| abstract |
The invention relates to a process for separating formic acid from a reaction mixture which, in addition to the formic acid, comprises a polyoxometalate ion of the general formula [PMo x V y O 40 ] n- , where 6 ≦ x ≦ 11, 1 ≦ y ≦ 6, x + y = 12 and 3 <n <10, where n, x and y are each an integer, the separation being by extraction by means of a linear alcohol or a formic acid ester of a linear alcohol, the carbon chain of the linear alcohol being from 5 to 12 Having carbon atoms, wherein the reaction mixture is present in the formic acid or another protic solvent. |