Hello George:
You said
>Formic acid is an organic acid and has little or no effect on metals.  Just
>be cause of the word "acid", too many people think of burn, destruction,
etc.
> After all, carbonated water is carbonic ACID.


Carbonated water is a solution of carbon dioxide in water under pressure,
and although commonly called carbonic acid, is only slightly acidic.
I am concerned that your comment implying that organic acids are innocuous
might lead beekeepers to treat it casually. In fact, both formic and acetic
acids (used to sterilise hive equipment) in their concentrated forms used by
beekeepers present a significant hazard to health, and should be handled
with the care suggested by Al.
I believe both will rust metallic hive equipment, not only nails, but also
excluders and metal runners. I can confirm this from personal experience
with acetic acid, although I have not yet used formic acid. By the way,
diluted acetic acid is more commonly known as vinegar, but don't be
deceived!

John Burgess, Editor Gwenynwyr Cymru/The Welsh Beekeeper, and retired
chemist.
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