Potassium Hydroxide

Synonym(s)

: caustic potash, potassium lye, potassium hydrate

Mol. Formula

: HKO

EC / List no.

: 215-181-3

CAS no.

: 1310-58-3

Molecular weight

: 56,106

Potassium hydroxide, also known as lye, is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula KOH. Commonly referred to as caustic potash, it is a strong base marketed in a variety of forms, including pellets, flakes, and powders. It is used in a variety of chemical, industrial and manufacturing applications.

Application

» This substance is used in the following products: washing and cleaning products, cosmetics and personal care products, coating products, pH regulators, water treatment products, perfumes and fragrances.
» Used in machine wash fluids/detergents, automotive care products, paints, coatings or adhesives, fragrances and air fresheners, coolants in refrigerators, oil-based electric heaters, hydraulic fluids in automotive suspension, lubricants in engine oil and brake fluids.

Product Specifications

Physical and Chemical Properties
» Potassium hydroxide solution appears as a clear aqueous solution.
» Odorless.

Properties

Characteristics	Unit	Value	Condition
Melting point	°C	406
Boiling point	°C	1327
Density	g/cm3	2.04	20 °C
Solubility	g/ 100 g	121	25 °C, soluble with water
Vapor pressure	mm Hg	1	714 °C
Autoignition temperature		Non- flammable
Corrosivity		Corrosive
pH		13.5	0.1 M aqueous solution