Ammonium Formate 97%

Ammonium formate (NH₄HCO₂) is a versatile chemical compound with a range of applications, primarily stemming from its properties as the ammonium salt of formic acid. Here's a more detailed description:

Chemical Properties:

• Appearance:
  • It typically presents as a colorless, crystalline solid.
  • It is hygroscopic, meaning it readily absorbs moisture from the air.
• Solubility:
  • It is highly soluble in water.
• Decomposition:
  • When heated, ammonium formate decomposes. This decomposition can produce various products, including formamide, and under more intense heating, can produce hazardous gases.
• Chemical Formula:
  • NH₄HCO₂
• Molar Mass:
  • 63.06 g/mol.

Key Applications:

• Chromatography:
  • Ammonium formate is widely used as a buffer in high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC/MS). Its volatility makes it particularly suitable for mass spectrometry applications.
• Organic Synthesis:
  • It plays a significant role in organic synthesis, notably in:
    • Reductive amination: It serves as a source of hydrogen in reduction reactions, particularly in the Leuckart reaction, used to convert aldehydes and ketones to amines.
    • Formylation: It can act as a formylating agent, introducing a formyl group (-CHO) into organic molecules.
• Other Uses:
  • It can be used as a source of formic acid.
  • It is used in the deprotection of N-benzyl groups.

Safety Considerations:

• Ammonium formate can cause eye irritation.
• Appropriate handling procedures and personal protective equipment should be used.