Calcium formate is a chemical compound that plays a vital role across several industries, most notably in construction, but also extending to animal feed and leather processing. As a versatile additive, it offers a unique set of properties that enhance performance and efficiency. This article provides a detailed look at calcium formate, covering its fundamental properties, its various applications, and essential guidance on where and how to purchase it effectively.

Key Properties of Calcium Formate:
Calcium formate, with the chemical formula Ca(HCOO)₂, possesses several characteristics that make it valuable for industrial use:



  • Appearance: It typically appears as a white, crystalline powder or granules.
  • Solubility: Calcium formate is soluble in water, facilitating its incorporation into various mixtures.
  • pH: When dissolved in water, it forms a neutral to mildly alkaline solution.
  • Stability: It is relatively stable under normal storage conditions, though it is slightly hygroscopic.
  • Non-toxic: Generally considered non-toxic, making it safe for handling in industrial settings and suitable for feed applications.
  • Melting Point: It decomposes at high temperatures, typically around 300°C, rather than melting.



Diverse Applications of Calcium Formate:

1. Construction Industry: This is the most prominent application. Calcium formate acts as an early strength agent for cement and concrete. It accelerates the hydration process, leading to faster setting times and increased early strength. This is particularly beneficial for:

  • Cold-weather concreting: It prevents freezing damage and ensures adequate strength development in low temperatures.
  • Dry-mix mortars and tile adhesives: It improves workability, setting time, and adhesion.
  • Concrete repair: Its rapid strength gain is ideal for quick repairs, minimizing downtime.
  • High-strength concrete: It aids in achieving the necessary early strength for demanding structural applications.



2. Animal Feed Additive: In agriculture, calcium formate is used to preserve animal feed and improve gut health. It acidifies feed, preventing microbial growth and enhancing nutrient absorption in livestock, especially pigs and poultry.



3. Leather Tanning: It serves as a masking agent in chrome tanning, promoting better penetration of tanning agents and improving the quality of the final leather product.



4. Chemical Intermediate: Calcium formate can also be used as a precursor in the synthesis of other chemical compounds.



Where to Buy Calcium Formate:
Given its widespread use, calcium formate is readily available from various chemical suppliers and manufacturers globally. When you consider where to buy calcium formate, it's advisable to look for reputable suppliers who can offer industrial-grade products with consistent quality. China is a significant producer and exporter of calcium formate, offering competitive pricing and reliable supply chains.

Tips for Purchasing:

  • Purity: Ensure the product meets the required purity standards for your intended application (e.g., 98% or higher for construction).
  • Particle Size: The physical form (powder or granules) can affect its dispersion.
  • Supplier Reliability: Choose suppliers with a proven track record for quality and timely delivery.
  • Packaging: Standard packaging is usually in 25kg or 1000kg bags.


If you are looking to purchase calcium formate, researching manufacturers and distributors online is a good starting point. Many companies provide detailed product information and quotation request forms on their websites. Buying calcium formate in bulk can often lead to cost savings.



In conclusion, calcium formate is a highly versatile and essential chemical additive. Its ability to accelerate cement hydration, improve feed preservation, and enhance leather tanning makes it a valuable commodity across multiple industries. By understanding its properties and applications, and by sourcing it from reliable providers, businesses can effectively leverage calcium formate to optimize their processes and products.