Calcium Formate

Calcium Formate for Accelerated Construction Cement Hydration, Enhanced Livestock Nutrition, and Professional Leather Tanning Processes Available for Industrial Supply Across the UK

Chemical Properties and Technical Specifications

Calcium Formate (CAS No. 544-17-2) is the calcium salt of formic acid, characterized as a free-flowing, white crystalline powder. It is chemically valued for its high calcium content and its dual function as both a setting accelerator and a pH regulator. Highly soluble in water and virtually odorless, it remains stable in dry storage environments. This compound is a highly efficient early-strength agent that facilitates rapid hardening in cementitious materials, even at low temperatures, making it a critical reagent for year-round industrial manufacturing and construction.

Construction Materials and Agricultural Nutrition

In the construction sector, Calcium Formate is a standard additive for dry-mix mortars, tile adhesives, and self-levelling compounds. It significantly reduces curing times and prevents the formation of efflorescence on concrete surfaces. Within the agricultural industry, it serves as a bioavailable calcium source and an acidifier in animal feed, particularly for swine and poultry. It promotes gut health by inhibiting pathogenic microbial growth and improving nutrient absorption, making it a sustainable alternative to traditional growth promoters.

Leather Processing and Environmental Utility

The leather industry utilizes this compound as a masking agent in chrome tanning, where it ensures deeper and more uniform penetration of tanning salts into hides. It also finds application as a non-corrosive de-icing agent for sensitive surfaces like airport runways, as it is far less damaging to metal and concrete than traditional chlorides. Additionally, it is employed in flue gas desulfurization to neutralize sulfur oxides and in the manufacture of gypsum board as a fire retardant.

Key Product Features

• Rapid Setting: Accelerates cement hydration and early strength development by up to 30%.
• Feed Safety: EU-approved preservative and acidifier for livestock gut health and nutrition.
• Superior Tanning: Enhances chromium absorption and color uniformity in leather processing.
• Non-Corrosive De-Icer: Environmentally friendly alternative to salt for sensitive infrastructure.
• Trade Availability: Supplied in industrial-standard 25kg bags for manufacturing and distribution.