Calcium formate
[CAS# 544-17-2]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Organometallic compound >> Organic calcium
• Name: Calcium formate
• Synonyms: Formic acid calcium salt
• Molecular Formula: C₂H₂CaO₄
• Molecular Weight: 130.11
• CAS Registry Number: 544-17-2
• EC Number: 208-863-7
• SMILES: C(=O)[O-].C(=O)[O-].[Ca+2]

Properties

• Density: 2.02 g/mL
• Melting point: 300 ºC
• Water solubility: Soluble

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS05 Danger
• Hazard Statements: H318
• Precautionary Statements: P264+P265-P280-P305+P354+P338-P317

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Serious eye damage	Eye Dam.	1	H318
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	4	H413
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1	H317

Discovory and Applicatios

Calcium formate, with the chemical formula Ca(HCOO)2, is a white, crystalline salt that is commonly used in various industrial and agricultural applications. The compound consists of calcium ions and formate ions, derived from formic acid. Calcium formate has garnered significant attention since its discovery due to its versatile properties and beneficial applications.

The discovery of calcium formate can be traced back to the early 19th century when chemists began to explore the properties of organic acids and their salts. As formic acid was isolated and characterized, researchers recognized that the formation of salts with calcium could lead to materials with unique characteristics. Calcium formate was subsequently produced through the reaction of calcium hydroxide or calcium carbonate with formic acid. Its potential uses were quickly identified in multiple fields, particularly in construction, agriculture, and animal feed.

In the construction industry, calcium formate is widely used as a concrete additive. Its primary function is to accelerate the setting time of concrete, enhancing its early strength development. This is particularly beneficial in cold weather conditions, where traditional concrete setting may be hindered by low temperatures. By promoting hydration and reducing the risk of freezing, calcium formate allows for more efficient construction processes and improved durability of concrete structures. Its ability to function as a setting accelerator is attributed to its low solubility, which helps maintain an adequate concentration of calcium ions in the mixing water.

In agriculture, calcium formate serves as an important feed additive. It is used in animal nutrition to improve the growth performance and overall health of livestock. The compound acts as a source of calcium, an essential nutrient for animal development. Additionally, calcium formate has been found to exhibit antimicrobial properties, helping to reduce the incidence of bacterial infections in livestock. This dual functionality makes it a valuable component in the formulation of animal feeds, promoting better feed conversion rates and overall animal well-being.

Moreover, calcium formate has applications in the production of various chemical compounds. It is utilized as a precursor in the synthesis of other formate derivatives, which can be used in the manufacture of plasticizers, surfactants, and other specialty chemicals. Its compatibility with various chemical processes further expands its utility in industrial applications.

Calcium formate is also recognized for its environmental benefits. As a biodegradable compound, it poses minimal risks to the environment compared to many synthetic additives. This characteristic aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly practices in various industries.

Despite its many advantages, the use of calcium formate must be managed carefully to avoid potential drawbacks, such as excessive calcium accumulation in soils, which can affect plant growth. Ongoing research continues to explore the optimal applications of calcium formate, seeking to maximize its benefits while minimizing any negative impacts on agriculture and the environment.

In conclusion, calcium formate is a versatile chemical compound with valuable applications in construction, agriculture, and chemical synthesis. Its properties as a concrete accelerator, livestock feed additive, and chemical precursor make it a significant substance in various industries. As research continues to uncover new uses and applications, calcium formate's role in promoting efficiency and sustainability in both agriculture and construction is likely to expand further.

References

1998. A Study on the Promotion and Suppression of Demineralization of Human Dental Hard Tissues and Hydroxyapatite. Connective Tissue Research, 38(1-4).
DOI: 10.3109/03008209809017028

2000. The effects of calcium benzoate in diets with or without organic acids on dietary buffering capacity, apparent digestibility, retention of nutrients, and manure characteristics in swine. Journal of Animal Science, 78(10).
DOI: 10.2527/2000.78102622x

2024. Efficient conversion of chitin to 5-hydroxymethylfurfural in a formic acid/calcium chloride system. International Journal of Biological Macromolecules, 285.
DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.137697