Potassium formate
[CAS# 590-29-4]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Organometallic compound >> Organic potassium
• Name: Potassium formate
• Synonyms: Formic acid potassium salt
• Molecular Formula: CHKO₂
• Molecular Weight: 84.11
• CAS Registry Number: 590-29-4
• EC Number: 209-677-9
• SMILES: C(=O)[O-].[K+]

Properties

• Density: 1.91 g/mL (20 ºC)
• Melting point: 165-168 ºC
• Water solubility: soluble 331% w/w (18 ºC)

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: GHS07 Warning
• Hazard Statements: H319
• Precautionary Statements: P264+P265-P280-P305+P351+P338-P337+P317

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Specific target organ toxicity - single exposure	STOT SE	3	H335
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Skin corrosion	Skin Corr.	1B	H314

Discovory and Applicatios

Potassium formate, with the chemical formula KHCOO, is a white, odorless salt derived from formic acid and potassium hydroxide. Its discovery dates back to the 19th century, as researchers began to understand the properties of various carboxylic acids and their salts. The compound has gained prominence due to its versatility in both industrial and laboratory applications.

One of the primary uses of potassium formate is as a de-icing agent for roads and runways. Its efficacy in melting ice at lower temperatures than conventional salt makes it an environmentally friendly alternative to sodium chloride. Potassium formate's ability to lower the freezing point of water enables it to perform effectively in colder climates, where traditional de-icing agents may be less effective. The compound is less corrosive than sodium chloride, which helps in minimizing damage to road surfaces, vehicles, and surrounding vegetation.

In addition to its role in de-icing, potassium formate is widely utilized in the oil and gas industry, particularly in drilling fluids. It serves as an important component in completion and workover fluids due to its unique properties. The high solubility of potassium formate in water enhances its effectiveness as a weighting agent and helps maintain the stability of the wellbore. Furthermore, its low toxicity and biodegradability make it a suitable choice for environmentally sensitive areas.

Potassium formate is also valuable in the production of various chemical compounds. It acts as a source of potassium in chemical syntheses and is employed in the manufacture of potassium carbonate, a crucial compound in glass and detergent production. Additionally, potassium formate serves as a precursor in the synthesis of other potassium salts and can be used in the formulation of agricultural fertilizers, providing essential nutrients for crop growth.

In the food industry, potassium formate is sometimes utilized as a food preservative and a flavor enhancer. Its role as a potassium source is particularly important in food formulations, as potassium is an essential nutrient for human health. Furthermore, the compound is being investigated for its potential in developing food packaging materials due to its biodegradable properties.

Another area of interest for potassium formate is its application in the textile industry. It is used as a dyeing auxiliary, helping to improve the uptake of dyes in various fabrics. Its ability to enhance color fastness and stability makes it a valuable additive in textile processing, contributing to the production of high-quality textile products.

In conclusion, potassium formate is a versatile chemical compound with a wide range of applications spanning multiple industries, including road maintenance, oil and gas, agriculture, food, and textiles. Its discovery has led to significant advancements in these fields, with its environmentally friendly properties making it an attractive alternative to more traditional compounds. Ongoing research continues to explore new potential uses for potassium formate, further solidifying its importance in both industrial and laboratory settings.

References

1964. IDENTITY OF THE PINK-PIGMENTED METHANOL-OXIDIZING BACTERIA AS VIBRIO EXTORQUENS. Journal of Bacteriology, 88(4).
DOI: 10.1128/jb.88.4.1065-1070.1964

2024. Influence of alkali metal formates and calcium formate on workability, hydration and basic properties of reactive powder concrete. Journal of Thermal Analysis and Calorimetry.
DOI: 10.1007/s10973-024-13703-6

2024. Molar-scale formate production via enzymatic hydration of industrial off-gases. Nature Chemical Engineering.
DOI: 10.1038/s44286-024-00063-z