Propanoic acid, also known as oleic acid, is a short-chain saturated fatty acid with the chemical formula CH3CH2COOH, a molecular weight of 74.08, and a covalent bond number of 1 [9]. Propanoic acid is a weak electrolyte (pKa=4.87, 25℃) [5]. Its aqueous solution is weakly acidic, but highly corrosive, and its vapor is irritating to the skin and respiratory tract. At room temperature and pressure, propanoic acid is a colorless, clear, oily liquid with an unpleasant rancid odor. Its melting point is −24-−23 °C, boiling point is 141.7±3.0 °C, and flash point is 51.7±0.0 °C. It is miscible with water, ethanol, chloroform, and ether. Its vapor can form an explosive mixture with air. It should be stored in a cool, ventilated place, away from fire and isolated from oxidizers.

CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

PRODUCT USAGE

In the leather and textile industries, it is used as a tanning agent, neutralizing agent, and dyeing auxiliary, helping to adjust pH and improve dye adhesion. In the rubber industry, formic acid can be used for latex coagulation. In agriculture, it is added to silage as a preservative to inhibit mold and bacterial growth, extending the storage life of animal feed. In the pharmaceutical and chemical industries, it is an important intermediate for synthesizing sulfa drugs, formates, and formate esters. Additionally, formic acid is used for metal surface cleaning, rust removal, and as a component of environmentally friendly deicing agents.