Potassium Stearate
| Formula: | C₁₈H₃₅KO₂ |
| CAS Number: | 822-06-0 |
| EC Number (EINECS): | 201-134-4 |
| HS Code: | 3402.19 |
| UN Number: | Not classified as hazardous |
| IUPAC Name: | Potassium octadecanoate |
| Also Known As: | Potassium soap; Potassium salt of stearic acid |
| Molecular Weight, g/mol: | 306.47 |
Typical Specifications
| Appearance: | White to off-white powder or flakes |
| Odor: | Characteristic mild fatty odor |
| Melting Point, °C: | 190–195 |
| Boiling Point, °C: | Decomposes above 200 |
| Density, g/cm³ (at 20°C): | 0.9–1.0 |
| Solubility: | Soluble in water, slightly soluble in alcohol |
| pH (1% solution): | 9–10 |
| Purity, %: | ≥95 |
| Grades Available: | Standard / Cosmetic / Industrial |
| Packaging: | 25kg bags, 50kg bags, bulk |
Applications / Uses
Primary Applications
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Used as a surfactant and emulsifying agent in soaps and detergents
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Ingredient in shampoos, liquid soaps, and creams
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Acts as a lubricant and thickener in cosmetics
Secondary Applications
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Used in textile processing and softening agents
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Component in metal cleaning and polishing formulations
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Used in industrial grease and lubricants
End Industries Served: Soaps & Detergents, Cosmetics, Personal Care, Textile, Industrial Lubricants
Safety & Handling Information
Hazard Class (GHS): Not classified as hazardous; may cause mild irritation
Hazard Statements (H-Codes):
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H315: Causes skin irritation (mild)
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H319: Causes serious eye irritation (if concentrated)
Precautionary Statements (P-Codes):
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P280: Wear protective gloves/eye protection if handling concentrated material
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P305 + P351 + P338: IF IN EYES – rinse cautiously with water
Storage Conditions
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Store in a cool, dry, ventilated place
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Keep container tightly closed to prevent moisture absorption
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Avoid contact with strong acids
Transport Information
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ADR/RID: Not classified as dangerous goods
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IMDG: Not classified as dangerous goods
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IATA: Not classified as dangerous goods