Chemicals

Formic Acid

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Chemical Name	Formic Acid, 97+%
Synonyms	Add-F; Add-F (silage additive); Amasil; Amasil 85; Ameisensaure; Aminic acid; Bilorin; Collo-Bueglatt; Collo-Didax; Ensilox; Formira; Formisoton; Formylic Acid; Hydrogen Carboxylic Acid; Methanoic Acid; Methanoic Acid Monomer; Myrmicyl; Sybest; Wonderbond Hardener M 600L;
CAS Number	64-18-6
Molecular Formula	CH₂O₂
Appearance	Colourless Oil
Molecular Weight	46.03
Storage	4°C, Inert atmosphere
Solubility	Chloroform (Sparingly), Dichloromethane (Slightly), Water (Sparingly)
Stability	Volatile
Category	Standards; Natural Products;
Applications	Formic Acid is used as a potential energy source in the preparation of fuel cells. Also used in chemical synthesis of various anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial agents.
	Not a dangerous good if item is equal to or less than 1g/ml and there is less than 100g/ml in the package

Formic Acid: Properties, Production, and Uses

Formic acid is a colorless and pungent liquid, which has a chemical formula HCOOH. It is an organic acid and is commonly found in the venom of some ant species, hence the name "formic" which is derived from the Latin word for ant, formica. In this article, we will explore the properties, production, and uses of formic acid.

Properties of Formic Acid

Chemical Formula: HCOOH
Molecular Weight: 46.03 g/mol
Melting Point: 8.4 °C
Boiling Point: 100.8 °C
Density: 1.220 g/mL
Solubility: Miscible in water and many organic solvents
Odor: Pungent and sour

Production of Formic Acid

Formic acid can be produced through various methods, including the following:

Carbonylation of Methanol: This is the most common method of formic acid production, where methanol is reacted with carbon monoxide in the presence of a catalyst.
Oxidation of Formaldehyde: Formaldehyde can be oxidized using a strong oxidizing agent such as potassium permanganate to produce formic acid.
Biomass Fermentation: Formic acid can also be produced through the fermentation of biomass, such as sugar, corn, and wood.

Uses of Formic Acid

Formic acid has numerous industrial and commercial uses, including:

Textile Industry: It is used in the dyeing and finishing process of textiles to improve color fastness.
Leather Industry: Formic acid is used as a tanning agent in the production of leather.
Agriculture: It is used as a preservative in silage and as a pesticide in crop protection.
Pharmaceutical Industry: Formic acid is used in the production of various drugs, such as formicin and phenylformic acid.
Rubber Industry: It is used in the production of rubber products to improve their elasticity.
Cleaning Agents: Formic acid is also used as a cleaning agent in various applications.

Hazards and Precautions

Formic acid is a highly corrosive and toxic substance that can cause severe skin and eye irritation. Inhalation of formic acid vapors can also cause respiratory problems. It is essential to handle formic acid with caution and wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including gloves, goggles, and a respirator.

Conclusion

Formic acid is an important organic acid with various industrial and commercial uses. It can be produced through different methods, including the carbonylation of methanol, oxidation of formaldehyde, and biomass fermentation. However, formic acid is a highly corrosive and toxic substance that requires careful handling and precautions.