The properties of anhydrous oxalic acid and oxalic acid dihydrate are discussed, tabulating their physical and thermochemical constants. The reactions of oxalic acid are also included. Five manufacturing processes which are employed for commercial production are illustrated: oxidation of carbohydrates, ethylene glycol process, propylene process, dialkyl oxalate process, and sodium formate process. The newest of the five, the dialkyl oxalate process (from UBE) is discussed in depth. Advances are covered, including a new synthetic route from CO 2 . Economic aspects of oxalic acid are described, outlining the regional features in the world market. Shipment, storage, and handling are included, covering disposal methods. Health and safety factors and toxicology are also presented. Uses of oxalic acid are described, including separation/recovery of rare‐earth elements, metal treatment, bleaching agents, textile treatment, leather tanning, marble polishing, millet jelly production, etc. Derivatives, such as salts/complexes and organic derivatives, are also presented. Vol. 17, pp. 882–902, 91 refs to December 1993.

Physical Properties Reactions Manufacture Health and Safety Factors Uses Derivatives