Oil & Gas Exploration and Production Chemicals
Potassium Hydroxide
Chemical Description
Pure potassium hydroxide (KOH) is solid and colorless. It is a strong base, with a wide variety of uses in industrial applications. KOH is typically sold in pellet form, the pellets being translucent. These pellets will become tacky if exposed to air due to the hygroscopic nature of KOH. For this reason, KOH is commonly used as a desiccant, particularly in laboratory environments. When dissolved in water, the reaction is highly exothermic, giving off a great deal of heat. Typically, KOH is manufactured by an electrolysis reaction involving an aqueous solution of potassium chloride. This process is described by the following chemical reaction. 2 KCl + 2 H2O → 2 KOH + Cl2 + H2
Common Industrial Uses of Potassium Hydroxide
Potassium hydroxide (KOH) and sodium hydroxide (NaOH) are often used interchangeably as their chemical properties are very similar. In processes where either chemical will suffice, NaOH is typically used due to its lower cost.
KOH may be used in the manufacture of biodiesel by a process known as transesterification. During this process, vegetable oil's triglycerides are removed. After the resulting methanol is removed, the glycerin produced in this reaction is often used as a low-cost food supplement for livestock. KOH is also used in petroleum and natural gas refining for the removal of organic acids and sulfur compounds.
KOH is widely used in the manufacture of soft soap products. The use of KOH, in lieu of NaOH, in the soap making process yields a product which is softer, requiring less water to liquefy, therefore creating more concentrated cleaning solutions with the same amount of product. Nickel-iron, nickel-cadmium, and manganese dioxide-zinc batteries often use aqueous KOH solution as the electrolyte.
Like many bases, aqueous KOH may damage the cuticle of the hair follicle. For this reason, it is commonly used in the leather tanning process (and taxidermy in general) for removing the hair from animal hides. The same hair-damaging properties of KOH make it an ideal ingredient of pre-shave products for men and women.
Chemical Formula
- HOH
CAS No.
- 1310-58-3
Minimum Order Quantity
20 ton (40,000 pound) minimum order.
Note: CCUSA is a wholesale industrial and commercial bulk chemical supplier.
Safety Considerations
KOH is corrosive to the skin and eyes. Therefore, appropriate precautions must be taken when handling this chemical. Goggles and face shield are recommended, as well as a chemical apron, chemical resistant gloves and boots, and proper exhaust ventilation.
Common Names / Also Known As
- Caustic potash
- Potash lye
- Potassia
- Potassium hydrate
