1. Synonyms

Acide formique;acideformique;acideformique(french);Acido formico;acidoformico;Add-F;Kwas metaniowy;kwasmetaniowy

2. Usage

Formic acid, also known as methanoic acid, is a colorless liquid with a pungent odor. It is a simple organic acid and is named after ants, as it was first isolated by the distillation of ant bodies. Here are some common uses of formic acid:

1. Preservative and antibacterial agent: Formic acid is commonly used as a preservative in livestock feed and food products. It helps prevent the growth of bacteria and molds, thereby extending the shelf life of the products.
2. Textile industry: Formic acid is used in the textile industry as a dyeing and finishing agent. It helps in the fixation of various dyes, improving color fastness and enhancing the durability of textiles.
3. Leather industry: Formic acid is used for leather tanning and finishing processes. It aids in removing hair and other impurities from animal hides and improves the softness, strength, and color fastness of leather.
4. Rubber industry: Formic acid is used in the rubber industry as a coagulant in the production of rubber latex. It helps in the coagulation process, leading to the formation of rubber sheets.
5. Cleaning agent: Formic acid is used as a cleaning agent to remove mineral deposits, rust, and stains from various surfaces. It is particularly effective in cleaning glass and aluminum.
6. Beekeeping: Formic acid is used by beekeepers to control Varroa mites, which are parasitic mites that infest honeybee colonies. It is considered an effective and environmentally friendly treatment for mite infestations.
7. Pharmaceuticals: Formic acid is used as an intermediate in the production of various pharmaceuticals and drugs.
8. Manufacturing: Formic acid is used in various chemical reactions as a reducing agent, catalyst, or solvent. It is also used as a raw material in the production of other chemicals like formates, esters, and solvents.

It's important to note that formic acid is corrosive and can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Safety precautions should be taken when handling and using formic acid.