Formula: | KOH |
CAS Number: | 1310-58-3 |
EC Number (EINECS): | 215-181-3 |
HS Code: | 28152000 |
UN Number: | 1813 |
IUPAC Name: | Potassium Hydroxide |
Also Known As: | Caustic Potash; Lye (Potash Lye) |
Molecular Weight, g/mol: | 56.11 |
Appearance: | White flakes or pellets |
Odor: | Odorless |
Melting Point, °C: | 360 |
Boiling Point, °C: | 1320 (decomposes) |
Density, g/cm³ (at 20°C): | 2.04 |
pH (1% solution): | ~13.5–14 |
Purity, %: | ≥90%, ≥95%, ≥99% (depending on grade) |
Grades Available: | Industrial, Technical, Analytical, FCC (Food Grade) |
Packaging: | 25kg HDPE bags, 500kg/1000kg jumbo bags |
Primary Applications
Used in production of potassium carbonate, potassium phosphates, and potassium soaps
Essential in biodiesel production (transesterification catalyst)
Widely used in detergents, cleaning agents, and disinfectants
Secondary Applications
Electrolyte in alkaline batteries
pH regulator in various industrial processes
Intermediate in agrochemicals and pharmaceuticals
End Industries Served: Soaps & Detergents, Chemicals, Biodiesel, Batteries, Textiles, Food Processing (for FCC grade), Pharmaceuticals, Agriculture
Hazard Class (GHS): Corrosive (Category 1A)
Hazard Statements (H-Codes):
H314: Causes severe skin burns and eye damage
H290: May be corrosive to metals
Precautionary Statements (P-Codes):
P280: Wear protective gloves/eye/face protection
P301 + P330 + P331: IF SWALLOWED – rinse mouth, do not induce vomiting
P303 + P361 + P353: IF ON SKIN – remove contaminated clothing, rinse with plenty of water
P305 + P351 + P338: IF IN EYES – rinse cautiously with water, remove contact lenses
Storage Conditions
Store in a dry, cool, ventilated area
Keep container tightly sealed, away from acids and moisture
Hygroscopic – absorbs CO₂ and moisture from air
Transport Information
ADR/RID: Class 8, UN1813, PG II
IMDG: Class 8, UN1813, PG II
IATA: Class 8, UN1813, PG II