Potassium hydroxide is an inorganic compound that appears as white or slightly yellow lumps, flakes, or powder. Its chemical formula is KOH. As a strong base, potassium hydroxide forms strong alkaline solutions in water and other polar solvents. It is used in many industrial and domestic applications.
The chemical and physical properties of potassium hydroxide are as follows:
- Molecular weight: 56.11 g/mol
- Boiling point: 1324 °C
- Melting point: 406 °C
- Density: 2.04 g/cm³
- Solubility: High in water, ethanol, methanol, and glycerin; low in ether
The applications of potassium hydroxide include:
- It is used in the chemical industry for the production of many potassium compounds. For example, compounds such as potassium carbonate, potassium phosphate, potassium permanganate, and potassium nitrate are produced using potassium hydroxide.
- It is used as a catalyst reagent for developing thermal and acoustic insulation materials made from phenol-formaldehyde and mineral wool. Potassium hydroxide accelerates the reaction of phenol with formaldehyde and facilitates the melting of mineral wool.
- In the food industry, it is used as a pH control agent, stabilizer, and thickener. Potassium hydroxide is added to foods to reduce acidity and increase viscosity. For example, it is used in products like olives, cocoa, chocolate, and cheese.
- It is used in the production of liquid drain cleaners. Potassium hydroxide dissolves substances like grease, hair, and soap residue in drain pipes to clear blockages.
- It is used as an alkaline source for cleaning industrial equipment. Potassium hydroxide dissolves dirt such as grease, oil, and paint, allowing for thorough cleaning of equipment.
- In the medical field, it is used for preparing wet mounts of various clinical samples to microscopically visualize fungi and similar fungal elements in hair, skin, nails, and even vaginal secretions. Potassium hydroxide breaks down fungal cell walls, making them visible under a microscope.
Potassium hydroxide is also used in soap making, textile processing, paints, inks, and biodiesel production. It is a versatile chemical compound with many uses across various industries.