Potassium Thiocyanate Extra Pure
Potassium Thiocyanate Extra Pure is a high-purity crystalline compound commonly used in analytical chemistry, forensic science, and complexometric titrations. Known for forming deeply colored complexes with iron and other metal ions, it is frequently employed as a qualitative reagent for detecting ferric ions. In laboratory environments, it also plays a role in spectrophotometric analysis, chemical synthesis, and photographic processing. Its extra pure grade ensures exceptional clarity and consistency in results, making it suitable for precision applications where reagent-grade chemicals are not sufficient.
Potassium Thiocyanate Extra Pure
PRIMARY USES
- Analytical Chemistry
- Used in iron(III) thiocyanate tests to detect Fe³⁺ ions (deep red complex formation).
- Common reagent for colorimetric and spectrophotometric analysis of various metal ions.
- Applied in gravimetric and titrimetric determinations.
- Forensic & Toxicological Analysis
- Plays a role in blood and saliva analysis due to its ability to react with specific ions.
- Used in chemical detection kits and trace residue identification.
- Photographic Industry
- Acts as a fixing agent and stabilizer in photographic emulsions.
- Assists in complexation and removal of unreacted silver halides.
SECONDARY USES
- Chemical Synthesis
- Intermediate in preparing thiocyanate complexes, organosulfur compounds, and catalysts.
- Used in the formation of transition metal coordination compounds.
- Biochemical Applications
- Employed in protein denaturation studies and enzyme activity assays as a chaotropic agent.
- Facilitates membrane permeability studies in controlled environments.
- Educational Laboratories
- Demonstrates coordination chemistry, redox reactions, and ligand exchange principles in classrooms.
- Suitable for color reaction demonstrations and reagent preparation.
1. Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name: Potassium Thiocyanate
- CAS Number: 333-20-0
- HS Code: 2842.90.90
- Molecular Formula: KSCN
- Synonyms:
- Potassium rhodanide
- Thiocyanic acid, potassium salt
- KSCN
2. Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Solid (crystalline powder or granules)
- Color & Odor: Colorless to white crystals; faint bitter or sulfur-like odor
- Boiling Point & Melting Point:
- Melting Point: ~173 °C
- Decomposes before boiling
- Density/Specific Gravity: ~1.89 g/cm³
- Solubility:
- Soluble in water (highly soluble)
- Soluble in ethanol and acetone
- pH Level: ~6–8 (1% aqueous solution)
- Vapor Pressure & Volatility: Negligible vapor pressure
- Flash Point: Not flammable
- Autoignition Temperature: Not applicable
- Viscosity: Not applicable (solid)
3. Safety & Hazard Attributes
- Hazard Class (GHS Classification):
- Acute Toxicity (Oral, Category 4)
- Eye Irritation (Category 2A)
- NFPA Ratings:
- Health: 2
- Flammability: 0
- Reactivity: 1
- Exposure Limits:
- No specific OSHA PEL or ACGIH TLV established
- Reactivity:
- Incompatible with strong acids, oxidizers, and nitrates
- May release toxic gases (e.g., hydrogen cyanide) when heated or acidified
4. Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions:
- Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place
- Protect from light and moisture
- Incompatible Materials:
- Acids, strong oxidizing agents, nitrates
- Container Type:
- Airtight plastic or glass containers
- Shelf Life & Expiration Date:
- Stable under recommended conditions; check every 2–3 years
- Special Handling Requirements:
- Use gloves and safety goggles
- Work in a fume hood if handling powders or solutions extensively
5. Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Regulatory Status:
- Listed under TSCA and REACH
- Hazard Symbols (GHS Pictograms):
- ⚠️ Warning (Acute toxicity, eye irritation)
- Transportation Restrictions:
- Not regulated as a hazardous material by DOT/ADR
- No UN number
- Waste Disposal Method:
- Dispose as hazardous waste
- Must comply with local, state, and national environmental regulations (e.g., RCRA in the U.S.)
6. Environmental & Health Impact
- Ecotoxicity:
- Toxic to aquatic organisms in high concentrations
- Persistence in Environment:
- Can degrade slowly; may persist in water if not treated
- Carcinogenicity/Mutagenicity:
- Not classified as carcinogenic by IARC, NTP, or OSHA
- Biodegradability:
- Not readily biodegradable; inorganic salt
- Not readily biodegradable; inorganic salt
SAFETY PRECAUTIONS
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE):
- Chemical-resistant lab coat
- Nitrile gloves (check for integrity before use)
- Safety goggles or chemical splash face shield
- Dust mask or respirator in case of inadequate ventilation
Handling:
- Handle with care in a well-ventilated area
- Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing
- Do not inhale dust or vapors
- Prevent release into the environment
- Avoid mixing with acids — may release toxic hydrogen cyanide gas
Storage:
- Store tightly sealed in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area
- Protect from moisture and light
- Keep away from incompatible materials such as acids, strong oxidizers, and metals
- Label properly and keep away from food and drink
FIRST AID MEASURES
Inhalation:
- Remove victim to fresh air immediately
- Keep at rest and warm
- Provide oxygen if breathing is difficult
- Seek immediate medical attention
Skin Contact:
- Immediately wash skin with soap and plenty of water
- Remove contaminated clothing
- Seek medical advice if irritation develops or persists
Eye Contact:
- Rinse cautiously with water for at least 15 minutes
- Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do
- Seek urgent medical attention
Ingestion:
- Rinse mouth with water (only if person is conscious)
- Do not induce vomiting
- Seek emergency medical help immediately — cyanide poisoning possible
FIRE FIGHTING MEASURES
Flammability:
- Not highly flammable but may decompose on heating
Extinguishing Media:
- Use dry chemical, CO₂, or alcohol-resistant foam
- Water spray may be used to cool containers, not for direct extinguishment
Hazardous Combustion Products:
- Hydrogen cyanide, sulfur oxides, nitrogen oxides, potassium oxides
Firefighter Protection:
- Full protective gear with self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA)
- Approach fire with caution — toxic gases may be released
- Control runoff to prevent environmental contamination