Ammonium formate

Ammonium formate (CAS 540-69-2), commonly abbreviated HCOONH4, is the ammonium salt of formic acid.

Where is Ammonium formate used?

• Pharmaceutical manufacturing: standard additive in HPLC and LC-MS mobile phases to improve peak resolution
• Analytical method development: enhances ionization efficiency
• Catalytic hydrogen donor in transfer hydrogenation reactions, enabling selective reduction of organic compounds without high-pressure hydrogen gas
• Food-grade applications: preservative and pH-regulating agent in certain processed food systems
• Personal care formulations: supports buffering and stability where controlled acidity is critical
• It functions primarily as a pH buffer and mobile phase reagent.
• Used in the Leuckart reaction for reductive amination of aldehydes and ketones.

Typical specification

• A 10% solution has a pH between 5.5 and 7.5.
• Available in AR/GR grade.
• Supplied in the form of crystals and granules.
• A grade intended for LC-MS applications is available.

Regulatory status

• Harmonized system (HS) customs code: 29151200.
• WGK Germany classification 1.

Storage, packaging and handling

• Store at +15 °C to +30 °C.
• Keep in closed packaging to avoid moisture, contamination, and contact with incompatible materials.

Frequently asked questions about Ammonium formate

What is the minimum purity of ammonium formate?

Ammonium formate has a purity of 97% or higher.

Technical content is compiled and updated by the SoleChem product team from public technical sources; the certificate of analysis (COA) governs product-specific specifications.