Potassium Hydroxide

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Potassium Hydroxide is a highly concentrated, caustic alkaline chemical available as a solid (pellets, flakes) or concentrated aqueous solution. It is a strong base widely used in industrial processes, chemical manufacturing, and as a reagent. Potassium Hydroxide provides excellent neutralizing, saponifying, and cleaning properties and is essential in producing potassium soaps, biodiesel, fertilizers, and various chemical compounds. Its high purity and concentration (90%) make it suitable for demanding applications requiring strong alkalinity.

 

Description

Potassium Hydroxide

Primary Uses 

  1. Chemical Manufacturing
  • Used as a strong base and neutralizing agent in chemical syntheses and industrial processes.
  • Essential for manufacturing potassium soaps and detergents by saponification of fats and oils.
  • Utilized in biodiesel production as a catalyst in transesterification reactions.
  • Used in the production of potassium carbonate, potassium phosphates, and other potassium salts.
  1. Food Industry
  • Used as a food-grade alkali for pH regulation and peeling in food processing (e.g., peeling fruits and vegetables).
  • Employed in cocoa and chocolate processing to alkalize cocoa products.
  1. Water Treatment
  • Used to control water pH and neutralize acidic water in municipal and industrial treatment plants.
  1. Agriculture
  • Raw material in the manufacture of potassium fertilizers and soil amendments.
  1. Cleaning Products
  • Key ingredient in industrial cleaners, drain openers, and degreasers due to its strong alkaline properties.

Secondary Uses

  1. Pharmaceuticals
  • Used in small quantities in drug formulations and pharmaceutical intermediates.
  1. Battery Manufacturing
  • Employed as electrolyte in alkaline batteries and fuel cells.
  1. Laboratory Reagent
  • Used extensively as a strong base in analytical chemistry and titrations.
  1. Cosmetics
  • Used in controlled amounts for pH adjustment in some personal care products.
KEY PRODUCT FEATURES

1. Basic Identification Attributes

  • Chemical Name (IUPAC): Potassium hydroxide
  • Common/Trade Name: Potassium Hydroxide 90%
  • CAS Number: 1310-58-3
  • HS Code: 2815.11 (Potassium hydroxide)
  • Synonyms: Caustic potash; KOH

2. Physical & Chemical Properties

  • Physical State: Solid (pellets, flakes) or concentrated aqueous solution (~90% w/w)
  • Color & Odor: White; odorless
  • Solubility: Highly soluble in water, exothermic dissolution
  • Melting Point: 360°C (decomposes)
  • Density: ~2.044 g/cm³ (solid); ~1.5 g/cm³ (90% solution)
  • Stability: Stable under normal conditions; highly reactive with acids and water

3. Safety & Hazard Attributes

  • GHS Classification: Corrosive (Skin corrosion Category 1A), Serious eye damage (Category 1)
  • Toxicity: Highly corrosive and hazardous upon contact or inhalation
  • Exposure Limits: Strict occupational exposure limits apply; avoid contact and inhalation

4. Storage & Handling Attributes

  • Storage Conditions: Store in tightly sealed, corrosion-resistant containers; keep dry and away from acids
  • Container Type: HDPE drums, plastic-lined steel containers
  • Shelf Life: Typically 1–3 years if stored properly
  • Handling Precautions: Use full PPE including gloves, goggles, face shield, and protective clothing; avoid moisture contact

5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

  • Complies with chemical safety regulations including OSHA, REACH, and local standards
  • Classified as hazardous material for transport and handling

6. Environmental & Health Impact

  • Biodegradability: Inorganic compound; not biodegradable but neutralizes in environment quickly
  • Ecotoxicity: Harmful to aquatic organisms at high concentrations due to alkalinity
  • Bioaccumulation: Not applicable
SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

  • PPE Required: Chemical-resistant gloves, eye protection, face shield, and protective clothing mandatory
  • Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid inhalation of mist and skin contact
  • Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed; prevent contact with acids and moisture

First Aid Measures

  • Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately; seek urgent medical attention for respiratory distress
  • Skin Contact: Remove contaminated clothing; wash skin thoroughly with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical help for burns
  • Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with water for at least 15 minutes; seek immediate medical attention
  • Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; rinse mouth and seek immediate medical care

Firefighting Measures

  • Fire Hazards: Non-flammable but reacts violently with water and acids
  • Extinguishing Media: Use water spray to dilute and cool; avoid dry chemicals near reactive materials
  • Special Precautions: Firefighters must wear full protective gear and self-contained breathing apparatus
  • Hazardous Combustion Products: May produce potassium oxides and corrosive fumes