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Send EmailPotassium Carbonate, Dipotassium Carbonate, Pearl Ash, Potash, Tartar Salt, E501, E501i, 584-08-7
POTASSIUM CARBONATE (E501)
PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Potassium Carbonate |
| Chemical Name | Potassium Carbonate |
| Synonyms (Turkish) | Potasyum Karbonat, Potas, Karbonik Asit Potasyum Tuzu, Tartar Tuzu, İnci Külü |
| Synonyms (English) | Potassium Carbonate, Carbonic Acid Potassium Salt, Salt of Tartar, Pearl Ash, Potash, Dipotassium Carbonate |
| E Number | E501, E501i |
| CAS Number | 584-08-7 |
| Molecular Formula | K₂CO₃ |
| Molecular Weight | 138.21 g/mol |
| Appearance | White, crystalline powder or granules |
| Odor | Odorless |
CHEMICAL STRUCTURE
Potassium Carbonate
K⁺ — O⁻ — C(=O) — O⁻ — K⁺
Molecular Formula: K₂CO₃
SMILES: [K+].[K+].[O-]C([O-])=O
InChI: InChI=1S/CH2O3.2K/c2-1(3)4;;/h(H2,2,3,4);;/q;2*+1/p-2
InChIKey: BWHMMNNQKKPAPP-UHFFFAOYSA-L
Structure: Inorganic salt of carbonic acid; Dipotassium salt; Highly alkaline; Strong electrolyte.
SECTION 1: CHEMICAL IDENTITY AND DESCRIPTION
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Product Name | Potassium Carbonate |
| Chemical Name | Potassium Carbonate |
| Synonyms (Turkish) | Potasyum Karbonat, Potas, Karbonik Asit Potasyum Tuzu, Tartar Tuzu, İnci Külü |
| Synonyms (English) | Potassium Carbonate, Carbonic Acid Potassium Salt, Salt of Tartar, Pearl Ash, Potash, Dipotassium Carbonate |
| E Number | E501, E501i |
| CAS Number | 584-08-7 |
| EC Number (EINECS) | 209-529-3 |
| Molecular Formula | K₂CO₃ |
| Molecular Weight | 138.21 g/mol |
| Chemical Class | Inorganic salt; Alkali metal carbonate; Strong base |
| Physical State (20°C) | Solid (crystalline powder or granules) |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Color | White |
| Taste | Alkaline, salty (do not ingest) |
SECTION 2: PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
| Property | Value | Test Method / Note |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | White, crystalline powder or granules | Visual |
| Odor | Odorless | Olfactometric |
| Molecular Weight | 138.21 g/mol | Calculated |
| Density (20°C) | 2.43 g/cm³ | ASTM D4052 |
| Melting Point | 891°C | DSC |
| Boiling Point | Decomposes before boiling | – |
| pH (1% Solution, 20°C) | ~11.6 (highly alkaline) | pH Meter |
| Solubility in Water (20°C) | 111 g / 100 g water | General Method |
| Solubility in Water (Hot) | Higher (temperature dependent) | General Method |
| Solubility in Ethanol | Insoluble | General Method |
| Hygroscopicity | High (deliquescent) | – |
| Decomposition | Decomposes to K₂O and CO₂ at high temperatures | – |
| Heat of Solution | Endothermic (cools water) | – |
| Bulk Density | 0.8 – 1.2 g/cm³ (grade dependent) | – |
| Refractive Index | 1.531 | – |
| Surface Tension (10% Solution) | ~72 mN/m | – |
| K₂O Content | ~68% | – |
| Chloride (Cl) | ≤ 0.005% | Titrimetric |
| Sulfate (SO₄) | ≤ 0.005% | Turbidimetric |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 0.001% | AAS / ICP |
| Heavy Metals (as Pb) | ≤ 10 ppm | AAS / ICP |
SECTION 3: POTASSIUM COMPOUNDS COMPARISON
| Property | Potassium Carbonate (K₂CO₃) | Potassium Bicarbonate (KHCO₃) | Potassium Hydroxide (KOH) | Potassium Chloride (KCl) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CAS Number | 584-08-7 | 298-14-6 | 1310-58-3 | 7447-40-7 |
| Formula | K₂CO₃ | KHCO₃ | KOH | KCl |
| Molecular Weight | 138.21 | 100.12 | 56.11 | 74.55 |
| pH (1% Solution) | ~11.6 | ~8.2 | ~13.5 | ~7.0 |
| Solubility (g/100g water) | 111 | 33 | 112 | 34 |
| Alkalinity | Strong | Weak | Very Strong | Neutral |
| Primary Use | Glass, detergents, baking | Buffering, fire extinguishers | Soap, batteries | Fertilizer, salt substitute |
SECTION 4: CHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND REACTIVITY
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Chemical Character | Inorganic salt; Alkaline; Highly hygroscopic; Strong base; Excellent CO₂ absorber |
| Stability | Stable under normal conditions; Hygroscopic (absorbs moisture from air); Decomposes at high temperatures |
| Reactivity | Reacts with acids to form potassium salts and CO₂; Absorbs CO₂ to form potassium bicarbonate; Reacts with acidic oxides; Forms double salts with many metals |
| Incompatible Materials | Strong acids (violent reaction, CO₂ release), strong oxidizing agents, acidic oxides, moisture/humidity (deliquescence) |
| Polymerization | Does not polymerize |
| Decomposition Products (Heating) | Potassium oxide (K₂O), carbon dioxide (CO₂) |
| Acid Reaction | K₂CO₃ + 2HCl → 2KCl + H₂O + CO₂↑ |
| CO₂ Absorption | K₂CO₃ + CO₂ + H₂O → 2KHCO₃ |
| Hydrolysis | K₂CO₃ + H₂O → K⁺ + HCO₃⁻ + OH⁻ (alkaline solution) |
| Neutralization | Reacts with acids to form salts, water, and CO₂ |
| Deliquescence | Absorbs moisture from air and may form a liquid solution |
| Complexation | Forms complexes with metal ions in solution |
SECTION 5: PRODUCTION METHODS
Method 1: Electrolysis of Potassium Chloride (KCl)
Process: KCl + H₂O → KOH + Cl₂ + H₂; KOH + CO₂ → K₂CO₃
Description: Potassium chloride solution is electrolyzed to produce potassium hydroxide (KOH) and chlorine gas; KOH is reacted with carbon dioxide to form potassium carbonate. Most common industrial method.
Method 2: Leblanc Process (Ash Method)
Process: Plant ash (K₂CO₃) → Purification → Crystallization
Description: Plant ash (from burning wood/plants) is leached with water; The potassium carbonate is crystallized and purified; Traditional method; Less common today.
Method 3: Carbonation of Potassium Hydroxide
Reaction: 2KOH + CO₂ → K₂CO₃ + H₂O
Description: Pure potassium hydroxide is reacted with carbon dioxide gas; Yields high-purity potassium carbonate.
Method 4: Thermal Decomposition of Potassium Bicarbonate
Reaction: 2KHCO₃ → K₂CO₃ + H₂O + CO₂↑
Description: Potassium bicarbonate is heated to decompose; Produces potassium carbonate, water, and carbon dioxide; High-purity product.
SECTION 6: FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES AND MECHANISM OF ACTION
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Alkalizing Agent | Provides strong alkaline pH (11.6 in 1% solution); Neutralizes acids; Used in cocoa processing, wine making, and pH adjustment |
| CO₂ Absorber | Absorbs carbon dioxide to form potassium bicarbonate; Used in gas purification, air scrubbing, and CO₂ removal; Effective in high-temperature applications |
| Potassium Source | Provides essential potassium ions; Used in fertilizers, animal feed, and nutritional supplements; Essential for plant growth |
| Buffering Agent | Maintains pH in solutions; Used in laboratory and industrial applications; Prevents pH fluctuations |
| Water Softener | Precipitates calcium and magnesium ions; Removes hardness from water; Used in detergents and cleaning formulations |
| Drying Agent | Highly hygroscopic; Absorbs moisture effectively; Used to dry fruits and other products; Dehydration agent |
| Glass Former | Lowers melting point of silica; Improves glass properties; Used in television glass, optical glass, and specialty glass |
| Flux | Lowers melting point in ceramics and glass; Improves workability; Used in pottery and glazes |
| Soil Amendment | Increases potassium content in soil; Improves plant health and yield; Used in fertilizers (K₂O content ~68%) |
| Acid Neutralizer | Neutralizes acids in various processes; Used in chemical synthesis; pH control |
SECTION 7: MAIN APPLICATION AREAS
| Industry / Application | Function | Typical Use |
|---|---|---|
| Glass Manufacturing | Flux, potassium source | Television glass, optical glass, cathode ray tubes; Lowers melting temperature; Improves transparency |
| Food Industry (E501) | Acidity regulator, leavening agent | Cocoa processing (alkalization); Wine making; Baking (leavening agent); pH adjustment; Cheese production |
| Fruit Dehydration | Drying accelerator | Grape, pear, apple, apricot drying; Speeds up dehydration; Improves color and appearance |
| Detergents & Cleaning | Builder, water softener | Phosphate-free detergents; Water softening; Cleaning formulations; Dishwashing products |
| Agriculture | Fertilizer (potassium source) | Potassium-rich fertilizers (K₂O content ~68%); Soil amendment; Plant nutrition |
| Chemical Synthesis | Reagent, catalyst | Potassium source for chemical reactions; Buffer solutions; Laboratory reagent; CO₂ absorption |
| Flue Gas Treatment | CO₂ absorbent | Carbon dioxide removal from flue gases; Air purification; Acid gas scrubbing |
| Pharmaceutical | Electrolyte supplement | Potassium supplements; Electrolyte formulations; Tablet production; Oral rehydration salts |
| Soap & Cosmetics | Softening agent | Liquid soaps; Shampoos; Skin care products; pH adjustment |
| Water Treatment | Softening, pH adjustment | Water softening; pH control; Corrosion inhibition |
| Metallurgy | Flux, deoxidizer | Metal treatment; Welding fluxes; Deoxidizing agent |
| Fertilizers | Potassium source | NK (Nitrogen-Potassium) fertilizers; Micronutrient carrier; Potassium deficiency correction |
SECTION 8: QUALITY SPECIFICATIONS
| Parameter | Food Grade (E501) | Pharmaceutical Grade | Technical Grade | Test Method |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | White powder/granules | White powder/granules | White powder/granules | Visual |
| Assay (K₂CO₃) | ≥ 99.0% | ≥ 99.5% | ≥ 98.0% | Titrimetric |
| K₂O Content | ≥ 68.0% | ≥ 68.5% | ≥ 67.5% | Titrimetric |
| pH (1% Solution) | 11.0 – 12.0 | 11.0 – 12.0 | 11.0 – 12.0 | pH Meter |
| Loss on Drying (105°C) | ≤ 1.0% | ≤ 0.5% | ≤ 1.0% | Gravimetric |
| Chloride (Cl) | ≤ 0.005% | ≤ 0.002% | ≤ 0.01% | Titrimetric |
| Sulfate (SO₄) | ≤ 0.005% | ≤ 0.002% | ≤ 0.01% | Turbidimetric |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 0.001% | ≤ 0.0005% | ≤ 0.005% | AAS / ICP |
| Heavy Metals (as Pb) | ≤ 10 ppm | ≤ 5 ppm | ≤ 20 ppm | AAS / ICP |
| Arsenic (As) | ≤ 2 ppm | ≤ 1 ppm | ≤ 5 ppm | AAS / ICP |
| Lead (Pb) | ≤ 2 ppm | ≤ 1 ppm | ≤ 5 ppm | AAS / ICP |
| Insoluble Matter | ≤ 0.02% | ≤ 0.01% | ≤ 0.05% | Gravimetric |
| Particle Size | Customer requirement | Customer requirement | Customer requirement | Sieve / Laser |
SECTION 9: TOXICOLOGICAL PROFILE
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Acute Oral Toxicity (LD50, Rat) | ~ 1,870 mg/kg (moderate toxicity) |
| Acute Dermal Toxicity | May cause skin irritation |
| Acute Inhalation Toxicity | Respiratory tract irritation (dust) |
| Skin Irritation | Irritating; Corrosive in high concentrations |
| Eye Irritation | Causes serious eye irritation |
| Respiratory Irritation | May cause respiratory irritation |
| Chronic Toxicity | High doses may cause gastrointestinal irritation; Electrolyte imbalance |
| Carcinogenicity | Not classified as carcinogenic |
| Mutagenicity | Not mutagenic |
| Reproductive Toxicity | No reproductive toxicity |
| Target Organs | Eyes, skin, respiratory system, gastrointestinal system |
| Occupational Exposure Limit (8h TWA) | Not established (general dust limit applies) |
| Special Toxicity Note | Alkaline – causes irritation; Corrosive in high concentrations; Overdose may cause electrolyte imbalance (hyperkalemia); Food additive E501 approved; GRAS status for food use |
SECTION 10: GHS CLASSIFICATION AND LABELING
GHS Classification (in accordance with CLP and UN GHS):
| Hazard Class | Category | H-Statement |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Irritation | Category 2 | H315 |
| Eye Irritation | Category 2 | H319 |
| Specific Target Organ Toxicity (Single Exposure) | Category 3 | H335 |
Signal Word: WARNING
Hazard Pictograms: GHS07 (Exclamation Mark)
Hazard Statements (H-Codes):
| Code | Statement |
|---|---|
| H315 | Causes skin irritation |
| H319 | Causes serious eye irritation |
| H335 | May cause respiratory irritation |
NFPA 704 Hazard Classification:
| Health | Flammability | Reactivity | Special |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 0 | 1 | - |
| (Moderate health hazard) | (Will not burn) | (Moderate reactivity – CO₂ with acids) | (None) |
SECTION 11: PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS (P-CODES)
| Code | Statement |
|---|---|
| P261 | Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapors/spray |
| P264 | Wash hands thoroughly after handling |
| P271 | Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area |
| P280 | Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection |
| P302+P352 | IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of soap and water |
| P304+P340 | IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing |
| P305+P351+P338 | IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and continue rinsing |
| P312 | Call a POISON CENTER/doctor if you feel unwell |
| P332+P313 | If skin irritation occurs: Get medical advice/attention |
| P337+P313 | If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention |
| P362+P364 | Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse |
| P403+P233 | Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed |
| P501 | Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local/regional/national/international regulations |
SECTION 12: FIRST AID MEASURES
| Exposure Route | Action to Take |
|---|---|
| Inhalation | Remove to fresh air immediately. If respiratory irritation develops (dust inhalation), seek medical attention. |
| Skin Contact | Remove contaminated clothing. Wash with plenty of soap and water. If irritation persists, get medical attention. |
| Eye Contact | Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Keep eyelids open. Remove contact lenses if present. If irritation persists, seek medical attention. |
| Ingestion | Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. Drink plenty of water. Seek medical attention if large quantities are ingested. |
SECTION 13: FIREFIGHTING MEASURES
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Fire Hazard | Non-combustible. Does not burn. |
| Hazards Arising from Fire | Thermal decomposition produces potassium oxide fumes and carbon dioxide. |
| Suitable Extinguishing Media | Use extinguishing media suitable for surrounding fire. Water spray, CO₂, dry chemical powder, foam. |
| Unsuitable Extinguishing Media | None |
| Special Protective Equipment | Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), full protective clothing. |
| Special Precautions | Prevent dust from entering sewers and waterways. |
SECTION 14: STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Storage Conditions | Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area; PROTECT FROM MOISTURE and high humidity; Keep away from acids and direct sunlight. |
| Container Requirements | Tightly closed, moisture-proof containers (HDPE, lined steel drums, plastic bags with PE liner). |
| Materials to Protect From | Moisture, high humidity, strong acids, acid gases (CO₂ absorption) |
| Shelf Life | 24 – 36 months (in unopened original packaging, under proper storage conditions). |
| Stability Note | Very hygroscopic (deliquescent) – absorbs moisture and CO₂ from air; Keep container tightly closed after opening; Protect from excessive humidity. |
| Special Storage Requirements | Store in a dry, well-ventilated warehouse; Avoid exposure to rain, sun, and moisture; Opened containers must be resealed immediately; Store separately from acids. |
SECTION 15: PACKAGING OPTIONS
| Packaging Type | Quantity | Material |
|---|---|---|
| Multi-layer Paper Bag | 10 kg, 20 kg, 25 kg | PE-lined kraft paper bag (moisture-proof) |
| Plastic Bag | 5 kg, 10 kg, 25 kg | PE bag (inner-lined, sealed, moisture-proof) |
| Fiber Drum | 20 kg, 25 kg | PE-lined fiberboard drum |
| Plastic Drum | 25 kg, 50 kg | HDPE / Polypropylene (moisture-proof) |
| FIBC / Big Bag | 500 kg, 1000 kg | PE-lined, moisture-resistant PP woven bag |
SECTION 16: TRANSPORT INFORMATION
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| UN Number | Not regulated (non-hazardous) |
| Hazard Class | Not applicable |
| Packing Group | Not applicable |
| ADR/RID | Not regulated |
| IMDG Code | Not regulated (non-hazardous) |
| IATA (Air) | Not regulated (non-hazardous) |
| Marine Pollutant | No |
| Transport Temperature | Ambient temperature; Protect from moisture. |
SECTION 17: REGULATORY STATUS
| Region / Authority | Status |
|---|---|
| European Union | Food additive E501/E501i approved by EFSA; Not classified as hazardous |
| USA (TSCA) | Listed (TSCA Inventory) |
| USA (FDA) | GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) – 21 CFR 184.1002; Food additive E501 |
| Turkey | Food additive E501; Subject to KKDIK regulation; Fertilizer regulations apply |
| IARC | Not classified (non-toxic, non-carcinogenic) |
| NTP | Not listed |
| OSHA | Not regulated as toxic or carcinogenic substance |
| California (Prop 65) | Not listed |
| Halal | Yes |
| Kosher | Yes |
| Vegan | Yes |
SECTION 18: OTHER NAMES AND SYNONYMS
| Type | Name |
|---|---|
| Turkish Names | Potasyum Karbonat, Potas, Karbonik Asit Potasyum Tuzu, Tartar Tuzu, İnci Külü |
| English Names | Potassium Carbonate, Carbonic Acid Potassium Salt, Salt of Tartar, Pearl Ash, Potash, Dipotassium Carbonate |
| Chemical Names | Dipotassium carbonate; Carbonic acid, dipotassium salt; Potassium salt of carbonic acid |
| CAS Number | 584-08-7 |
| E Number | E501, E501i |
| Molecular Formula | K₂CO₃ |
| HS Code | 2836.40 |
| Synonyms | Potassium salt of carbonic acid, Pearl ash, Salt of tartar, Potash, Carbonate of potash |
SECTION 19: SUMMARY TABLE
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Product | Potassium Carbonate (E501) |
| CAS Number | 584-08-7 |
| Molecular Formula | K₂CO₃ |
| Molecular Weight | 138.21 g/mol |
| Appearance | White crystalline powder/granules |
| Density | 2.43 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | 891°C |
| Solubility in Water | 111 g/100 g water (high) |
| pH (1% Solution) | ~11.6 |
| Primary Function | Alkalizing agent, potassium source, CO₂ absorber, flux |
| Main Application Areas | Glass manufacturing, food (E501), detergents, fertilizers, chemical synthesis, flue gas treatment, pharmaceuticals |
| Shelf Life | 24 – 36 months |
| GHS Signal Word | WARNING |
| UN Number | Not regulated |
| Special Properties | Hygroscopic; Deliquescent; Strong base; CO₂ absorber; FDA GRAS; E501 approved |
SECTION 20: CRITICAL WARNINGS AND BEST PRACTICES
CRITICAL WARNINGS:
-
Causes skin irritation (H315) and serious eye irritation (H319). Wear protective equipment.
-
May cause respiratory irritation (H335). Avoid inhalation of dust. Use in well-ventilated areas.
-
Highly alkaline – pH ~11.6 (1% solution). Handle with care.
-
Hygroscopic / Deliquescent – absorbs moisture and CO₂ from air. Store in tightly closed, moisture-proof containers.
-
Not flammable. Stable under normal conditions.
-
Reacts with acids – releases CO₂; Store separately from acids.
-
Absorbs CO₂ – forms potassium bicarbonate; Keep container tightly closed.
-
Moderate toxicity – LD50 ~1,870 mg/kg (rat). Avoid ingestion.
-
Food additive E501 – approved for food use; GRAS status.
-
Not suitable for individuals with hyperkalemia – contains potassium.
BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS:
Glass Manufacturing: Use as flux and potassium source; Lowers melting temperature of silica; Improves transparency; Used in television glass, optical glass, cathode ray tubes; Dosage varies by glass formulation; Replaces sodium carbonate for specialty glass.
Food Industry (E501): Use as acidity regulator and leavening agent; Cocoa processing (alkalization) – neutralizes acidity; Wine making – pH adjustment; Baking – leavening agent; Cheese production – pH control; Dosage depends on application; Follow food-grade specifications.
Fruit Dehydration: Use as drying accelerator; Grapes, pears, apples, apricots; Speeds up dehydration; Improves color and appearance; Apply as dilute solution (1-5%) before drying; Traditional for raisins and dried fruit.
Detergents & Cleaning: Use as builder and water softener; Phosphate-free detergents; Precipitates calcium and magnesium; Improves cleaning efficiency; Dosage 5-20% of formulation.
Agriculture: Use as potassium fertilizer; K₂O content ~68%; Provides essential potassium for plant growth; Improves crop yield and quality; Soil application; Foliar spray possible; Use as NK (Nitrogen-Potassium) fertilizer component.
Flue Gas Treatment: Use as CO₂ absorbent; Removes CO₂ from flue gases; ~98% CO₂ capture efficiency; Air purification; Acid gas scrubbing; Higher efficiency than amine-based systems; Used in combined cycle power plants.
Chemical Synthesis: Use as laboratory reagent; Potassium source for chemical reactions; Buffer solutions; CO₂ absorption; pH adjustment; Drying agent; Precipitating agent.
Handling: Use in well-ventilated areas; Avoid dust formation; Use dust masks (N95/FFP2) when handling powder; Use gloves and safety goggles.
Personal Protective Equipment: Dust mask (N95/FFP2 or higher), safety goggles, chemical-resistant gloves (nitrile, neoprene), protective clothing.
Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly after handling; Do not eat, drink, or smoke while using.
Storage: Store in tightly closed, moisture-proof containers; Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area; Protect from moisture, acids, and CO₂; Opened containers must be resealed immediately; Shelf life: 24-36 months under proper conditions.
Spill Management: Sweep or vacuum (HEPA) and place in suitable sealed container; Avoid dust formation; Neutralize with dilute acid (if safe); Do not allow entry into drains or waterways.
Disposal: Dispose of in accordance with local, regional, and national regulations; Non-hazardous waste; Neutralize before disposal if required.
FOOD ADDITIVE E501 - SPECIAL NOTE:
Potassium carbonate (E501) is an approved food additive:
-
Approved Uses: Acidity regulator, leavening agent, stabilizer, thickener.
-
Food Products: Cocoa and chocolate products (alkalization), baked goods, wine, cheese, jams, confectionery, fruit processing.
-
Safety: EFSA approved; FDA GRAS; WHO JECFA approved (ADI: Not specified).
-
Maximum Usage: Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) – no specific limit.
-
Labels: May be labeled as "Potassium carbonate" or "E501".
COMPARISON: POTASSIUM CARBONATE vs SODIUM CARBONATE:
| Property | Potassium Carbonate (K₂CO₃) | Sodium Carbonate (Na₂CO₃) |
|---|---|---|
| Molecular Weight | 138.21 | 105.99 |
| Solubility (g/100g water) | 111 | 21.5 |
| pH (1% Solution) | ~11.6 | ~11.4 |
| Hygroscopicity | Very high (deliquescent) | Moderate |
| K₂O / Na₂O Content | 68% (K₂O) | 58% (Na₂O) |
| Primary Use | Specialty glass, food, fertilizers | Glass, detergents, paper |
| Cost | Higher | Lower |
LEGAL DISCLAIMER:
The information provided in this document is based on our current knowledge and experience and is presented in good faith. However, as all conditions of use are beyond our control, it does not constitute a binding specification or warranty. This Technical Data Sheet is for informational purposes only. Users are responsible for testing the suitability for their own applications. For complete safety, storage, use, handling, waste, and regulatory compliance information, please refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier.
