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Send EmailCalcium Formate, Calcium Diformiate, 544-17-2
Calcium Formate / Calcium Diformate / Formic Acid Calcium Salt
CAS Number: 544-17-2
EC Number: 208-863-7
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name (IUPAC) | Calcium diformate |
| Other Names | Calcium formate, Calcium diformiate, Formic acid calcium salt |
| CAS Number | 544-17-2 |
| EC Number (EINECS) | 208-863-7 |
| Molecular Formula | C2H2CaO4 |
| Molecular Weight | 130.12 g/mol |
| Chemical Class | Organic carboxylate salt (metal formate) |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder or granules |
| Odor | Slight characteristic, non-acidic odor |
Calcium formate is the calcium salt of formic acid. It is an organic compound formed by the bonding of two formate ions (HCOO-) to one calcium cation (Ca2+). Due to its high water solubility and near-neutral pH, it finds widespread use in construction, leather, feed, and industrial chemical sectors. Its most important feature is that it accelerates cement setting without causing steel reinforcement corrosion, as it contains no chlorides. Additionally, in animal nutrition, it serves as an organic acid preservative that supports digestive system health.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | C2H2CaO4 |
| Molecular Weight | 130.12 g/mol |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder or free-flowing granules |
| Odor | Slight characteristic |
| Density | 2.2 g/cm3 (20°C) |
| Bulk Density | 700 – 900 kg/m3 |
| Melting Point | Decomposes at 300°C (no distinct melting point) |
| pH (10% aqueous solution, 20°C) | 6.0 – 8.0 |
| Water Solubility (20°C) | 160 g/L |
| Solubility in Organic Solvents | Slightly soluble in methanol and ethanol; insoluble in acetone |
| Hygroscopicity | Low; moderate sensitivity to moisture |
| LogP (Octanol/Water) | Negative (hydrophilic) |
| Toxicity (Oral LD50, Rat) | 5000 mg/kg |
Calcium formate has high solubility in water (approximately 160 g/L at 20°C) and its aqueous solution is in the neutral pH range. This property allows easy mixing and homogeneous distribution in cement mortars. When heated above 300°C, it decomposes into calcium carbonate, formaldehyde, and water vapor.
| Solvent | Solubility | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Water | 160 g/L | 20°C |
| Water | 200 g/L | 50°C |
| Methanol | Slightly soluble | 25°C |
| Ethanol | Slightly soluble | 25°C |
| Acetone | Insoluble | 25°C |
| Ether | Insoluble | 25°C |
Calcium formate is readily soluble in water but insoluble in most organic solvents. Its solubility in water increases significantly with rising temperature.
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Class | Organic salt (carboxylate) |
| Unique Structure | Contains two formate groups bonded to a calcium ion |
| Acid-Base Properties | Weakly basic salt in aqueous solution (pH 6-8) |
| Thermal Decomposition | Decomposes above 300°C into CaCO3, CH2O, and H2O |
| Oxidation Resistance | Reacts with strong oxidizers due to organic structure |
| Complex Formation | Can form stable complexes with metal ions |
| Incompatible Substances | Strong acids (releases formic acid), strong oxidizers |
Calcium formate has an ionic character as a metal salt. When dissolved in water, it dissociates into calcium (Ca2+) and formate (HCOO-) ions. Contact with strong acids yields formic acid and calcium salts. It is thermally stable and can be safely used in industrial processes.
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Purity (as Ca(HCOO)2 basis) | 98.0% |
| Moisture (Loss on Drying) | 0.5% |
| pH (10% aqueous solution, 20°C) | 6.0 – 8.0 |
| Calcium Oxide (CaO) Content | 30.5% |
| Free Formic Acid Content | 0.5% |
| Chloride (Cl-) | 0.05% |
| Sulfate (SO42-) | 0.1% |
| Heavy Metals (as Pb) | 10 ppm |
| Iron (Fe) | 20 ppm |
| Particle Size (standard) | 100% passes through 2 mm sieve |
| Appearance | White, free-flowing crystalline powder |
Technical grade Calcium formate is optimized for construction and industrial applications. Its low chloride content minimizes corrosion risk in reinforced concrete applications.
Calcium formate is widely used across various industries due to its low toxicity, chloride-free nature, and high solubility.
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Setting Accelerator | Reduces setting time in cement and mortars, particularly accelerating strength development in cold weather conditions. |
| Chloride-Free Anti-Freeze | Used safely as an alternative to corrosive additives such as calcium chloride. |
| Flowability Regulator | Improves workability of mortar and concrete. |
| Early Strength Additive | Reduces formwork removal time, especially in precast concrete elements. |
Calcium formate accelerates cement hydration by interacting with the C3A (tricalcium aluminate) phase, thereby increasing early strength gain of concrete.
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Neutralization Agent | Used to raise the pH of leather after chrome tanning. |
| Pre-Treatment for Fatliquoring | Prepares tanned leather for the fatliquoring process. |
| pH Buffer | Helps maintain the desired pH level in tanning baths. |
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Antibacterial Preservative | Inhibits the growth of pathogenic microorganisms, particularly in swine and poultry feeds. |
| Digestive Regulator | Supports intestinal flora and improves digestion. |
| Organic Acid Source | Acts as a source of formic acid in feeds, enhancing feed hygiene. |
| Performance Enhancer | Shown to improve weight gain and feed conversion ratios in animals. |
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Formic Acid Production | Evaluated as a formic acid source in recycling processes. |
| Buffer Solutions | Used as a pH stabilizer in industrial cleaning and dyeing processes. |
| Textile Printing | Acts as a fixative in textile printing dyes. |
| De-icing Agent | Used in non-corrosive aircraft and runway de-icing formulations. |
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Metabolism | Metabolized in the body to formic acid and subsequently to CO2 and water. |
| Calcium Source | Provides bioavailable calcium. |
| Antimicrobial Effect | Converts to formic acid at low pH, exhibiting bacteriostatic effects. |
| Absorption | Rapidly absorbed from the digestive tract and excreted via the kidneys. |
| Toxicity Profile | Low systemic toxicity; LC50 1000 mg/L (aquatic organisms) |
In animal nutrition, calcium formate hydrolyzes to formic acid in the digestive system. Formic acid penetrates bacterial cell membranes, lowering internal pH and inhibiting microbial growth. It also enhances digestive enzyme activity.
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Microbiology Studies | Used as a carbon and mineral source in bacterial cultures. |
| Enzyme Studies | Serves as a substrate in formate dehydrogenase enzyme studies. |
| Metabolomics | Used as a standard compound in organic acid metabolism research. |
| Bioremediation | Can be used for precipitation of heavy metal ions. |
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| GHS Classification | Not classified as hazardous |
| Oral LD50 (Rat) | 5000 mg/kg |
| Dermal LD50 | 2000 mg/kg (rabbit) |
| Skin Irritation | Not irritating |
| Eye Irritation | May cause mild irritation (in powder form) |
| Respiratory Irritation | Mild irritation upon inhalation of dust |
| Skin Sensitization | Negative |
| Mutagenicity | Negative |
| Carcinogenicity | Not classified |
| Bioaccumulation | Unlikely (LogP negative) |
| WGK (Germany Water Hazard Class) | 1 (slight hazard to water) |
| Ecotoxicity (Daphnia) | EC50 100 mg/L |
Calcium formate presents low risk to human health and the environment. However, prolonged exposure to dust may cause respiratory tract irritation. Dust masks and protective goggles are recommended for industrial use.
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| UN Number | Not applicable (not hazardous) |
| Hazard Class | Not classified as hazardous |
| Packing Group | Not applicable |
| Proper Shipping Name | Calcium formate |
| Marine Pollutant | No |
| ADR/RID Label | Not applicable |
| Transport Category | Category 0 (no restrictions) |
| Air Transport (IATA) | No restrictions |
Calcium formate is not classified as a dangerous good for international transport and can be safely shipped by road, sea, and air.
| Region | Status |
|---|---|
| EU (REACH) | Registered and commercialized |
| Turkey (KKDIK) | Mandatory compliance; registration process ongoing |
| USA (TSCA) | Listed |
| FDA Compliance | GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) as a feed additive |
| EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) | Approved as a feed additive |
| Turkish Food Codex | Permitted for use as a feed additive |
Calcium formate is regulated and approved as a feed additive and construction chemical in all major industrial markets, including the EU, USA, Turkey, Japan, and China.
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Storage Conditions | Cool, dry, and well-ventilated area; room temperature (15-25°C) |
| Container Requirements | Tightly closed original packaging (25 kg kraft bags) |
| Materials to Avoid | Strong acids, strong oxidizers |
| Shelf Life | 24 months (under proper storage) |
| Hygroscopicity | Low; however, prolonged exposure to moisture may cause caking and loss of flowability |
| Packaging Options | 25 kg bags, 500 kg big-bags, 1000 kg palletized shipment |
| Handling Notes | Avoid dust formation; use local exhaust ventilation; nitrile gloves and protective goggles recommended |
Handling Notes:
Use closed systems to prevent dust formation.
Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and respiratory tract.
Reseal packaging tightly after use to protect from moisture.
Recommended dosage in cement and mortars is typically 0.5-2.0% of cement weight.
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Fire Hazard | Not flammable, but decomposes at high temperatures |
| Extinguishing Media | Water spray, CO2, dry chemical powder, alcohol-resistant foam |
| Special Hazards | Thermal decomposition produces carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and calcium oxide fumes |
| Protective Equipment | Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), full protective clothing |
| Explosion Risk | Does not form explosive mixtures with air |
In case of fire, avoid inhaling decomposition products and use full protective equipment.
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Personal Protection | Dust mask, protective goggles, nitrile gloves, coverall |
| Ventilation | Increase ventilation; use local exhaust in confined spaces |
| Containment | Cover spilled area to prevent dust dispersion |
| Cleaning Methods | Collect dry using vacuum or careful sweeping; avoid washing with water (soluble) |
| Environmental Precautions | Prevent entry into drains, sewers, and water bodies |
| Waste Disposal | Dispose of as chemical waste in accordance with local regulations |
For large spills, keep the product dry, collect it, and place it in labeled containers for proper disposal.
| Route of Exposure | Action to Be Taken |
|---|---|
| Inhalation | Move person to fresh air. Administer oxygen if breathing difficulty occurs. Seek medical attention. |
| Skin Contact | Wash with plenty of soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing. If irritation persists, consult a physician. |
| Eye Contact | Rinse thoroughly with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Keep eyelids open. Remove contact lenses if present. Consult a physician. |
| Ingestion | Rinse mouth. Drink plenty of water. Do not induce vomiting. If unconscious, do not administer anything orally. Seek immediate medical attention. |
| General Note | If symptoms persist, always consult a healthcare facility. |
Although calcium formate has low toxicity, precautions should be taken in cases of dust inhalation, eye contact, or skin contact.
| Raw Material | Description |
|---|---|
| Formic Acid | Main chemical precursor |
| Calcium Hydroxide (Slaked Lime) | Calcium source |
| Calcium Carbonate (Limestone) | Alternative calcium source |
| Carbon Monoxide / Sodium Formate | By-products of formic acid production |
| Derivative | Application |
|---|---|
| Formic Acid (Recycling) | Acid source in the chemical industry |
| Calcium Carbonate | Result of thermal decomposition; industrial filler material |
| Calcium Complexes | Specialty chemicals and ion exchangers |
| Concrete Admixture Solutions | Liquid formulations for use in ready-mix concrete plants |
| Sector | Application Area | Example Use | Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Construction | Concrete and mortar admixture | Precast elements, cold-weather concrete | Very High |
| Leather | Tanning neutralization | pH adjustment of chrome-tanned leather | High |
| Feed | Antibacterial preservative | Swine and poultry feeds | High |
| Chemicals | Buffer and reaction aid | Industrial cleaning products | Suitable |
| Agriculture | Silage preservative | Limited use | Limited |
| Textiles | Printing fixative | Fabric dyeing processes | Suitable |
Calcium formate is also being evaluated in some industrial processes as a carbon dioxide (CO2) capture agent. In aqueous solutions, calcium ions can bind CO2 by forming carbonate and bicarbonate compounds. This property is being researched, particularly in closed-loop carbon capture systems. However, this application is more niche and experimental compared to the construction and feed sectors.
| Compound | Description |
|---|---|
| Sodium Formate | Sodium-based formate salt with similar structure |
| Potassium Formate | Used in liquid de-icing formulations |
| Calcium Lactate | Another organic calcium salt used as food and feed additive |
| Calcium Acetate | Alternative salt used in construction and food sectors |
| Formic Acid | Acidic form of calcium formate; preservative and pH regulator |
| Calcium Formate (Anhydrous) | Moisture-free form for special applications |
SUMMARY:
Calcium formate (C2H2CaO4, CAS 544-17-2) is the calcium salt of formic acid and appears as a white crystalline powder. Its molecular weight is 130.12 g/mol, water solubility at 20°C is approximately 160 g/L, and its aqueous solution has a neutral pH (6-8). It decomposes at 300°C. Its most significant advantage is that it accelerates cement setting without causing corrosion of steel reinforcement due to its chloride-free nature. This makes it an indispensable additive in the construction sector. It is also widely used as a neutralization agent in leather tanning, as an antibacterial preservative in animal nutrition, and as a buffering agent in industrial processes. Its low toxicity, high biodegradability, and environmentally friendly profile make it a safe chemical.
KEY PROPERTIES (Summary Table):
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White crystalline powder or granules |
| Chemical Formula | C2H2CaO4 |
| Molecular Weight | 130.12 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 544-17-2 |
| Melting Point | Decomposes at 300°C |
| Water Solubility (20°C) | 160 g/L |
| pH (10% aqueous solution) | 6.0 – 8.0 |
| Purity | 98% |
| Primary Use | Concrete setting accelerator, feed preservative, leather neutralization |
MAIN APPLICATION AREAS:
| Sector | Applications |
|---|---|
| Construction | Setting accelerator, early strength additive, chloride-free anti-freeze |
| Leather | Post-chrome neutralization and pre-fatliquoring preparation |
| Feed | Antibacterial preservative, digestive regulator, performance enhancer |
| Chemicals | Buffer solutions, formic acid source, textile printing fixative |
KEY SAFETY POINTS:
Low toxicity: Not classified as hazardous; LD50 5000 mg/kg.
Non-irritating: No skin irritation; mild eye irritation possible in powder form.
Non-mutagenic/non-carcinogenic: No carcinogenic classification.
Storage: 15-25°C, cool, dry, tightly closed, away from moisture.
PPE recommended: Dust mask (P2), protective goggles, nitrile gloves.
Incompatibility: Do not contact with strong acids and oxidizers.
Environment: WGK 1 (slight hazard to water); no bioaccumulation.
CRITICAL NOTICES:
Chloride-free nature: Calcium formate is a safe alternative to corrosive additives such as calcium chloride. It is therefore preferred in reinforced concrete structures and steel-reinforced precast elements.
Early strength: Particularly in winter concreting, it can reduce setting time by 30-50% at low temperatures (+5°C to -5°C).
Feed additive approval: Approved as a feed additive by the European Union (EFSA), USA (FDA), and Turkey (TKG). Clinically shown to reduce diarrhea incidence in swine feeds.
Water solubility: High water solubility provides homogeneous distribution in concrete mixtures and ease of use in liquid formulations.
Shelf life: Can be stored for 24 months in original packaging under dry conditions. Exposure to moisture may cause caking and loss of flowability.
Dosage information: Used at 0.5-2.0% of cement weight in concrete. Must be optimized through concrete trials prior to use.
Important Disclaimer: This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only. The information provided is based on available data and is believed to be accurate. However, the user is solely responsible for determining the suitability of the product for their specific applications and for complying with all applicable regulations and safety requirements. For complete safety, handling, storage, and regulatory compliance information, always refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier. Users are obligated to test the product in their own processes and applications. All local, national, and international occupational health and safety regulations must be followed when working with calcium formate.