tyres to improve the bonding of rubber to tyre cord, in paper for improving tear strength, in molding electrical devices, jar caps, etc.
In 2019, the market size of Urea Formaldehyde is 8390 million US$ and it will reach 12800 million US$ in 2025, growing at a CAGR of 5.4% from 2019. Wood flour and thermoplastic‐modified urea‐formaldehyde (UF) suspensions are blended to form a wood composite which can sustain impacts better than other similar composites. Wooden furniture market on a global forum is expected to grow at a CAGR of around 5% during 2018-2022. However, volatile prices and availability of raw materials, availability of substitute compounds, and stringent government environment regulations are the key restraints for the urea formaldehyde market.