Physical Properties:

It is a colourless liquid with a pungent odour and has a sour taste. It is corrosive and is miscible in acetone, methanol, ether, ethyl acetate, ethanol, and ether. It is partially soluble in benzene, xylenes, and toluene. It occurs naturally in some insects, such as bees and ants.

Application:

Manufacturers and researchers in the industrial sector keep coming up with new ideas for using formic acid. At present, this organic compound is used as:

1. an intermediate for cleaning, tanning or acidifying preparations,
2. a cleaner used to clear different types of industrial installations,
3. an additive for greases,
4. an ingredient of medicines for rheumatism or vasoconstricting medicines,
5. an additive for animal feeds and fungicides,
6. an ingredient of cosmetics for body care and regeneration.