Oxalic Acid: A Guide to Properties, Industrial Applications, and Safety
Oxalic acid, systematically known as ethanedioic acid (IUPAC name), is one of the most versatile and essential organic compounds in the modern chemical industry. With the chemical formula H₂C₂O₄, this dicarboxylic acid serves as a fundamental building block in everything from industrial cleaning agents to pharmaceutical synthesis.
At Chemicals Suppliers, we are dedicated to providing high-purity chemical solutions to businesses and researchers worldwide. Whether you are looking for technical-grade oxalic acid for metal treatment or analytical-grade reagents for research, understanding the chemistry behind this substance is the first step toward effective utilization.
Oxalic acid is a crystalline, colorless solid that dissolves readily in water to form a colorless solution. It is significantly stronger than acetic acid and is recognized for its ability to act as a powerful reducing agent and a chelating agent.
To navigate the global chemical market, it is essential to be familiar with the various names for this compound:
Oxalic acid is the gold standard for rust removal. Because it reacts with iron oxide (rust) to form a water-soluble complex (ferric oxalate), it is widely used in:
In the textile industry, oxalic acid acts as a mordant in dyeing processes. It ensures that dyes adhere to fabrics more effectively, providing colorfastness and durability. In leather tanning, it helps in the bleaching process to achieve desired coloration.
One of the most rapidly growing applications for organic-grade oxalic acid is the management of Varroa destructor mites in honeybee colonies. It is an environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic pesticides.
Due to its well-defined crystalline structure and purity, it is used as a primary standard in volumetry (titrations), particularly in the standardization of potassium permanganate solutions.
Oxalic acid is toxic if ingested and can cause severe skin and eye irritation.
For detailed safety protocols, refer to the PubChem Oxalic Acid Safety Guideline.
At Chemicals Suppliers, we offer a wide range of industrial-grade chemicals. Below is a curated list of related chemical compounds often purchased alongside Oxalic Acid.
| Chemical Name | Common Use | Typical Price (USD/kg) |
|---|---|---|
| Citric Acid | Descaling/Food additive | $2.50 – $4.00 |
| Acetic Acid (Glacial) | Solvent/Textile | $1.50 – $3.00 |
| Formic Acid | Tanning/Silage | $2.00 – $3.50 |
| Nitric Acid | Etching/Metal treatment | $3.00 – $5.00 |
| Hydrochloric Acid | pH control/Masonry | $1.00 – $2.50 |
| Sulfuric Acid | Industrial catalyst | $1.20 – $2.80 |
| Sodium Hydroxide | Cleaning/Saponification | $1.50 – $3.00 |
| Phosphoric Acid | Rust prevention | $2.50 – $4.50 |
| EDTA Disodium | Chelating agent | $4.00 – $7.00 |
| Potassium Permanganate | Oxidizer | $6.00 – $10.00 |
| … (List continues for 50+ items including Sodium Bicarbonate, Boric Acid, Hydrogen Peroxide, etc.) | … | … |
Note: Prices fluctuate based on market availability, purity grades (Technical/Analytical), and bulk volume. Please visit Chemicals Suppliers to receive a custom quote.
For our international clients, here are the search terms for Oxalic Acid in various languages to assist in sourcing:
Oxalic acid is an indispensable tool in modern industry, from cleaning the most resilient rust to protecting our global honeybee populations. By choosing a reputable supplier, you ensure the safety, efficiency, and quality of your industrial processes.
Ready to place an order or need a technical consultation? Visit our website at https://www.chemicalssuppliers.com/ and explore our extensive catalog of chemicals today.