Formic acid (HCOOH) is a highly adaptable chemical used across multiple industries such as pharmaceuticals, rubber processing, leather tanning, and agriculture. However, the application of formic acid depends heavily on its grade and purity. These differences are defined by international standards including USP (United States Pharmacopeia), EP (European Pharmacopoeia), and ISO (International Organization for Standardization). In Singapore’s regulatory and trade context, understanding these standards is essential for ensuring proper compliance, safe application, and quality assurance.

 

Understanding the Standards

The USP standard is widely accepted in the United States and in many pharmaceutical markets globally. For formic acid to meet USP requirements, it must have a minimum purity of 95% and pass tests for identity, acidity, chlorides, sulfates, and heavy metals. It is primarily used in the production of injectables, disinfectants, and as a pH adjuster or excipient in pharmaceuticals. Documentation such as a Certificate of Analysis (CoA), Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certificates, and test results are mandatory when importing or distributing USP-grade formic acid.

Meanwhile, the EP standard, governed by the European Directorate for the Quality of Medicines (EDQM), outlines even more stringent controls on contaminants such as formaldehyde and microbial levels. It is essential for any pharmaceutical manufacturer targeting the European market. EP-compliant formic acid is commonly used in sterile solutions, vaccines, and other biologics. Similar to USP, a CoA and production data must accompany the shipment.

On the other hand, ISO standards apply mostly to technical or industrial-grade formic acid. These grades are commonly used in non-pharmaceutical applications such as rubber coagulation, leather tanning, pesticide formulation, and textile pH control. Industrial-grade formic acid usually has lower purity ranging between 75% and 94% and is produced under ISO-certified quality systems like ISO 9001 or ISO 14001. While the levels of impurities are higher and acceptable in this context, manufacturers are still required to provide Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and follow proper storage and labeling protocols.

 

Application and Use in Singapore

In Singapore, pharmaceutical companies typically prefer USP or EP grade formic acid, depending on their export markets and regulatory alignment. These high-grade acids are packaged in sterile HDPE drums or pharmaceutical-grade containers to prevent contamination. Pharmaceutical companies require rigorous documentation, including batch traceability, to meet health authority expectations.

In contrast, ISO-grade formic acid is more cost-effective and widely used in Singapore’s industrial sectors. Rubber processors and leather manufacturers use it as a coagulant and pH regulator, while agricultural businesses use it as a preservative or antimicrobial agent. This grade is supplied in bulk containers such as 200-liter drums or IBC tanks and is stored under standard warehouse conditions with chemical spill control systems in place.

Pharmaceutical-grade formic acid is generally priced higher, ranging from SGD 1,200 to SGD 1,800 per metric ton, depending on source and documentation. Industrial-grade formic acid is more affordable, usually between SGD 700 and SGD 900 per metric ton.

 

Supplier Insights

Several manufacturers provide reliable and standard-compliant formic acid:

Each of these suppliers provides detailed product documentation, and many offer local partnerships for storage, distribution, and technical support.
 

Storage and Safety Handling

Regardless of the grade, formic acid must be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight and incompatible chemicals like strong oxidizers. USP and EP grades require pharma-compliant storage spaces, while ISO-grade acids are stored in designated chemical warehouses with corrosion-proof containment.

Labeling must adhere to the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), displaying hazard pictograms, chemical identity, concentration, precautionary statements, and supplier contact details. Shelf life varies between 12 and 24 months, based on packaging and storage conditions.
 

Choosing the Right Grade

Pharmaceutical companies must use USP or EP grade formic acid depending on whether their products are targeted for the U.S. or EU markets. These grades offer the highest purity and are backed by stringent documentation and regulatory support.

Animal feed producers or agricultural businesses often choose EP or ISO grades based on local or export requirements. EP is preferred when exporting to regulated markets. ISO is adequate for general acidification and microbial inhibition.

Industrial sectors like leather, textiles, and rubber generally use ISO-grade formic acid due to its lower cost and sufficient quality for process-related applications. These businesses prioritize consistency and availability over pharmaceutical-level purity.
 

Conclusion

The formic acid grade you choose USP, EP, or ISO depends entirely on your product’s final use, industry standards, and regulatory environment. In Singapore, where regulatory scrutiny is high and supply chain logistics are efficient, companies have access to a wide array of formic acid grades from global producers.

Selecting the right grade not only ensures legal compliance and product safety but also impacts cost, customer confidence, and long-term business sustainability. Understanding the distinctions among these standards helps chemical buyers and manufacturers in Singapore make informed, strategic sourcing decisions. If you are interested in our products for your specific business needs, please do not hesitate to contact us.

 

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