Potassium Hydroxide

Basic Information of Potassium Hydroxide

CAS No.:	1310-58-3
EC No.:	215-181-3
Linear Formula:	KOH
Molecular Weight:	56.11
Appearance:	White, odorless solid (flakes, pellets, granules)
Melting Point:	361 °C (lit.)
Boiling Point:	1320°C
Density:	1.450 g/mL at 20 °C
Solubility:	Extremely soluble in water (more so than NaOH), releasing significant heat. Also soluble in ethanol and methanol.
Hygroscopic & Deliquescent:	Readily absorbs moisture and carbon dioxide from the air.
Corrosivity:	Highly corrosive to skin, eyes, and certain metals. Requires extreme care in handling.
RIDADR:	UN 1813 8/PG 2
Chemical Structure:

Our commitment to delivering high-purity Potassium Hydroxide ensures a reliable and efficient component for your critical processes, offering consistent quality for diverse industrial needs.

Primary Applications of Potassium Hydroxide

Potassium Hydroxide's powerful basicity, high solubility, and versatility make it a fundamental chemical with extensive applications across various industries:

1. Soap and Detergent Manufacturing:

   It is the primary alkali used in the saponification process to produce liquid soaps and soft soaps, as well as various liquid detergents and cleaning formulations. It creates more soluble and milder soaps compared to sodium hydroxide.

2. Fertilizer Production:

   KOH is a key raw material for producing potassium-based fertilizers (e.g., potassium carbonate, potassium phosphates). These fertilizers are essential sources of potassium, a vital nutrient for plant growth, particularly for chloride-sensitive crops.

3. Alkaline Batteries:

   It is used as an electrolyte in alkaline batteries (e.g., nickel-cadmium, nickel-metal hydride, and some alkaline primary cells) due to its high conductivity and stability.

4. Chemical Manufacturing:

   A primary reactant and pH regulator in the synthesis of a wide range of organic and inorganic potassium compounds, including potassium salts, dyes, and other specialty chemicals. It is used for acid neutralization and catalysis.

5. Industrial Cleaning and Degreasing:

   Potassium Hydroxide is a powerful cleaning agent used in industrial degreasing, pipe cleaning, and oven cleaners. Its ability to saponify fats makes it effective in removing stubborn organic residues.

6. Pharmaceutical Industry:

   Used in the synthesis of certain pharmaceutical intermediates and in some medical preparations. (Pharmaceutical-grade KOH must be used).

7. Food Industry:

   Employed in food processing for thickening, pH regulation, and as a component in certain food additives. (Food-grade KOH must be used for these applications).

• Exceptional Purity & Consistent Quality: Our Potassium Hydroxide is manufactured to stringent purity specifications, crucial for ensuring optimal performance and efficiency in your diverse industrial processes, from liquid soap production to fertilizer manufacturing.

• Commitment to Quality & Safety: We adhere to the highest industry standards for quality management, safety, and environmental responsibility across all our operations, ensuring peace of mind for our clients and the safe handling of hazardous materials.

Hazards Classification

• GHS Classification: Corrosive (GHS05), Acute Toxicity (GHS06), Health Hazard (GHS08)

• Hazard Statements: Causes severe skin burns and eye damage; harmful if swallowed; may cause respiratory irritation.

• UN Number: UN 1813

• Hazard Class: 8 (Corrosive Substances)

• Packing Group: II