In the bustling environment of chemical laboratories, among countless vials and bottles, one compound quietly performs essential roles across diverse applications. Oxalic acid dihydrate, with its unassuming appearance and technical name, serves as a foundational chemical reagent with surprisingly versatile uses.
Oxalic acid dihydrate (chemical formula: HO2CCO2H · 2H2O, molecular weight: 126.07) consists of oxalic acid molecules crystallized with two water molecules. This stable crystalline structure, identified by CAS Number [6153-56-6] and EC Number [205-634-3], makes it readily available for laboratory use.
First isolated in 1776 by Swedish chemist Carl Wilhelm Scheele from wood sorrel plants, oxalic acid occurs naturally in many vegetables including spinach and rhubarb. The dihydrate form has become a laboratory staple due to its consistent properties and reliable performance in chemical processes.
As a standardized reagent, oxalic acid dihydrate is available in multiple purity grades to suit different applications:
- Analytical Grade: Meets ACS, ISO, and Ph Eur standards for precision measurements
- Puriss P.A.: Ultra-high purity for trace analysis
- Synthesis Grade: Optimized for organic synthesis reactions
- BioUltra: Suitable for biochemical applications
This compound demonstrates remarkable versatility in scientific work:
- Analytical Chemistry: Serves as a primary standard for titrations and volumetric analysis
- Organic Synthesis: Functions as catalyst, reducing agent, and reactant in various reactions
- Materials Processing: Used in metal cleaning, textile treatment, and leather tanning
- Personal protective equipment (gloves, goggles, lab coat) is mandatory
- Work should be conducted in well-ventilated areas
- The compound must be stored separately from bases and oxidizers
- Waste disposal must follow institutional guidelines
Oxalic acid dihydrate exemplifies how fundamental chemical reagents enable scientific progress across disciplines. Its consistent performance and broad applicability continue to make it indispensable in modern laboratories.