Formic Acid

About Formic Acid

Formic Acid is the simplest carboxylic acid, containing only one carbon. It is a colorless liquid with a pungent aroma. It is about 10 times stronger than Acetic Acid. In nature, it is found in the secretions of certain ants and bees as a defense mechanism, although industrially it is produced from Methanol.

Since it is miscible with water and most organic solvents, it is commonly used as a pH modifier in liquid chromatography solvent systems. However, the most widespread use of this compound is in the agricultural industry, as a preservative and antimicrobial agent in livestock feed, or to optimize fermentation conditions in silage. It is also an important intermediate or byproduct in chemical synthesis.

Common Uses and Applications

• Preservative/antimicrobial
• Beekeeping
• Fuel cells
• pH modifier in chromatography
• Cleaning products
• Textiles/leathers

Industries

• Agricultural Industry
• Research Laboratories
• Textile Industry