The Chemical Profile: Understanding Calcium Formate Properties
For professionals in chemical formulation, research and development, and procurement, a deep understanding of a compound's chemical properties is fundamental. Calcium Formate (CAS 544-17-2) is a white, crystalline organic salt with a profile that lends itself to a diverse array of industrial applications. As a dedicated manufacturer and supplier, we provide high-quality Calcium Formate and believe in empowering our clients with comprehensive product knowledge.
Chemical Structure and Formula: Calcium Formate, also known as calcium diformate or formic acid calcium salt, has the molecular formula C2H2CaO4. Its chemical structure consists of a calcium cation (Ca²⁺) and two formate anions (HCOO⁻). This ionic nature contributes to its solubility and reactivity.
Physical Appearance and Solubility: Typically, Calcium Formate presents as a white to off-white crystalline powder or granules. It is moderately soluble in water, with solubility increasing with temperature. At 20°C, its solubility is approximately 16g per 100mL of water. It is largely insoluble in ethanol and other organic solvents.
Key Specifications and Purity: Reputable manufacturers, including ourselves, ensure that our Calcium Formate meets stringent specifications. Common parameters include:
- Purity: Generally 98% or 99% minimum.
- Calcium Content: Typically around 30.1% minimum.
- Moisture: Usually limited to 0.5% maximum.
- Water Insolubles: Generally below 0.5%.
- pH (10% solution): Ranges from 5.0 to 7.5, indicating a slightly acidic to neutral solution.
- Heavy Metals: Low limits for elements like lead (Pb) and arsenic (As), crucial for feed and food-grade applications.
Stability and Reactivity: Calcium Formate is relatively stable under normal storage conditions. However, it decomposes upon strong heating, typically above 300°C, yielding calcium carbonate and formaldehyde. Its reactivity is leveraged in applications like cement acceleration, where it influences hydration kinetics, and in chemical synthesis as a potential reducing agent or precursor.
Safety Profile: While generally considered to have low toxicity, Calcium Formate can be an irritant to the eyes and skin. Appropriate handling precautions, including wearing personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and eye protection, are always recommended. Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) provide detailed information on safe handling, storage, and emergency procedures.
Understanding these chemical and physical properties is vital for effective utilization. If you are looking to buy Calcium Formate or require detailed specifications for your industrial needs, our team as a leading Chinese manufacturer is ready to assist. Contact us for technical data and quotation.
Perspectives & Insights
Alpha Spark Labs
“Stability and Reactivity: Calcium Formate is relatively stable under normal storage conditions.”
Future Pioneer 88
“However, it decomposes upon strong heating, typically above 300°C, yielding calcium carbonate and formaldehyde.”
Core Explorer Pro
“Its reactivity is leveraged in applications like cement acceleration, where it influences hydration kinetics, and in chemical synthesis as a potential reducing agent or precursor.”