Basic Information
Formic Acid Feed Grade Structure
Chemical Name | : Formic Acid |
Common Names | : Methanoic Acid, Hydrogen Carboxylic Acid, Aminic Acid |
CAS Number | : 64-18-6 |
Molecular Formula | : HCOOH (CH₂O₂) |
Molecular Weight | : 46.03 g/mol |
HS Code | : 2915.11 |
Grade | : Feed Grade |
Description
Formic Acid Feed Grade is the simplest carboxylic acid, naturally occurring in the venom of ants and in various fruits. In the animal feed industry, it is widely used as an antimicrobial preservative and acidulant due to its potent activity against a broad spectrum of bacteria, molds, and yeasts.
When added to animal feed or drinking water, formic acid lowers the pH of the gastrointestinal tract, creating an unfavorable environment for pathogenic microorganisms such as Salmonella, E. coli, and Campylobacter. This improves feed hygiene, extends shelf life, and promotes better nutrient absorption by the animal.
Formic acid feed grade is a clear, colorless liquid with a pungent odor, available in concentrations typically ranging from 85% to 99%. It is used either in pure form or in blended acid formulations tailored for specific species and production stages.
Chemical and Physical Properties
Appearance | : Clear, colorless liquid |
Odor | : Pungent, characteristic |
Boiling Point | : 100.8 °C |
Melting Point | : 8.4 °C |
Density | : 1.22 g/cm³ (at 20 °C) |
Solubility in Water | : Miscible in all proportions |
pH (1% solution) | : ~2.3 |
pKa | : 3.75 |
Purity (Feed Grade) | : ≥ 85% |
Flash Point | : 69 °C (closed cup) |
Uses and Manufacturing
Uses
Feed Preservation: Prevents mold and bacterial growth in silage, compound feed, and raw materials, extending shelf life and maintaining nutritional quality.
Drinking Water Acidification: Added to poultry and swine drinking water to reduce microbial load and improve gut health.
Salmonella Control: Effective in reducing Salmonella contamination in feed, supporting food safety from farm to fork.
Digestibility Enhancement: Lowers stomach pH in young animals (piglets, chicks), aiding protein digestion and improving feed conversion ratio.
Silage Production: Used as a silage additive to rapidly lower pH and preserve fermentation quality.
Methods of Manufacturing
Formic acid is produced industrially via the methyl formate process: carbon monoxide reacts with methanol under pressure to form methyl formate, which is then hydrolyzed to yield formic acid and methanol. The methanol is recycled. An alternative route involves the oxidation of formaldehyde. Feed-grade product undergoes additional purification and quality testing to meet regulatory standards.
Hazard Identification
Hazard Summary
Formic acid is a corrosive substance and must be handled with appropriate care.
GHS Classification
Flammable liquid (Cat. 4); Acute toxicity oral (Cat. 4); Skin corrosion (Cat. 1A); Serious eye damage (Cat. 1).
Signal Word
Danger
Hazard Statements
H227 – Combustible liquid H302 – Harmful if swallowed H314 – Causes severe skin burns and eye damage H331 – Toxic if inhaled
Inhalation
Vapors are irritating to the respiratory tract; high concentrations may cause pulmonary edema.
Skin Contact
Causes corrosive burns; prolonged contact may result in severe tissue damage.
Eye Contact
Causes serious, potentially irreversible damage to the eyes.
Safety and First Aid
First Aid Measures
Inhalation
Immediately move to fresh air. If breathing is difficult, administer oxygen. Seek emergency medical attention immediately.
Skin Contact
Remove contaminated clothing immediately. Flush skin with large amounts of water for at least 20 minutes. Do not neutralize chemically. Seek urgent medical attention for burns.
Eye Contact
Immediately flush eyes with large quantities of water for at least 20 minutes, keeping eyelids open. Seek immediate medical attention; risk of permanent eye damage.
Ingestion
Do not induce vomiting. Rinse mouth and drink 1–2 glasses of water. Seek immediate medical attention.
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Acid-resistant gloves (e.g., neoprene or butyl rubber)
Chemical splash goggles and face shield
Acid-resistant apron and full body protection
Respiratory protection (half-mask respirator with organic vapor/acid gas cartridge) in poorly ventilated areas
Handling and Storage
Handling
Handle only in well-ventilated areas or under local exhaust ventilation to control vapor exposure.
Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing. Use full PPE at all times during handling.
Keep away from heat sources, sparks, and open flames due to combustibility.
Use acid-resistant equipment (polyethylene, polypropylene, or stainless steel); avoid aluminum, zinc, and copper fittings.
Do not mix with strong oxidizing agents, strong bases, or reactive metals.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated location, away from heat sources and direct sunlight.
Keep in tightly closed, corrosion-resistant containers (polyethylene, stainless steel).
Separate from incompatible materials: strong oxidizers, bases, and reducing agents.
Recommended storage temperature: 10 – 30 °C.
Shelf life: 24 months from date of manufacture under recommended storage conditions.