Cobalt(II) formate

Cobalt(II) formate is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Co(HCO2)2 (or Co(HCOO)2). It typically exists as a dihydrate (Co(HCO2)2•2H2) in which it forms a 3D metal–organic framework structure and is known as Co-MOF.

Cobalt(II) formate is a red crystalline solid and is soluble in water. It can be very hazardous to the environment. Cobalt formate is used to make catalysts for chemical manufacture and for isolation of isotopically enriched hydrogen.

Synthesis
It can be prepared by adding Co(NO3)2 and phytic acid to a mixture of water, methanol, and dimethyl formamide.

The solution will have a clear appearance until it is heated 100 °C for about 24 hours. At this point it, will appear as a red crystalline structure.

Application
This MOF has recently been used to isolate hydrogen isotopes. This is done via an oxygen evolution reaction using Co(HCOO)2 as a catalyst.