Potassium carbonate
General Product Information
| Article | Potassium carbonate |
| Synonyms | E501(i), Carbonate of potash, Dipotassium carbonate, Sub-carbonate of potash, Pearl ash, Pearlash, Potash, Salt of tartar, Salt of wormwood |
| CAS No. | 584-08-7 |
| EEG No. | – |
| EINECS No. | 209-529-3 |
| IMO | – |
| Tariff Code | 28364000 |
| UN No. | – |
| VLG/ADR | – |
Description
Potassium carbonate is a white, crystalline, hygroscopic salt that is highly soluble in water. It is produced commercially via the reaction of potassium hydroxide with carbon dioxide. Potassium carbonate is known for its strong alkaline properties and is used in a variety of industrial applications. In water, it forms an alkaline solution and is non-flammable. The product is widely used in industries such as Chemical Industry, Food Industry, Glass Production and Agriculture.
Characteristics
- Odor: Odorless.
- Hygroscopic: Yes.
- Color: White.
- Grade: Food.
- Solubility: Highly soluble in water.
- Taste: –
- Shape: Crystalline powder.
Physical & Chemical Properties
| Chemical Structure | K2CO3 |
| Molar Weight | 138.21 g/mol |
| Melting Point | 891 °C |
| Boiling Point | – |
| Density | 2.43 g/cm³ (at 20 °C) |
| Refractive Index | – |
| pH | Approx. 11.6 (on 1% solution). |
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 Carbonate – Chemical information by the National Library of Medicine of the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NIH-NCBI).
- Wikipedia – Potassium carbonate
Applications
Potassium carbonate is applied in various ways, for instance:
1. Food Industry
As a raising agent and acidity regulator (as food additive E501(i)), including in cocoa processing, noodles and baking products.
2. Pharmaceutical Industry
As an adjuvant in tablets and solutions.
3. Chemical Industry
Used at the synthesis of potassium salts, potassium soaps, detergents and other alkaline substances.
4. Textile & Paper Industry
In dyeing and washing processes.
5. Agriculture
In liquid fertilizers as a potassium source.
6. Glass Industry
Essential as a melting agent in the production of specialty glass, such as optical and heat-resistant glass.