Potassium hydroxide is a white solid in the form of flakes, granules or sticks. It is strongly alkaline, highly hygroscopic, and gradually deteriorates by absorbing carbon dioxide and moisture from air. It releases a large amount of heat when dissolved in water.
Physical & Chemical Properties
Molecular FormulaKOH
Density:2.04g/cm³g/cm³
Boiling Point:1324℃
Solubility:
Freely soluble in water, soluble in ethanol and glycerol, slightly soluble in ether.
Molecular Weight:56.1g/mol
Flash Point:
Melting Point:380℃
Uses
1. Chemical raw materials: Manufacture of potassium salts such as potassium carbonate, potassium permanganate and potassium dihydrogen phosphate.
2. Daily chemicals / Cleaning: Production of liquid soaps, detergents and alkaline cleaners.
3. Pharmaceuticals: Synthesis of pharmaceutical intermediates, potassium borohydride, spironolactone, etc.
4. Energy: Electrolyte for alkaline storage batteries and electrolyte additive for lithium batteries.
5. Electronics: LCD panel etching and semiconductor processing.
6. Others: Printing and dyeing / mercerizing, alkaline batteries, pH adjustment, and catalyst for biodiesel production.
Safety, Security & Risk
Chemical Hazards
Its aqueous solution is a strong alkali. It reacts violently with acids and corrodes metals such as aluminium, tin, lead and zinc, producing flammable and explosive gases. It reacts with ammonium salts to generate ammonia, posing a fire hazard. Contact with moisture and water may generate heat.