Formic Acid — properties & hazards overview
Boiling point
≈ 100–101 °C (anhydrous)
pKa (25 °C)
≈ 3.75
Vapour pressure (20 °C)
≈ 5–6 kPa (indicative)
Water solubility
Miscible (very high)
Toxicity
resp. irritant
Corrosivity
skin/eye burns
Flammability
combustible
Environmental
acidic effluent
| Property | Value / Note |
|---|---|
| Appearance / odour | Colourless liquid; sharp, pungent odour |
| Density (20 °C) | ≈ 1.22 g/cm³ (anhydrous) |
| Solubility | Fully miscible with water; forms strong acidic solutions |
| Decomposition | At elevated T can form CO and CO₂; avoid hot surfaces |
| Typical sources | Chemical synthesis, leather/textile, preservatives, fermentation off-gas |
*Values are indicative. Always verify exact data for your specific concentration via current SDS/regulations.