Formaldehyde is a naturally occurring organic compound composed of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen that has the simple chemical structure of CH2O. It was first reported in 1859 but wasn't conclusively identified until 1868 by August Wilhelm von Hofmann, who established its structure and identity. Hofmann also developed the method used today for manufacturing formaldehyde. Formaldehyde has many important industrial and household uses due to its ability to form strong bonds as a precursor to other materials.