Formic Acid

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Formic Acid (methanoic acid) is the simplest carboxylic acid, typically supplied as an 85% aqueous solution. It is a colorless liquid with a pungent, penetrating odor and strong acidic properties. Formic Acid naturally occurs in insect stings and plant secretions and is widely used in chemical synthesis, agriculture, textile, leather, and rubber industries. The 85% solution balances potency and safe handling for industrial applications. It serves as a preservative, antibacterial agent, and intermediate chemical in numerous manufacturing processes.

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Categories: Preservatives(food), pH Adjusters Tags: Antibacterial Agent, Formic Acid, Industrial Acid, Methanoic Acid, Pesticide Ingredient

Description

Table of Contents

Formic Acid

Primary Uses

Agriculture and Animal Feed

Used as a preservative and acidifier in silage and animal feed to inhibit microbial growth and improve feed quality.
Acts as a bactericide and fungicide to control microbial contamination in feed storage and transport.

Chemical Industry

Serves as an intermediate in the production of various chemicals such as formate esters, formamide, and formic anhydride.
Used in leather tanning processes to adjust pH and as a pickling agent.
Employed in rubber processing as a coagulant for latex and natural rubber.
Utilized in textile processing for dye fixation and finishing treatments.

Cleaning and Decontamination

Included in industrial cleaning products for scale removal and metal surface treatment.
Used to clean boilers, cooling towers, and heat exchangers by removing mineral deposits and rust.

Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics

Occasionally used in small amounts in topical formulations as a pH adjuster and antimicrobial agent.

Food Industry

Used as a preservative and antibacterial agent in certain food processing applications, particularly in beekeeping and fruit preservation (regulated usage).

Secondary Uses

Environmental Applications

Applied in wastewater treatment for pH adjustment and microbial control.
Used in sludge treatment to reduce odors and microbial activity.

Laboratory and Research

Used as a reagent in organic synthesis and analytical chemistry.
Employed in studies involving acid catalysis and metal ion extraction.

KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

Chemical Name (IUPAC): Formic acid
Common/Trade Name: Formic Acid, Methanoic Acid
CAS Number: 64-18-6
HS Code: 2915.11
Molecular Formula: CH2O2
Synonyms: Hydrogen carboxylic acid, Methanoic acid, Formiatric acid

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

Physical State: Liquid
Color & Odor: Colorless to pale yellow; pungent, penetrating odor
Boiling Point: 100.8 °C (85% aqueous solution)
Density: ~1.22 g/cm³ (85% solution)
Solubility: Completely miscible with water; soluble in alcohol and ether
pH: Strongly acidic; ~2.2 for 85% solution
Stability: Stable under normal conditions; corrosive to metals

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

Hazard Class (GHS): Corrosive (Category 1A), Skin corrosion/irritation, Serious eye damage/irritation
Toxicity: Moderate toxicity; harmful if swallowed, causes severe skin burns and eye damage
Exposure Limits: OSHA PEL: 5 ppm (8-hr TWA), NIOSH REL: 5 ppm (15-min ceiling)

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

Storage Conditions: Store in cool, dry, well-ventilated areas away from incompatible materials (strong bases, oxidizers)
Container Type: Corrosion-resistant containers, usually high-density polyethylene or glass-lined steel drums
Shelf Life: 12-24 months under recommended conditions
Handling Precautions: Avoid inhalation, skin and eye contact; use personal protective equipment

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

Regulated as a hazardous chemical by OSHA, EPA, REACH, and other agencies
Usage limits and handling requirements strictly enforced in industrial and consumer settings

6. Environmental & Health Impact

Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable in aerobic conditions
Ecotoxicity: Toxic to aquatic life; avoid release into waterways
Bioaccumulation: Not expected to bioaccumulate
Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity: Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic

SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

PPE Required: Acid-resistant gloves, safety goggles, face shield, protective clothing, and respiratory protection if airborne mist present
Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid generation of vapors and mist; avoid contact with skin and eyes
Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed, away from heat and incompatible substances
Hygiene Practices: Wash thoroughly after handling; do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling

First Aid Measures

Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately; if breathing is difficult, give oxygen; seek medical attention
Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing; rinse skin with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention
Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; seek urgent medical care
Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; rinse mouth; seek immediate medical attention

Firefighting Measures

Fire Hazards: Flammable liquid; emits toxic fumes of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide when burned
Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, dry chemical, or carbon dioxide (CO₂)
Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear self-contained breathing apparatus and protective gear
Decomposition Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and other hazardous fumes