Formic Acid
Product Description
Formic acid is the simplest of the carboxylic acids.
Product:
Formic Acid
CAS:
64-18-6
Synonym:
Methanoic acid; Formylic acid; Aminic acid
Structure:
Typical Characteristics
Appearance
Colorless liquid
Boiling point
100 - 101 °C
Density
1.22 g/cm3
Melting point
8.2 - 8.4 °C
Molecular Weight
46.03
Odor
Pungent odor
Purity
99%
Refractive index
1.370
Uses, Applications & Markets
Key applications
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Formic Acid used in many
industry applications
Formic acid, also known as methanoic acid, is a chemical compound with various industrial applications. Here's a list of some of its uses:
- Textile Industry: Formic acid is used in textile processing, particularly in dyeing and finishing. It helps in the fixation of dyes on fabrics, improving color fastness and brightness.
- Leather Tanning: It is employed in the leather industry for tanning hides and skins. Formic acid helps in the removal of hair and other unwanted proteins from the hide, leading to better quality leather.
- Preservative: Formic acid is used as a preservative in animal feed and silage. It helps inhibit the growth of bacteria and molds, preventing spoilage and maintaining feed quality.
- Deicing Agent: It is used in the aviation industry as a deicing agent for runways and aircraft. Formic acid effectively melts ice and snow, ensuring safe takeoffs and landings.
- Desiccant: Formic acid is employed as a desiccant in industrial drying processes, such as the production of certain chemicals and pharmaceuticals. It helps remove moisture from reaction mixtures, facilitating product isolation and purification.
- Chemical Synthesis: It serves as a precursor or intermediate in the synthesis of various chemicals, including pharmaceuticals, pesticides, and perfumes. Formic acid is used in esterification, amidation, and other organic reactions.
- Oil and Gas Production: It is used in the oil and gas industry for well stimulation and acidizing. Formic acid is injected into wells to dissolve minerals and enhance oil or gas production.
- Antimicrobial Agent: Formic acid is used as an antimicrobial agent in food preservation and hygiene products. It helps inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and algae, extending the shelf life of food products and ensuring sanitation.
- Organic Solvent: Formic acid is employed as a solvent in various organic synthesis and purification processes. It is particularly useful for the extraction of certain natural products and the dissolution of cellulose-based materials.
- Biocide: It is used as a biocide in industrial water treatment to control algae and microbial growth in cooling towers, boilers, and process water systems. Formic acid helps prevent fouling and corrosion caused by microorganisms.