Iodometric Estimation of Formates by Oxidation with Iodine

A new procedure is described for the volumetric determination of formate ion, based on its oxidation by iodine solution. The hydriodic acid liberated during oxidation is estimated by a standard potassium iodate solution. The procedure is applicable to neutral formate solutions containing 30 to 90 mg. of formic acid with a precision of 1% or more. The interference caused by the salts of other organic acids and organic substances has also been studied.