Product Overview

Potassium Hydroxide (KOH) is a critical inorganic chemical compound with profound significance in industrial and research applications. As a strong alkaline substance, it serves as a fundamental reagent in numerous chemical processes, characterized by its exceptional reactivity and versatile chemical properties. The compound is typically produced through electrolysis of potassium chloride, resulting in a highly caustic substance with remarkable base characteristics.

In the realm of industrial chemistry, Potassium Hydroxide plays a pivotal role as a fundamental building block for various synthetic processes. Its strong alkaline nature and high reactivity make it an indispensable chemical in multiple technical domains, enabling complex chemical transformations and serving as a critical intermediate in advanced manufacturing techniques.

Key Properties

• Chemical Formula: KOH
• Molecular Weight: 56.11 g/mol
• Boiling Point: 1,327°C
• Melting Point: 360°C
• Specific Gravity: 2.044
• Appearance: White crystalline hygroscopic powder
• Solubility: Highly water-soluble
• Chemical Stability: Extremely stable under controlled conditions
• pH (1% Solution): 13.5 or higher

Common Applications

• Industrial Chemical Synthesis: Potassium Hydroxide serves as a critical reagent in organic and inorganic chemical synthesis, enabling complex molecular transformations through its strong basic properties. Researchers and industrial chemists utilize KOH to facilitate challenging chemical reactions, particularly in creating specialized organic compounds and intermediate chemical structures.
• Electrochemical Applications: In battery and energy storage technologies, KOH functions as an essential electrolyte component, facilitating ion transfer and enabling efficient electrical energy conversion. Its high conductivity and stability make it crucial for developing advanced alkaline battery systems and electrochemical research.
• Metal Surface Treatment: Potassium Hydroxide is extensively used in metal surface preparation, cleaning, and etching processes. Its strong alkaline nature allows for precise removal of oxidation layers, enabling superior surface modification techniques in manufacturing and metallurgical industries.
• Industrial Cleaning and Degreasing: As a powerful alkaline agent, KOH effectively removes organic contaminants, grease, and residues from industrial equipment and surfaces. Its high reactivity makes it an excellent cleaning solution for manufacturing environments requiring thorough and efficient surface preparation.
• Chemical Research and Laboratory Applications: Scientific researchers utilize Potassium Hydroxide as a fundamental reagent in analytical chemistry, organic synthesis, and advanced material development. Its predictable reactivity and controlled alkaline properties make it invaluable for sophisticated chemical investigations and experimental procedures.

Safety Precautions

Potassium Hydroxide is a highly corrosive substance that demands meticulous handling protocols. Always utilize specialized personal protective equipment including chemical-resistant gloves, full-face respirators, and impermeable protective clothing when managing this compound. Ensure immediate access to emergency eyewash stations and safety showers in work environments.

Storage requirements mandate specialized containment in corrosion-resistant containers constructed from materials such as high-density polyethylene or stainless steel. Maintain storage areas at controlled temperatures between 15-25°C, away from moisture, direct sunlight, and incompatible chemical substances. Implement robust ventilation systems to prevent potential vapor accumulation.

Emergency response procedures must include comprehensive neutralization strategies using weak acids like vinegar or dilute acetic acid for potential chemical exposure. Develop detailed chemical spill management protocols, ensuring rapid containment and neutralization of any accidental releases. Maintain comprehensive safety documentation and conduct regular training for personnel handling this reactive chemical.

Benefits

Potassium Hydroxide offers exceptional chemical performance characterized by high purity, remarkable reactivity, and consistent quality. Its precise formulation enables reliable industrial applications, providing manufacturers and researchers with a versatile chemical reagent that meets rigorous technical specifications and regulatory standards.

The compound's superior alkaline properties create unique competitive advantages across multiple technical domains. Its ability to facilitate complex chemical transformations, coupled with its stable molecular structure, positions Potassium Hydroxide as an essential component in advanced industrial and research processes, delivering unparalleled efficiency and precision in chemical applications.