Formic Acid

Synonym(s)

: ethanoic acid, formylic acid, aminic acid

Mol. Formula

: CH2O2

EC / List no.

: 200-579-1

CAS no.

: 64-18-6

Molecular weight

: 46,025

Formic acid is the simplest carboxylic acid containing a single carbon. It occurs naturally in a variety of sources, including bee venom and ant stings, and is a useful organic synthetic reagent. It is mainly used as a preservative and antibacterial agent in animal feed. Causes severe metabolic acidosis and ocular injury in human subjects. It has the role of antibacterial agent, protic solvent, metabolite, solvent and astringent. It is the conjugate acid of a formate.

Application

»   This substance is used in the following products: washing and cleaning products, leather treatment products, polymers, textile treatment products and dyes, biocides (e.g. disinfectants, pest control products), coating products, metal surface treatment products, pH regulators, treatment products and herbal protection products.
»   Used in machine wash liquids/detergents, automotive care products, paints, coatings or adhesives, fragrances and air fresheners.
»   It is used in various products such as metal, wood, plastic building and building materials, flooring, furniture, toys, building materials, curtains, shoes, leather products, paper and interior use), cardboard products, electronic equipment

Product Specifications

Physical and Chemical Properties
» Formic acid appears as a colorless liquid.
» It has a sharp odor and a sour taste.

Properties

Characteristics	Unit	Value	Condition
Melting point	°C	8
Boiling point	°C	100.23
Solubility	mg/ mL	1000	20 °C, soluble with water
Density	g/cm3	1.22	38 °C
Vapor pressure	hPa	42.71	20 °C
LogP		-2.3- (-1.9)	23 °C, pH=5-9
Surface tension	mN/ m	71.5	1000 mg/ L
Flash point	°C	49.5
Autoignition temperature	°C	528	100.6- 101 kPa
pKa		3.7	20 °C
Viscosity	mm2 /s	1.47	20 °C
Corrosivity		corrosive