Potassium Hydroxide (KOH)

Product Overview

Potassium Hydroxide (KOH), commonly known as Caustic Potash or Potash Lye, is a strong inorganic base supplied as white, Technical Grade flakes. This material provides a highly soluble source of hydroxide ions for demanding industrial environments. It is essential for pH adjustment, neutralization, and base-catalyzed chemical reactions. Unlike sodium-based alkalis, Potassium Hydroxide offers higher solubility and prevents the formation of insoluble sodium salts in specific formulations.

Engineered for industrial consistency, this Technical Grade KOH (typical 90% assay) ensures reliable alkalinity for chemical synthesis, soap manufacturing (soft soaps), and electrolyte production. The controlled impurity profile minimizes scaling and interference in downstream processing. It serves as a primary reagent in degreasing agents, biodiesel production, and the manufacturing of potassium-based chemicals.

Key Properties

• Appearance: White, solid flakes
• Chemical Formula: KOH
• CAS Number: 1310-58-3
• Grade: Technical
• Assay (wt %): 85–95 (typical 90)
• Molecular Weight: 56.11 g/mol
• Specific Gravity: 1.15 (typical at 20°C)
• Solubility: Highly soluble in water, alcohol, and glycerol
• Melting Point: ~360°C
• Alkalinity: pKa 14.0 (Strong Base)

Common Applications

• pH Control & Water Treatment: Used to neutralize acidic waste streams and adjust alkalinity in industrial water systems where sodium limits apply.
• Soap & Detergent Manufacturing: Acts as the primary saponifying agent for soft soaps, liquid soaps, and specialized detergents, offering superior solubility compared to caustic soda.
• Chemical Synthesis: Functions as a strong base for deprotonation, ester hydrolysis, and the production of potassium salts (e.g., Potassium Carbonate, Potassium Phosphates).
• Batteries & Electronics: Serves as a conductive electrolyte in alkaline batteries and various electrochemical cells.
• Cleaning & Degreasing: Formulated into heavy-duty industrial cleaners for removing oils, greases, and organic residues from stainless steel and process equipment.
• Biodiesel Production: Utilized as a catalyst in the transesterification process to convert fats and oils into biodiesel.

Safety & Handling

DANGER: Corrosive Material. Potassium Hydroxide causes severe skin burns and eye damage. Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from moisture, acids, and reactive metals (aluminum, zinc, tin). This product is hygroscopic and will absorb water from the air; keep containers tightly sealed when not in use.

Required PPE: Wear chemical-resistant gloves, full-face splash shield/goggles, and impervious protective clothing. Ensure an eyewash station and safety shower are immediately available.

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