Potassium Iodide
Potassium Iodide is a white, crystalline inorganic salt that serves as a vital source of iodine. It is widely used in medical, pharmaceutical, nutritional, and industrial fields. Potassium Iodide is highly soluble in water and is used both as a dietary supplement to prevent iodine deficiency and as a protective agent against radioactive iodine exposure. It also finds applications in chemical synthesis and photographic processes.
Primary Uses
Pharmaceuticals and Medicine
Used as an oral thyroid blocking agent to protect the thyroid gland from radioactive iodine in nuclear emergencies.
Employed in the treatment of iodine deficiency disorders, including goiter and hypothyroidism.
Used as an expectorant in cough medicines and in the treatment of certain fungal infections.
Serves as a reagent in medical diagnostic tests and radiography.
Nutritional Supplements
Added to table salt (iodized salt) to prevent iodine deficiency in populations.
Used in dietary supplements to maintain adequate iodine levels for thyroid health.
Chemical Industry
Used in the synthesis of organic and inorganic iodine compounds.
Acts as a reducing agent and reagent in analytical chemistry.
Photography
Historically used in photographic emulsions and film manufacturing.
Secondary Uses
Water Treatment
Utilized in water purification and disinfection processes.
Laboratory Reagent
Employed as a reagent in various chemical and biological assays.
Animal Feed
Added to animal feeds as a nutritional supplement to ensure adequate iodine intake.
Chemical Indicator
Used in starch-iodine test and other analytical procedures as an indicator.
Basic Identification Attributes
Chemical Name (IUPAC): Potassium iodide
Common/Trade Name: Potassium Iodide
CAS Number: 7681-11-0
HS Code: 2827.39 (Iodides)
Synonyms: KI; iodide of potassium
Physical & Chemical Properties
Physical State: Solid, crystalline powder or granules
Color & Odor: White; odorless
Solubility: Highly soluble in water (~144 g/100 mL at 20°C)
Melting Point: 681°C (decomposes)
Density: ~3.12 g/cm³
Stability: Stable under normal conditions; sensitive to light and moisture
Safety & Hazard Attributes
GHS Classification: Not classified as hazardous; may cause mild irritation
Toxicity: Low toxicity at recommended doses; overdose can cause iodine poisoning
Exposure Limits: Follow safety data sheet recommendations; avoid inhalation of dust
Storage & Handling Attributes
Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, and dark place in tightly closed containers
Container Type: Glass or plastic containers with airtight seals
Shelf Life: Typically 3–5 years if stored properly
Handling Precautions: Use gloves and dust mask when handling large quantities; avoid moisture and light exposure
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
Complies with pharmaceutical and food-grade standards (e.g., USP, FCC)
Approved for use as a dietary supplement and food additive
Environmental & Health Impact
Biodegradability: Inorganic salt; environmentally stable
Ecotoxicity: Low toxicity to aquatic life at typical concentrations
Bioaccumulation: Not significant
PPE Required: Gloves, goggles, and dust mask recommended when handling bulk quantities
Handling Guidelines: Avoid dust formation; use in well-ventilated areas
Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed and protected from light
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 develops
Eye Contact: Rinse thoroughly with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation persists
Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek medical advice if large quantities ingested
Firefighting Measures
Fire Hazards: Non-flammable; potassium iodide itself does not support combustion
Extinguishing Media: Use water, foam, dry chemical, or COâ‚‚ as appropriate for surrounding fire
Special Precautions: None specific to potassium iodide
Hazardous Combustion Products: May release iodine vapors under extreme heat