Chemical Formula: HCOOH
Molecular Weight: 46.03 g/mol
Description:
Formic Acid, also known as Methanoic Acid, is the simplest carboxylic acid. It is a colorless, fuming liquid with a pungent odor, miscible with water, alcohol, and ether. It occurs naturally in the stings of ants and bees and is widely used in various industries. Formic acid serves as a versatile chemical intermediate, preservative, and reducing agent in dyeing and finishing textiles, as well as in leather and rubber production.
Applications:
Textile Industry: Used in dyeing and finishing processes as a reducing and neutralizing agent.
Leather Industry: Employed in tanning and pH adjustment for leather processing.
Rubber Industry: Acts as a coagulant in natural rubber latex production.
Agriculture: Preservative and antibacterial agent in animal feed and silage.
Chemical Industry: Intermediate for formate salts, esters, and other organic synthesis applications.
Pharmaceuticals: Used in formulations and as a chemical reagent.
Key Properties:
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear, colorless liquid |
| Odor | Pungent, penetrating odor |
| Purity (Assay) | 85% / 90% / 99% |
| Boiling Point | 100.8°C |
| Melting Point | 8.4°C |
| Flash Point | 68°C (Closed Cup) |
| Density (@20°C) | ~1.22 g/cm³ |
| Solubility | Miscible with water, alcohol, and ether |
| pH (of 1% soln) | Strongly acidic |
| Stability | Stable under normal conditions; decomposes on heating |
| Grade | Industrial / LR / AR |
| Packaging | 35 kg HDPE carboys / 250 kg drums / bulk tankers |
| Storage | Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from heat, oxidizing agents, and strong bases. Keep containers tightly closed. Handle with acid-resistant equipment. |