Sodium formate

Main Uses

Chemical Intermediate: A key raw material for the production of formic acid (via acidification reaction); synthesis of oxalic acid (ethanedioic acid): sodium formate undergoes high-temperature dehydrogenation to form sodium oxalate, which is then acidified to obtain oxalic acid: \(\ce{2HCOONa \xrightarrow{200-250℃} Na2C2O4 + H2↑}\). Used in the production of sodium hydrosulfite (sodium dithionite), pentaerythritol, and other chemical products.

Leather and Textile Industry: Used as a reducing agent for chrome tanning agents in leather tanning to make leather soft and wear-resistant; used as a reducing agent and mordant in the printing and dyeing industry to help dyes adhere to fibers and improve dyeing uniformity.

Construction and Building Materials: Used as an early strength agent and antifreeze for concrete, accelerating cement hydration reactions, improving early concrete strength, and lowering the freezing point (suitable for winter construction).

Other Fields: Used in the pharmaceutical industry for synthesizing sedatives, preservatives, etc.; used as an additive in drilling fluids in oil drilling to regulate pH and inhibit harmful microorganisms; used as a preservative and acidulant in the feed industry (dosage must be controlled).