Oxalic Acid
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Chemical Name | Oxalic Acid |
Synonyms | Ethanedioic Acid; Aktisal; Aquisal; DeerClean; NSC 132055; NSC 151956; NSC 62774; NSC 76990; Ultraplast Activate S 52; |
CAS Number | 144-62-7 |
Alternate CAS # | Dihydrate: 6153-56-6 |
Molecular Formula | C₂H₂O₄ |
Appearance | White to Off-White Solid |
Melting Point | 188-193°C |
Molecular Weight | 90.03 |
Storage | 4°C |
Solubility | DMSO (Slightly), Methanol (Slightly), Water (Slightly) |
Category | Building Blocks; Pharmaceutical/API Drug Impurities/Metabolites; |
Oxalic Acid: Properties, Uses, and Safety Precautions
Oxalic acid is a colorless, odorless crystalline solid with the chemical formula C2H2O4. It is a dicarboxylic acid that is commonly found in plants, including spinach and rhubarb. In this article, we will explore the properties, uses, and safety precautions of oxalic acid.
Properties of Oxalic Acid: Oxalic acid has the following properties:
- Molecular weight: 90.03 g/mol
- Melting point: 365-367°C (689-693°F)
- Boiling point: 365°C (689°F) at 760 mmHg
- Density: 1.9 g/cm3
- Solubility: Soluble in water, ethanol, and ether
Oxalic acid is a strong acid that can react with bases to form salts, known as oxalates.
Uses of Oxalic Acid: Oxalic acid is used in a variety of applications, including:
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Cleaning agent: Oxalic acid is used as a cleaning agent for rust removal, stain removal, and wood bleaching. It is particularly effective at removing rust stains from concrete and masonry.
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Industrial applications: Oxalic acid is used in the textile and leather industries for bleaching, dyeing, and finishing processes. It is also used in the production of other chemicals, including formic acid and oxalate salts.
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Food and beverage: Oxalic acid is used as a food additive and preservative in some foods and beverages, including soft drinks and candy. It is also found naturally in some fruits and vegetables.
Safety Precautions: Oxalic acid is a hazardous chemical and should be handled with proper safety precautions. It can cause skin and eye irritation and can be harmful if ingested or inhaled.
When working with oxalic acid, it is important to wear protective clothing, including gloves and goggles. It should be stored in a cool, dry place away from sources of heat and flame.
Exposure to high concentrations of oxalic acid can cause respiratory problems and can be fatal. It should only be used in a well-ventilated area with proper respiratory protection.
Conclusion: Oxalic acid is a versatile chemical that is used in a variety of applications, including cleaning, industrial processes, and food and beverage production. It is a strong acid that can react with bases to form salts and can be hazardous if not handled with proper safety precautions. However, it is an important chemical that has many useful applications.