Potassium Hydrogen Carbonate Extra Pure
Potassium Hydrogen Carbonate Extra Pure, also known as potassium bicarbonate, is a fine white crystalline powder with excellent purity and stability. It is commonly used in laboratories as a buffering agent due to its mild alkalinity. In food processing, it functions as a leavening agent and pH regulator, and in agriculture, it is applied as a fungicide and a source of potassium. Its high solubility in water and non-toxic nature make it a versatile and safe compound for a range of analytical and technical applications. Proper storage in tightly sealed containers, away from moisture and acids, ensures optimal shelf life and performance.
Potassium Hydrogen Carbonate Extra Pure
PRIMARY USES
- Food Industry (E501):
- Used as a leavening agent in baking powders, where it releases carbon dioxide to help dough rise.
- Acts as a buffering agent to control pH in various food products.
- Fire Extinguishers:
- Commonly used in dry chemical fire extinguishers (especially Purple-K) for Class B and C fires (flammable liquids and electrical equipment).
- Agriculture & Horticulture:
- Serves as a potassium source in fertilizers to improve plant health.
- Used as a fungicide for controlling powdery mildew and other fungal infections on crops.
- Laboratory Applications:
- Functions as a mild base or buffering agent in chemical experiments and titrations.
- Used to prepare standard solutions and for pH control.
SECONDARY USES
- Pharmaceutical Industry:
- Used in antacid formulations to neutralize stomach acid.
- Sometimes found in electrolyte replacement therapies.
- Water Treatment:
- Helps adjust pH in water systems and aquatic environments.
- Beverage Industry:
- Occasionally used to regulate acidity in certain beverages, particularly sparkling drinks.
- Occasionally used to regulate acidity in certain beverages, particularly sparkling drinks.
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name: Potassium Hydrogen Carbonate
- CAS Number: 298-14-6
- HS Code: 2836.40.00
- Molecular Formula: KHCO₃
- Synonyms:
- Potassium bicarbonate
- Monopotassium carbonate
- Acid potassium carbonate
- Potassium acid carbonate
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Solid (crystalline powder or granules)
- Color & Odor: White, odorless
- Boiling Point & Melting Point:
- Decomposes on heating (>100 °C); no true boiling point
- Melting Point: Decomposes before melting (releases COâ‚‚)
- Density/Specific Gravity: ~2.17 g/cm³
- Solubility:
- Soluble in water (~22 g/100 mL at 20 °C)
- Insoluble in alcohol
- pH Level: ~8.3 (1% aqueous solution)
- Vapor Pressure & Volatility: Non-volatile
- Flash Point: Not flammable
- Autoignition Temperature: Not applicable
- Viscosity: Not applicable (solid)
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS Classification):
- Not classified as hazardous
- Generally considered safe under normal handling
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 1
- Flammability: 0
- Reactivity: 0
- Exposure Limits:
- No OSHA PEL or ACGIH TLV assigned
- Reactivity:
- Stable under normal conditions
- Decomposes under heat to form potassium carbonate, water, and carbon dioxide
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions:
- Store in a dry, cool place
- Keep containers tightly closed
- Incompatible Materials:
- Acids (release COâ‚‚)
- Strong oxidizers
- Container Type:
- Plastic or glass containers
- Shelf Life & Expiration Date:
- Stable for years under dry storage conditions
- Special Handling Requirements:
- Minimal PPE; use gloves and eye protection if handling large quantities
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Regulatory Status:
- GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by FDA
- Listed in TSCA and REACH
- Used as a food additive (E501(ii))
- Hazard Symbols (GHS Pictograms):
- None required
- Transportation Restrictions:
- Not regulated for transport
- Waste Disposal Method:
- Dispose of in accordance with local and national regulations
- Can be diluted and washed into wastewater systems
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity:
- Low toxicity to aquatic organisms
- Persistence in Environment:
- Breaks down into naturally occurring ions
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity:
- Not classified as carcinogenic or mutagenic
- Biodegradability:
- Inorganic compound; not biodegradable but environmentally benign
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Safety goggles or face shield
- Lab coat and chemical-resistant gloves (e.g., nitrile)
- Dust mask or respirator in case of powder handling
- Closed-toe shoes in laboratory settings
Handling:
- Avoid generating dust; use it with adequate ventilation.
- Do not inhale dust or ingest the substance.
- Handle with clean, dry equipment.
- Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Storage:
- Store in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area.
- Keep away from acids and moisture.
- Store separately from incompatible materials such as strong acids.
FIRST AID MEASURES
Inhalation:
- Move people to fresh air.
- Seek medical attention if breathing becomes difficult or irritation occurs.
Skin Contact:
- Wash thoroughly with soap and water.
- Remove contaminated clothing.
- Seek medical help if irritation persists.
Eye Contact:
- Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes.
- Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do.
- Get medical attention if discomfort continues.
Ingestion:
- Rinse mouth with water.
- Do not induce vomiting.
- Seek medical advice, especially if large amounts are ingested.
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES
Flammability:
- Non-flammable and not combustible.
Extinguishing Media:
- Use media suitable for surrounding fire (water spray, dry chemical, COâ‚‚, or foam).
Hazardous Combustion Products:
- May release carbon dioxide (COâ‚‚) and potassium oxides upon thermal decomposition.
Firefighter Protection:
- Wear full protective clothing and self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA).
- Avoid inhaling decomposition products.