Oxalic Acid

Oxalic acid is an organic compound found in many plants. These include leafy greens, vegetables, fruits, cocoa, nuts and seeds. In plants, it's usually bound to minerals, forming oxalate. The terms “oxalic acid” and “oxalate” are used interchangeably in nutrition science. Its acid strength is much greater than that of acetic acid. Oxalic acid is a reducing agent and its conjugate base, is a chelating agent for metal cations.

Synonyms
Ethanedioic acid, Wood bleach, Dicarboxylic Acid, Ethanedionic Acid, Ethanedoic Acid, Oxalic Acid, Oxalic Acid Dihydrate
Chemical Formula
C₂H₂O₄
CAS Number
144-62-7

Characteristics

Molar Weight
90.03 g/mol
Melting Point
189 to 191 °C
Density
1.6 - 1.7
Forms
Powder, White

Uses and Applications

Key applications

  • Dyes
  • Metal working
  • Cleaning products
  • Reducing agent
  • Household industrial
  • Bleaching agent

Industries

  • Cleaning
  • Chemical Processing