Potassium bitartrate
General Product Information
| Article | Potassium bitartrate |
| Synonyms | E336, Cream of tartar, Potassium (2R,3R)-2,3,4-trihydroxy-4-oxobutanoate, Potassium hydrogen tartrate, Potassium acid tartrate, Monopotassium tartrate, Beeswing |
| CAS No. | 868-14-4 |
| EEG No. | – |
| EINECS No. | 212-769-1 |
| IMO | – |
| Tariff Code | 29181300 |
| UN No. | – |
| VLG/ADR | – |
Description
Potassium bitartrate is a fine white crystalline powder produced as a byproduct of wine production. It is the monopotassium salt of tartaric acid and is known for its acidic and stabilizing properties. Potassium bitartrate is widely used in the Food Industry, Pharmaceutical and Chemical Industry. Due to its natural origin and biodegradable properties, it is considered an environmentally friendly excipient.
Characteristics
- Odor: –
- Color: White.
- Grade: Food.
- Solubility: Moderately soluble in cold water. Better soluble in hot water.
- Taste: Sour.
- Shape: fine crystalline powder.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Chemical Structure | C4H5KO6 |
| Molar Weight | 188.18 g/mol |
| Melting Point | 230-270 °C (decomposes) |
| Boiling Point | – |
| Density | Approx. 1.95 g/cm³. |
| Refractive Index | – |
| pH | – |
Applications
Potassium bitartrate is applied in various ways, for instance:
1. Food Industry
As a raising agent (in combination with sodium bicarbonate in baking powder). Stabilizes beaten egg whites and whipped cream. Prevents crystallization of sugar syrup. Used as an acidity regulator (as food additive E336).
2. Pharmaceutical Industry
Used as an adjuvant in medication. Diuretic in combination with sodium tartrate.
3. Industrial Applications
In electroplating processes and at the preparation of stains. For cleaning copper and brass.
Interessing Links
- Codex Alimentarius (FAO/WHO) – Guidelines and standards for food additives and ingredients.
- European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) – For chemical information and regulations.
- European Food Information Council (EFIC)
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) – Information on the safety and uses of food additives and ingredients.
- PubChem – Potassium Hydrogentartrate – Chemical information by the National Library of Medicine of the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NIH-NCBI).
- Wikipedia – Potassium bitartrate