Potassium Hydroxide
Potassium hydroxide (KOH) is a white hygroscopic solid. It dissolves in water, generating a lot of heat, to form the strong base caustic potash. Caustic potash is used as a catalyst, e.g., in the production of biodiesel from canola oil and methanol. Potassium hydroxide reacts with carbon dioxide in the air to form potassium carbonate. In detergent manufacture, potassium hydroxide is used to produce soft soaps (liquid soaps) and for the production of water-softening potassium phosphate for liquid detergents. In the food industry, potassium hydroxide is used as an acidity regulator. It is generally approved in the EU as a food additive (E 525) without a maximum quantity restriction for food.
| Most common applications: |
Manufacture of detergents Used as a catalyst in biodiesel production Food additive |
| Other names: |
Caustic potash Potassia Potassium oxide hydrate Caustic lye Potassium hydrate E 525 |
| Molecular formula: |
KOH |
| CAS number: |
1310-58-3 |
This information reflects the current state of our experience, however, this does not mean it guarantees certain properties of the product or its suitability for any specific purpose. This information does not absolve the user from the obligation of conducting the customary receiving inspection on acceptance of our products.
| Brief description: | white, hygroscopic substance |
| Molecular weight: |
56.11 g•mol−1
|
| Physical state: | solid |
| Density: |
2.04 g / cm³ |
| Melting point: |
360° C |
| Boiling point: |
1320° C |
| Solubility: |
good in water (1120 g/l |
This information reflects the current state of our experience, however, this does not mean it guarantees certain properties of the product or its suitability for any specific purpose. This information does not absolve the user from the obligation of conducting the customary receiving inspection on acceptance of our products.