Sodium Formate

Brief Overview

Sodium formate HCOONa, also known as sodium methanoate, is the sodium salt of formic acid. It is a white, water-soluble crystalline powder with hygroscopic properties. Sodium formate is widely used in various industries, including leather tanning, oil drilling, de-icing, and as a reducing agent in chemical processes. In the leather industry, it is commonly used to reduce hexavalent chromium (Cr⁶⁺) to trivalent chromium (Cr³⁺), making it safer for environmental discharge.  

Manufacturing Process

Method 1: Reaction of Formic Acid with Sodium Hydroxide  
Sodium formate is typically produced by neutralizing formic acid (HCOOH) with sodium hydroxide (NaOH) or sodium carbonate (Na₂CO₃):  

HCOOH + NaOH → HCOONa + H₂O

HCOOH + Na₂CO₃ → 2HCOONa + CO₂ + H₂O

This method results in high-purity sodium formate and is widely used in commercial production.  

Method 2: By-Product of Pentaerythritol Production*
Sodium formate is also obtained as a by-product in the manufacturing of pentaerythritol,  a key ingredient in alkyd resins and explosives. The process involves reacting formaldehyde with sodium hydroxid in the presence of excess methanol, yielding sodium formate as a secondary product.  

Leather Industry

This additive is used to stabilize chromium during the leather tanning process. By enhancing the penetration of chromium into the hide, it reduces the overall tanning time and improves the uniformity and durability of the final leather product. 

Textile and Dying

Sodium formate is employed in the textile industry to improve brightness and color in dyeing/printing fabrics and paper.                 Anti-Frosting Agent
Sodium Formate is a product designed for use when products such as calcium chloride  or urea will harm the surrounding environment. Sodium Formate has an extended residual anti-icing effect in extreme weather conditions in addition to a fast-acting initial burn off rate. Can be applied using conventional spreaders and also works great with pre-wet.