Potassium hydroxide

Potassium hydroxide Potassium hydroxide

KOH      CAS: 1310-58-3

Main Applications

Potassium hydroxide is a strongly alkaline chemical raw material. Thanks to its unique chemical properties, it plays a key role in many industrial and consumer applications.

1. Chemical and Industrial Raw Material

Used to produce various potassium salts, including potassium carbonate, potassium permanganate, and dipotassium hydrogen phosphate.

Used to refine petroleum products, remove mercaptans, and serve as a catalyst in certain chemical reactions.

Used in electroplating, engraving, and lithography, and as an absorbent for carbon dioxide and moisture.

2. Household and Light Industries

An essential precursor in the manufacture of soft soap, liquid soap, and most detergents.

Used to produce everyday cosmetics such as vanishing cream, cold cream, and shampoo.

3. Food and Agriculture

Used in food processing as an acidity regulator, stabilizer, and thickener. It is commonly used for alkaline peeling of fruits and vegetables (such as olives and peaches), as well as in the processing of cocoa and chocolate products.

Used in agriculture as a raw material for fertilizers, and for procedures such as dehorning livestock.

4. Energy and Electronics

Used as the electrolyte in alkaline batteries, such as nickel-cadmium and nickel-metal hydride batteries.

Used for anisotropic etching of silicon wafers to manufacture micro- and nano-devices.

Safety Information

Highly Corrosive: May cause severe burns to the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract.

Handling Precautions: Dissolving in water releases a large amount of heat. Slowly add potassium hydroxide to water; never add water to potassium hydroxide, as this may cause violent splashing.

Storage: Store tightly sealed in a dry place, as it readily absorbs moisture and carbon dioxide from the air.