Formic acid’s versatility is showcased through its broad spectrum of applications across agriculture, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and more.

In agriculture, it is primarily used as a feed additive to preserve silage and animal feed by lowering pH and inhibiting microbial growth. This preserves feed quality and reduces spoilage, ultimately improving livestock health and productivity. Additionally, formic acid is a component in some pesticides and herbicides, contributing to crop protection.

In textiles, formic acid acts as a dye fixative, enhancing color fastness on fibers such as wool, cotton, and synthetics. Its mild acidity helps improve dye uptake and reduces the need for harsh chemicals, supporting eco-friendly fabric finishing processes.

Pharmaceutical applications include use as a chemical intermediate in the synthesis of various drugs and active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs). Formic acid’s reducing properties and its ability to act as a solvent or reagent make it valuable in producing antibiotics, vitamins, and other medicinal compounds.

The chemical also finds use in leather tanning, rubber processing, cleaning agents, and as a coagulant in the production of rubber latex.