Automated Fumigation and Neutralization Systems for Formaldehyde Gas

Decontamination of poultry or animal housing areas over the last few decades has often involved the use of formaldehyde gas which, although very effective [l, 2,3,4], is a known carcinogen [4]. Various approaches have been used to release the gas, which is usually generated by adding formalin to potassium permanganate. The process by which the gas is generated has varied over the years from manual systems to automated cookers. In a typical manual system, a worker places a can with the appropriate amount of potassium permanganate in it in the room to be treated. Formalin is then added to the can, and the worker quickly leaves the building since rapid formaldehyde gas production takes place immediately. This approach would create a potentially serious safety hazard if the fumiga-