Ammonium formate
Ammonium formate (CAS: 540-69-2), with the chemical formula HCO2NH4 and a molecular weight of 63.06 g/mol, is an inorganic salt. It presents as a clear, colorless aqueous solution. This compound is primarily utilized as a buffer in biochemical and chemical synthesis applications. Its solubility in water and specific pH range make it a valuable reagent for various laboratory procedures.
- IUPAC
- Formic acid ammonium salt
- Synonyms
- Formic acid ammonium saltFormate d'ammonium

Buffer in Biochemistry
Ammonium formate serves as a common buffer in various biochemical processes, particularly in chromatography techniques like HPLC. Its ability to maintain a stable pH is crucial for the separation and analysis of biomolecules.
Reducing Agent in Organic Synthesis
It acts as a mild and selective reducing agent in organic synthesis, often employed in hydrogenation reactions. This application is vital for the controlled transformation of functional groups in complex molecules.
Chemical Synthesis Reagent
As a versatile chemical synthesis reagent, ammonium formate is used in the preparation of other organic and inorganic compounds. Its reactivity profile allows for its incorporation into diverse synthetic pathways.
Ammonium Salt Source
It functions as a source of ammonium ions in various chemical reactions and formulations. This property is essential in applications requiring the introduction of ammonium into a system.
| Molecular weight | 63.06 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | HCO2NH4 |
| Assay | 96% |
| Grade | purum |
| Density | 1.26 g/mL at 25 °C(lit.) |
| Solubility | H2O: soluble10 M at 20 °C, clear, colorless |
| pH | 6.0-7.0 (25 °C, 50 mg/mL in H2O) |
| Melting point | 119-121 °C(lit.) |
| Concentration | 10 M in H2O |
| Impurities tested | ≤3% water |

Hazard statements
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
Precautionary statements
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Gloves |
|---|---|
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 1 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | Xi |
| Risk statements (R) | 36/37/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-36 |
| Cation traces | Ca: ≤50 mg/kgCd: ≤50 mg/kgCo: ≤50 mg/kgCu: ≤50 mg/kgFe: ≤50 mg/kgK: ≤200 mg/kgNa: ≤100 mg/kgNi: ≤50 mg/kgPb: ≤50 mg/kgZn: ≤50 mg/kg |
| Anion traces | chloride (Cl-): ≤50 mg/kgsulfate (SO42-): ≤100 mg/kg |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
| Uv Absorption | λ: 260 nm Amax: 0.05λ: 280 nm Amax: 0.04 |
|---|---|
| Ign Residue 900 °C | ≤0.1% (as SO4) |
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is ammonium formate used for?
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Ammonium formate is primarily used as a buffer in biochemical applications, such as chromatography, and as a reducing agent in organic synthesis. It also serves as a general chemical synthesis reagent and a source of ammonium ions.
What is the CAS number and chemical formula for ammonium formate?
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The CAS number for ammonium formate is 540-69-2, and its chemical formula is HCO2NH4.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies ammonium formate in 'purum' grade with an assay of 96%. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade.
How should ammonium formate be handled?
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Ammonium formate can cause skin irritation (H315), serious eye irritation (H319), and may cause respiratory irritation (H335). Use with adequate ventilation, wear protective equipment including a dust mask (type N95), eyeshields, and gloves.
How is ammonium formate packed and exported?
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Ammonium formate is carefully packed to ensure stability during transit and is exported globally by Tech Serve Solutions. Specific packaging details are available upon request.
How can I request a quote or sample for ammonium formate?
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To request a quote or sample for ammonium formate, please contact our sales team through the website or by phone.
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