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Applications of Ammonium Oxalate in Analytical Chemistry, Metal Processing, and Industry

Application of Ammonium Oxalate

Ammonium Oxalate ((NH₄)₂C₂O₄) is a white crystalline powder that is soluble in water and slightly soluble in alcohol. It is primarily used as a reagent in chemical analysis and various industrial processes due to its ability to form insoluble oxalates with certain metal ions.

Below are the major applications of ammonium oxalate:


1. Analytical Chemistry

Ammonium oxalate is widely used as a precipitating agent in chemical analysis, especially for:

  • Calcium determination – forming insoluble calcium oxalate precipitate.

  • Rare earth metal analysis – separating and purifying rare earth elements.

  • Gravimetric analysis – as part of procedures requiring oxalate precipitation.


2. Metal Processing and Metallurgy

In metallurgical processes, ammonium oxalate is used for:

  • Purification of metals by removing calcium and other impurities.

  • Electroplating baths as a stabilizer and complexing agent.


3. Textile Industry

Ammonium oxalate is sometimes applied in textile processing, mainly for:

  • Removing iron stains from fabrics and fibers.

  • Acting as a reducing agent in certain dyeing processes.


4. Photography

Historically, ammonium oxalate has been used in:

  • Platinum and palladium photographic printing, where it helps to reduce metal salts to form images.


5. Laboratory Reagent

Ammonium oxalate serves as a standard laboratory reagent, especially in:

  • Titrations involving calcium or magnesium.

  • Preparing oxalate buffer solutions.

  • Research on oxalate metabolism and calcium binding.


6. Construction and Cement Industry

In specialized applications, ammonium oxalate is used to test the presence of free lime in cement, which affects the setting time and durability of concrete.


Typical Dosage Reference

  • For calcium precipitation: Used in stoichiometric amounts based on the calcium content.

  • In buffer preparations: Usually millimolar concentrations depending on the application.

  • For stain removal: Typically 1-5% aqueous solutions applied directly.


Conclusion

Ammonium oxalate is a versatile chemical with essential roles in analytical chemistry, metallurgy, textiles, and photography. Its strong chelating and precipitating properties make it valuable for separating metals and purifying materials.

For high-quality ammonium oxalate with global supply, please contact Jiangsu Khonor Chemicals Co., Limited.

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