Formic Acid SDS
Chemical Properties of Formic Acid
Formic Acid Basic Information
| Property | Details |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name | Formic Acid |
| Chemical Formula | HCOOH |
| CAS Number | 64-18-6 |
| Molecular Weight | 46.03 g/mol |
| Appearance | Colorless liquid |
| Odor | Pungent, sharp odor |
| Density | 1.22 g/cm³ at 20°C |
| Melting Point | 8.4°C |
| Boiling Point | 100.8°C |
| Solubility | Miscible with water, alcohol, and ether |
| pH (Concentrated) | ~2 (Strongly acidic) |
| Common Uses | Preservative, reducing agent, cleaning agent, industrial chemical |
| Hazards | Corrosive, flammable, causes burns and irritation |
Understanding the fundamental chemical properties of formic acid is essential for its safe use and effective application.
- Molecular Formula: The molecular formula is HCOOH, making it the simplest carboxylic acid. This structure consists of a single carbon atom attached to a hydroxyl and a double-bonded oxygen atom.
- Boiling Point: Formic acid boils at approximately 100.8°C (213.4°F), similar to water.
- Melting Point: It has a melting point of 8.4°C (47.1°F), solidifying under cool temperatures.
- Solubility: Highly soluble in water, formic acid can mix in all proportions, making it an excellent solvent.
- Acid Strength: With a pKa of 3.75, it’s classified as a weak acid but still stronger than most organic acids.
For an in-depth scientific insight into formic acid’s properties, you can refer to the further details on its chemical composition here.
Industrial and Commercial Uses
Formic acid is indispensable in industries such as agriculture and manufacturing due to its multifunctional properties.
- Agriculture: Formic acid acts as a preservative and antibacterial agent in livestock feed. It helps prevent bacterial growth, enhancing shelf life and nutrient preservation.
- Leather Production: Known for its use in tanning, formic acid helps process hides, improving the flexibility and finish of leather products.
- Preservative and Anti-Bacterial Agent: It is widely used as a food preservative and in various cleaning products due to its effective antibacterial properties.
Its unique blend of natural occurrence and industrial utility makes formic acid a cornerstone in modern application frameworks. For more detailed information, you can review its industrial relevance.
The Purpose of Formic Acid SDS
Safety Data Sheets (SDS) serve as an indispensable resource for managing hazardous materials like formic acid in workplaces. These documents provide clear, standardized information to ensure user safety and regulatory compliance. Formic acid, a powerful yet widely used chemical, demands careful handling. An accurate SDS not only protects individuals but also helps employers meet legal safety standards.
What Information Does an SDS Contain?
The SDS is a meticulously designed document divided into specific sections. Each section is intended to educate users about potential hazards and critical handling instructions.
Formic Acid Safety Data Sheet (SDS)
| Section | Details |
|---|---|
| 1. Identification | Product Name: Formic Acid CAS Number: 64-18-6 Synonyms: Methanoic acid Intended Use: Industrial chemical, preservative, cleaning agent, or laboratory reagent. |
| 2. Hazards Identification | Classification: – Flammable Liquids (Category 3) – Acute Toxicity, Oral (Category 4) – Skin Corrosion (Category 1A) Pictograms: ⚠️ ☣️ Signal Word: Danger Hazard Statements: – H226: Flammable liquid and vapor. – H302: Harmful if swallowed. – H314: Causes severe skin burns and eye damage. |
| 3. Composition/Information on Ingredients | Chemical Name: Formic Acid Concentration: ≥ 85% (for concentrated solutions) CAS Number: 64-18-6 EC Number: 200-579-1 |
| 4. First Aid Measures | Inhalation: Move to fresh air. Seek medical attention if symptoms persist. Skin Contact: Rinse with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Remove contaminated clothing. Eye Contact: Immediately flush eyes with water for 15 minutes. Seek medical attention. Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting. Rinse mouth and drink water. Seek immediate medical attention. |
| 5. Fire-Fighting Measures | Suitable Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, alcohol-resistant foam, dry chemical, or CO₂. Specific Hazards: Emits toxic fumes of carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide when burned. Protective Equipment: Wear self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and protective clothing. |
| 6. Accidental Release Measures | Personal Precautions: Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing. Ensure adequate ventilation. Spill Cleanup: Neutralize with sodium bicarbonate or lime. Absorb spill with inert material (e.g., sand) and dispose of according to local regulations. |
| 7. Handling and Storage | Handling: Avoid inhalation and contact with skin and eyes. Use only in well-ventilated areas. Storage: Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from heat, sparks, and incompatible materials (e.g., bases, oxidizers). Keep container tightly closed. |
| 8. Exposure Controls/Personal Protection | Exposure Limits: – ACGIH TLV: 5 ppm (9.4 mg/m³) – OSHA PEL: 5 ppm (9 mg/m³) Engineering Controls: Ensure adequate ventilation. Use local exhaust if necessary. Personal Protection: – Respiratory: Use an approved respirator if exposure limits are exceeded. – Eyes: Wear safety goggles or face shield. – Skin: Wear chemical-resistant gloves and protective clothing. |
| 9. Physical and Chemical Properties | Appearance: Clear, colorless liquid Odor: Pungent, sharp odor Melting Point: 8.4°C Boiling Point: 100.8°C Flash Point: 69°C (closed cup) Density: 1.22 g/cm³ at 20°C Solubility: Miscible with water, alcohol, and ether. |
| 10. Stability and Reactivity | Stability: Stable under normal conditions. Incompatible Materials: Bases, strong oxidizers, reducing agents, and metals. Hazardous Decomposition Products: Carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide. |
| 11. Toxicological Information | Acute Toxicity: LD50 (oral, rat): 730 mg/kg Irritation: Causes severe burns to skin and eyes. Chronic Effects: Prolonged exposure may cause respiratory tract irritation and sensitization. |
| 12. Ecological Information | Toxicity: Harmful to aquatic life in high concentrations. Biodegradability: Readily biodegradable. Bioaccumulation: Low potential. |
| 13. Disposal Considerations | Dispose of in accordance with local, regional, and national regulations. Do not release into sewers or waterways. |
| 14. Transport Information | UN Number: 1779 Hazard Class: 8 (Corrosive) Packing Group: II Proper Shipping Name: Formic Acid |
| 15. Regulatory Information | US Regulations: – Listed in TSCA inventory. – Subject to SARA Title III reporting. EU Regulations: – Classified under CLP Regulation (EC) No. 1272/2008. |
| 16. Other Information | Prepared By: [Your Company Name] Date of Issue: [Insert Date] Disclaimer: The information provided is based on current knowledge and intended as a guide. Always refer to the full SDS for comprehensive details. |
- Hazard Identification
The SDS highlights the risks involved with formic acid. For example, it may state that it is corrosive and causes severe skin burns and eye damage. Such details help users assess the necessity for safety precautions. - First Aid Measures
In emergencies, the first aid section is vital. It outlines immediate actions, such as washing affected areas with water in case of skin contact or rinsing the eyes thoroughly if exposed. Quick access to this information can help prevent serious injuries. - Handling Precautions
Safe handling and storage guidance is often listed to reduce risks. Instructions may include using protective gloves, keeping the chemical away from incompatible substances, and promptly sealing containers after each use.
An accurate SDS allows both trained professionals and casual handlers to manage formic acid responsibly. With detailed documentation, you can minimize risks while maintaining compliance with safety laws.
You can refer to additional resource materials such as Safety Data Sheet information from Sigma-Aldrich to gain deeper insights into SDS expectations.
Legal and Regulatory Framework
The creation and use of SDS are not merely practical but legally mandated. Organizations like OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) enforce strict requirements to safeguard workplace conditions. In Europe, REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation, and Restriction of Chemicals) governs chemical safety through similar regulations.
- OSHA Requirements
OSHA mandates that manufacturers must provide an SDS for all hazardous chemicals, including formic acid. Employers are responsible for ensuring their workforce has easy access to these documents. - REACH Regulations
Under REACH, formic acid suppliers are required to compile SDS in accordance with stringent EU guidelines. This ensures that all hazards and precautions are thoroughly detailed. - Global Harmonized System (GHS)
The GHS framework standardizes chemical labeling globally. Formic acid’s hazards—like flammability or corrosivity—are communicated using recognizable symbols and phrases.
Meeting these regulations not only protects workers but also shields companies from legal liabilities. To gain further perspective, check out specific regulatory data, like the Fisher Scientific Safety Sheet for formic acid.
Understanding the purpose and structure of a formic acid SDS helps organizations operate safely and responsibly.
Hazards Associated with Formic Acid
Formic acid, while highly useful in various industrial and commercial applications, is not without risks. Its hazardous properties require careful handling and adherence to safety protocols to prevent harm. Below, we explore the health risks and potential environmental concerns outlined in safety documentation, including the Safety Data Sheet (SDS).
Health Risks
Formic acid poses significant health risks upon improper handling or exposure. It’s a corrosive substance that can damage living tissue and affect the respiratory system if inhaled in significant quantities.
- Skin Burns: Direct skin contact with formic acid can cause severe burns. Even brief exposure can lead to redness, irritation, and chemical burns due to its corrosive nature.
- Eye Damage: Splashing formic acid in the eyes can result in severe eye damage or blindness. Always use protective eyewear when handling this substance.
- Toxic Inhalation: Formic acid emits vapors that may cause irritation to the nose, throat, and lungs when inhaled. High concentrations can lead to dizziness, breathing difficulties, or even pulmonary damage. According to the NIOSH guidelines, it’s essential to maintain exposures well below the permissible exposure limits to prevent acute toxicity. Explore the NIOSH Pocket Guide for more information on exposure thresholds.
Employing personal protective equipment (PPE) like gloves, barriers, and respirators can mitigate these health risks effectively.
Potential Environmental Impacts
The environmental impact of formic acid often comes into play during spills or improper disposal. While it degrades rapidly in nature, concentrated or bulk quantities can pose serious risks.
- Impact on Aquatic Life: Leaks or spills into water systems harm aquatic organisms. Even small amounts can disrupt ecosystems by altering pH levels or acting as a toxic agent.
- Groundwater Contamination: Improper disposal—such as allowing formic acid to seep into the soil—can lead to groundwater contamination, affecting drinking water quality.
- Safe Mitigation Measures:
- Immediately clean up spills using neutralizing agents like sodium bicarbonate.
- Follow the SDS for proper storage in spill-proof, corrosion-resistant containers and avoid unmonitored disposal practices.
For more detailed regulations on handling formic acid spills, consult resources like the formic acid safety guide from NOAA.
By taking these hazards seriously, industries can minimize both health and environmental impacts associated with formic acid use.
Conclusion
The Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for formic acid plays a vital role in workplace safety and regulatory compliance. It outlines crucial details such as hazards, handling precautions, and emergency measures, ensuring that users can handle this corrosive chemical responsibly.
Adherence to SDS guidelines not only minimizes risks but also helps maintain a safe work environment. For additional information on formic acid safety and its industrial applications, explore resources like formic acid properties overview.
Prioritize safety by leveraging accurate SDS documentation and fostering a culture of awareness. Proper precautions and compliance protect not just the workforce but also the environment.
