Hanson Chemicals

KOH Flake (Potassium Hydroxide)

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

Typical Specifications

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

Applications / Uses

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

Safety & Handling Information

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

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