Formamide

Formamide is an amide derived from formic acid. It is a clear liquid with an ammonia-like odor. It is used primarily for manufacturing sulfa drugs and synthesizing vitamins and as a softener for paper and fiber. In its pure form, it dissolves many ionic compounds that are insoluble in water, so it is also used as a solvent. Formamide is also a constituent of cryoprotectant vitrification mixtures used for cryopreservation of tissues and organs.

Production

The reaction of formic acid with ammonia produces ammonium formate, which can then be turned into formamide by heating:

HCOOH + NH₃ → HCOONH₄

HCOONH₄ → HCONH₂ + H₂O