Potassium hydroxide (KOH) is a strong base
and alkali chemical compound. It is commonly known as caustic potash and is
used in various industrial, commercial, and laboratory applications.
Here are the details of Potassium Hydroxide along with its CAS number:
Chemical formula: KOH
Molecular weight: 56.1056 g/mol
Density: 2.12 g/cm³
Melting point: 360 °C (680 °F; 633 K)
Boiling point: 1,327 °C (2,421 °F; 1,600 K)
Solubility in water: Highly soluble, forming
a strongly alkaline solution
Potassium hydroxide is composed of potassium ions (K+) and hydroxide ions (OH-). It is produced by the electrolysis of potassium chloride (KCl) solution or by the reaction of potassium carbonate (K2CO3) with calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2).
Here are some common uses of Potassium Hydroxide:
1. Chemical Manufacturing: Potassium hydroxide is used in the production of various chemicals, including potassium carbonate, potassium phosphate, potassium silicate, and potassium soap. It is also used as a catalyst in certain chemical reactions.
2. Soap and Detergent Production: Potassium hydroxide is used in the production of liquid soaps, detergents, and cleaning products. It reacts with fatty acids or oils to form potassium salts of fatty acids (potassium soaps), which are water-soluble and have detergent properties.
3. pH Adjustment: Potassium hydroxide is used to adjust the pH levels of industrial processes, wastewater treatment systems, and agricultural soils. It neutralizes acidic solutions and helps maintain the desired alkalinity or acidity.
4. Biodiesel Production: Potassium hydroxide is used as a catalyst in the transesterification process to convert vegetable oils or animal fats into biodiesel fuel. It reacts with triglycerides to form fatty acid methyl esters (biodiesel) and glycerol.
5. Electroplating: Potassium hydroxide is used as an electrolyte in electroplating baths for the deposition of metals such as gold, silver, and copper onto metal substrates. It helps maintain conductivity and pH stability during the electroplating process.
6. Photography: Potassium hydroxide is used in photographic film processing as a developing agent to convert exposed silver halide crystals into metallic silver. It also helps remove residual silver halides from the film emulsion.
Potassium hydroxide is valued for its strong alkalinity, solubility, and versatility in various industrial processes. However, it is highly corrosive and can cause severe burns, skin irritation, and eye damage if not handled properly. Proper safety precautions, including the use of personal protective equipment, ventilation, and dilution protocols, should be followed when working with potassium hydroxide.
If you need further information or have specific questions, feel free to ask!