Method for isolating of formic acid from a reaction mixture

Simple SummaryContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

This patent describes a method for isolating formic acid from a reaction mixture that also contains a specific polyoxometalate ion used as a catalyst. The process involves extracting formic acid using a linear primary or secondary alcohol (with 5–12 carbon atoms) or a formate ester of such an alcohol, in a protic (typically aqueous) solvent. This extraction method allows the efficient separation of formic acid without deactivating or extracting the catalyst, facilitating continuous or in-situ recovery of formic acid during its production from renewable or waste feedstocks.

Use CasesContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Industrial production of formic acid from biomass or renewable organic materials.
• Purification of formic acid produced via catalytic oxidation in chemical plants.
• In-situ extraction of formic acid in processes where catalyst retention and activity are important.
• Efficient recovery of formic acid from waste streams in paper, wood, or agricultural industries.
• Processes where separation of formic acid without catalyst loss is economically or environmentally important.

BenefitsContent extracted from patent full text and abstract with AI.

• Enables selective extraction of formic acid without inactivating or removing the catalyst.
• Allows continuous or in-situ extraction of formic acid under favorable reaction conditions.
• Compatible with biomass, waste, or renewable feedstocks, supporting green chemistry and sustainability goals.
• Reduces process complexity compared to traditional distillation or extractive distillation methods.
• Improves yield and selectivity for formic acid, enhancing process efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Facilitates recycling of extraction agents (alcohols or esters), lowering operational costs and waste.

Technical Classifications (CPCs)

Inventors & Applicants

Patent Abstract

The invention relates to a method for separating formic acid from a reaction mixture which comprises, in addition to formic acid, a polyoxometalate ion of general formula [PMoxVyO40]n-, where 6 ≤ x ≤ 11, 1 ≤ y ≤ 6, x + y = 12 and 3