Potassium Chlorate

Whatsapp Order

Potassium Chlorate is a strong oxidizing agent and crystalline chemical compound widely used in various industrial, laboratory, and commercial applications. It appears as a white, odorless, and water-soluble solid. Potassium Chlorate serves primarily as a source of oxygen in chemical reactions and is critical in the manufacture of explosives, matches, fireworks, and disinfectants. Due to its reactive nature, it requires careful handling and storage.

 

Description

Potassium Chlorate

 Primary Uses 

  1. Explosives and Pyrotechnics
  • Acts as a powerful oxidizer in the formulation of explosives, detonators, and blasting agents.
  • Widely used in fireworks to generate oxygen and sustain combustion, producing bright flames and colors.
    Key ingredient in matchstick heads for ignition.
  1. Disinfectants and Bleaching Agents
  • Utilized as a precursor in the manufacture of disinfectants and antiseptic solutions.
  • Employed in bleaching processes for paper and textiles.
  1. Chemical Oxygen Generation
  • Used in oxygen candles and chemical oxygen generators for emergency breathing apparatuses and submarines.
  • Provides a controlled release of oxygen in confined environments.
  1. Laboratory Reagent
  • Functions as an oxidizing reagent in various chemical syntheses and analytical procedures.
  • Used for qualitative and quantitative analysis in laboratories.

Secondary Uses

  1. Agriculture
  • Occasionally used in small quantities as a herbicide or defoliant.
  • Employed in soil sterilization to control pathogens (with caution due to toxicity).
  1. Metallurgy
  • Used in some metal refining and processing techniques as an oxidizer.
  1. Woodworking
  • Involved in chemical processes to enhance wood bleaching and treatment.
  1. Education and Demonstrations
  • Used in controlled classroom experiments to demonstrate exothermic reactions and oxygen generation.
KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

  • Chemical Name (IUPAC): Potassium chlorate
  • Common/Trade Name: Potassium Chlorate
  • CAS Number: 3811-04-9
  • HS Code: 2829.90 (Other chlorates)
  • Synonyms: KClO₃; chlorate of potassium

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

  • Physical State: Solid, crystalline powder or granules
  • Color & Odor: White; odorless
  • Solubility: Soluble in water (7.9 g/100 mL at 20°C)
  • Melting Point: Approximately 356°C (decomposes)
  • Density: ~2.32 g/cm³
  • Stability: Stable under normal conditions; decomposes violently under heat or shock

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

  • GHS Classification: Oxidizing solid (Category 2); acute toxicity (Category 4); hazardous to the environment
  • Toxicity: Moderate; harmful if ingested or inhaled; strong oxidizer may cause fire/explosion hazards
  • Exposure Limits: Follow OSHA and local regulations; avoid inhalation and skin contact

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

  • Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from combustible materials and reducing agents
  • Container Type: Sealed plastic or glass containers; avoid metal containers that can react
  • Shelf Life: Typically 1–3 years if stored properly
  • Handling Precautions: Use non-sparking tools, wear protective gloves and goggles; avoid friction, heat, and contamination

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

  • Complies with chemical safety and transportation regulations (e.g., OSHA, REACH, DOT)
  • Classified as a hazardous material for transport and storage

6. Environmental & Health Impact

  • Biodegradability: Not biodegradable
  • Ecotoxicity: Toxic to aquatic life; avoid environmental release
  • Bioaccumulation: Not significant
SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

  • PPE Required: Gloves, goggles, lab coat, and dust mask or respirator in dusty environments
  • Handling Guidelines: Avoid contact with combustibles; use in well-ventilated areas; prevent dust generation
  • Storage Measures: Keep away from heat sources, reducing agents, and organic materials

First Aid Measures

  • Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately; seek medical attention if breathing difficulties develop
  • Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water; remove contaminated clothing; seek medical advice if irritation persists
  • Eye Contact: Rinse cautiously with water for at least 15 minutes; seek immediate medical attention
  • Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; rinse mouth with water and seek urgent medical care

Firefighting Measures

  • Fire Hazards: Strong oxidizer; can intensify fires and cause explosions if mixed with combustibles
  • Extinguishing Media: Use large amounts of water; do not use dry chemical extinguishers alone
  • Special Precautions: Firefighters should wear full protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus
  • Hazardous Combustion Products: May produce chlorine gas, potassium oxides, and oxygen