Potassium Chloride BP
Potassium Chloride BP (British Pharmacopoeia grade) is a high-purity, pharmaceutical-grade potassium salt widely used in medical, agricultural, and industrial applications. It is a white crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water and serves as an essential source of potassium ions in various biochemical and physiological processes. The BP grade ensures strict compliance with purity and quality standards, making it suitable for pharmaceutical formulations and clinical use.
Primary Uses
Pharmaceuticals and Medicine
Used as an electrolyte replenisher in intravenous (IV) fluids and oral supplements to treat hypokalemia (low potassium levels).
Ingredient in oral rehydration salts (ORS) to restore electrolyte balance.
Used in tablet and capsule formulations for potassium supplementation.
Agriculture
Major component of potassium fertilizers (e.g., muriate of potash) to enhance soil fertility and crop yield.
Used to correct potassium deficiencies in soil essential for plant growth.
Food Industry
Used as a salt substitute and food additive (E508) to reduce sodium content in processed foods.
Acts as a stabilizer and preservative in food processing.
Chemical Industry
Employed in the manufacture of potassium hydroxide, potassium carbonate, and other potassium compounds.
Used as a raw material in chemical synthesis and industrial processes.
Secondary Uses
Water Treatment
Used in water softening and conditioning systems to replace sodium ions with potassium ions.
Laboratory Reagent
Utilized as a standard reagent and electrolyte in analytical chemistry and biochemical assays.
Animal Feed
Added to animal feed formulations to provide essential potassium for livestock health and growth.
Cosmetics and Personal Care
Incorporated in some cosmetic products as a buffering agent and skin conditioning ingredient.
Basic Identification Attributes
Chemical Name (IUPAC): Potassium chloride
Common/Trade Name: Potassium Chloride BP
CAS Number: 7447-40-7
HS Code: 2834.29 (Potassium chlorides)
Synonyms: KCl; muriate of potash (fertilizer grade)
Physical & Chemical Properties
Physical State: Solid, crystalline powder or granules
Color & Odor: White; odorless
Solubility: Highly soluble in water (~34.2 g/100 mL at 20°C)
Melting Point: 770°C (decomposes)
Density: ~1.984 g/cm³
Stability: Stable under normal conditions; non-reactive with water
Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous under normal use; avoid excessive ingestion
Toxicity: Low toxicity; however, excessive intake can cause hyperkalemia
Exposure Limits: Follow standard occupational exposure guidelines; avoid inhalation of dust
Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from moisture
Container Type: Sealed plastic or glass containers to prevent contamination and moisture ingress
Shelf Life: Typically 2–5 years if stored properly
Handling Precautions: Use gloves and dust mask if handling large quantities; avoid dust generation
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
Complies with British Pharmacopoeia (BP) standards for pharmaceutical use
Meets food-grade and agricultural chemical regulations where applicable
Environmental & Health Impact
Biodegradability: Inorganic salt, not biodegradable but environmentally inert
Ecotoxicity: Low environmental toxicity; high concentrations can affect aquatic life by altering ion balance
Bioaccumulation: Not significant
Safety Handling Precautions
PPE Required: Gloves, dust mask, and eye protection recommended during handling of bulk quantities
Handling Guidelines: Avoid dust formation; use in well-ventilated areas
Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed; protect from moisture
First Aid Measures
Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if irritation occurs
Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation persists
Eye Contact: Rinse thoroughly with water for 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation continues
Ingestion: Rinse mouth with water; seek medical advice if large quantities are ingested
Firefighting Measures
Fire Hazards: Non-flammable and non-combustible
Extinguishing Media: Use appropriate extinguishing media for surrounding fire (water, foam, dry chemical)
Special Precautions: None required specific to potassium chloride
Hazardous Combustion Products: None