Formic Acid: Wide Applications and Sustainable Development of a Multifunctional Chemical

Formic acid (HCOOH), also known as anthranilic acid, is a basic organic chemical raw material with a wide range of industrial applications and unique chemical properties. It is a colourless liquid with a pungent odour and possesses the properties of an acid, an aldehyde and an alcohol at the same time. In recent years, with the increased focus on green chemistry and sustainable development, the application areas of formic acid have been expanding, and its potential as a renewable resource has received increasing attention.

Wide range of industrial applications

Formic acid plays an important role in several industries. In the pharmaceutical field, it is used as a raw material for the production of a wide range of drugs, including painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs and anti-cancer drugs. In the leather and textile industry, formic acid is an important auxiliary for tanning leather and dyeing fabrics, which can improve the quality and durability of products. In addition, formic acid is widely used in the rubber, dye, pesticide, electroplating and food industries.

In the food industry, formic acid is used as a disinfectant and preservative in the brewing industry and as a preservative for canned goods and fruit juices. Its derivatives are also important intermediates in pharmaceuticals, pesticides, dyes and flavours.

Green Chemistry and Sustainable Development

Formic acid, as a renewable resource, has remarkable environmentally friendly properties. It can be obtained through biomass conversion and is a cheap and readily available feedstock. In the catalytic conversion of biomass, the acidic and solvent properties of formic acid can be used in the pretreatment of lignocellulose for cellulose extraction and efficient biomass conversion. In addition, formic acid can be used as a hydrogen source for the catalytic conversion of biomass platform compounds to produce high value-added chemicals.

Safe transport and storage

Formic acid is highly corrosive and irritating, so it requires strict adherence to safety practices during transport and storage. It is usually packed in liquid form in sealed containers, and needs to be kept away from fire and heat sources and isolated from oxidising agents, alkalis and strong acids when transported. During storage, it should be ensured that the containers are well sealed to avoid contact with air and prevent volatilisation and leakage.

Future Prospect

The versatility and renewable properties of formic acid give it great potential for future applications as the need for green chemistry and sustainable development increases. Researchers are exploring ways to further improve the utilisation efficiency of formic acid and develop new catalytic technologies for more efficient and environmentally friendly chemical transformations. Formic acid is not only an important industrial raw material, but also a green chemical that contributes to sustainable development.

In conclusion, as a multifunctional chemical, formic acid plays an important role in many fields. With the advancement of technology and the pursuit of sustainable development, the application prospect of formic acid will be even broader.