Potassium Nitrate

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 Potassium Nitrate is a white crystalline salt commonly known as saltpeter. It is a key oxidizing agent widely used in fertilizers, food preservation, pyrotechnics, and chemical manufacturing. Potassium Nitrate provides essential potassium and nitrogen nutrients in agriculture and acts as a source of oxygen in combustion reactions. Its stability and solubility make it valuable across various industries from agriculture to explosives.

Description

Potassium Nitrate

Primary Uses

Agriculture

  • Used extensively as a high-quality fertilizer supplying potassium and nitrogen essential for plant growth. 
  • Applied in hydroponics and soil conditioning to enhance crop yield and quality. 

Food Preservation

  • Employed as a curing agent in processed meats to inhibit microbial growth and preserve color. 
  • Acts as a preservative and antioxidant in food products. 

Pyrotechnics and Explosives

  • Serves as an oxidizer in fireworks, explosives, and rocket propellants. 
  • Used in manufacturing gunpowder and other pyrotechnic devices. 

Chemical Industry

  • Utilized as a raw material in producing nitric acid and other potassium compounds. 
  • Acts as an oxidizing agent in various chemical syntheses. 

Secondary Uses 

Glass and Ceramics

  • Used as a flux in glassmaking to improve clarity and melting properties. 

Pharmaceuticals

  • Used in small quantities in pharmaceutical formulations and diagnostic agents. 

Water Treatment

  • Occasionally used in water treatment processes as an oxidizing agent. 

Metallurgy

  • Applied in metal heat treatment processes and metal polishing compounds. 
PRODUCT KEY FEATURES

 Basic Identification Attributes

  • Chemical Name (IUPAC): Potassium nitrate 
  • Common/Trade Name: Potassium Nitrate 
  • CAS Number: 7757-79-1 
  • HS Code: 2834.29 
  • Synonyms: Saltpeter; Nitrate of potash 

Physical & Chemical Properties

  • Physical State: White crystalline solid or powder 
  • Color & Odor: White; odorless 
  • Solubility: Highly soluble in water (~31.6 g/100 mL at 20°C) 
  • Melting Point: 334°C 
  • Density: 2.11 g/cm³ 
  • Stability: Stable under normal conditions; decomposes on heating above 400°C 

Safety & Hazard Attributes

  • GHS Classification: Oxidizing solid (Category 2); may intensify fire 
  • Toxicity: Low to moderate toxicity; avoid ingestion and inhalation 
  • Exposure Limits: Follow occupational safety limits; use protective equipment 

Storage & Handling Attributes

  • Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from combustible materials 
  • Container Type: Plastic or metal containers with tight seals 
  • Shelf Life: Generally 2–5 years if stored properly 
  • Handling Precautions: Avoid contamination with organic materials; use PPE to prevent dust inhalation 

 

Regulatory & Compliance Attributes

  • Complies with fertilizer, food additive, and chemical safety regulations worldwide 
  • Classified as hazardous for transport due to oxidizing properties 

 

Environmental & Health Impact

  • Biodegradability: Inorganic salt; does not biodegrade but is environmentally stable 
  • Ecotoxicity: Can be harmful to aquatic life in high concentrations due to nitrate pollution 
  • Bioaccumulation: Not significant 
SAFETY HANDLING PRECAUTIONS

Safety Handling Precautions

  • PPE Required: Gloves, safety goggles, dust mask or respirator recommended 
  • Handling Guidelines: Avoid dust formation and contact with combustible materials 
  • Storage Measures: Keep containers tightly closed and away from heat and ignition sources 

 

First Aid Measures

  • Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical attention if respiratory symptoms occur 
  • Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water; seek medical advice if irritation persists 
  • Eye Contact: Rinse eyes with water for at least 15 minutes; seek medical attention if irritation continues 
  • Ingestion: Rinse mouth; seek medical advice immediately 

 

Firefighting Measures

  • Fire Hazards: Strong oxidizer; may intensify fires and cause explosions when in contact with flammable materials 
  • Extinguishing Media: Use water spray, foam, or dry chemical extinguishers; avoid dry powder extinguishers alone 
  • Special Precautions: Firefighters must wear protective clothing and self-contained breathing apparatus 

Hazardous Combustion Products: Nitrogen oxides and potassium oxides