Potassium Tetraoxalate Dihydrate, Potassium Tetraoxalate, Dipotassium Tetraoxalate, 6100-20-5

Potassium Tetraoxalate Dihydrate, Potassium Tetraoxalate, Dipotassium Tetraoxalate, 6100-20-5

1. PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION AND CHEMICAL IDENTITY

CHEMICAL STRUCTURE AND EXPLANATION:

Potassium tetraoxalate dihydrate is an acidic salt of oxalic acid and potassium. Its formula contains one potassium ion (K⁺), two oxalate ions (C₂O₄²⁻), three hydrogen ions (H⁺), and two molecules of water of crystallization (2H₂O). This structure gives it a strongly acidic character as an "acid salt." When dissolved in water, it releases both potassium ions and oxalic acid/hydrogen ions, forming a solution with a very low pH (≈1.7). This property makes it particularly valuable as a primary standard substance in acid-base titrations.

Structural Features and Significance:

• Water of Crystallization: Contains two molecules of crystal water, which can be removed by heating at 100-110°C.

• Acidic Character: A strong acidic salt due to its high hydrogen ion content.

• Primary Standard Role: Its high purity and stable structure make it a reliable reference material for precise titrations in laboratories.

2. PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

Potassium tetraoxalate dihydrate is a white to off-white crystalline powder that is readily soluble in water, forming strongly acidic solutions (pH ≈1.7). Upon heating, it first loses its water of crystallization at 100-110°C and decomposes at higher temperatures.

3. SOLUBILITY PROFILE

Potassium tetraoxalate dihydrate is soluble in water. Its insolubility in non-polar organic solvents (e.g., ether) is consistent with its ionic structure.

4. CHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND REACTIONS

Potassium tetraoxalate is an acid salt that releases hydrogen ions (H⁺) when dissolved in water, creating a strongly acidic environment. The oxalate ions (C₂O₄²⁻) are strong chelating agents and can form stable complexes with metal ions such as calcium and iron. This property is important in analytical chemistry and solubility studies.

5. SPECIFICATIONS (ANALYTICAL GRADE)

Potassium tetraoxalate is manufactured in high purity as a primary standard material. Other impurity limits (heavy metals, calcium, iron, etc.) are strictly controlled for use in analytical laboratories. This ensures its reliability as a primary reference for precise titrations.

6. APPLICATIONS AND INDUSTRIAL USES

6.1. Analytical Chemistry and Laboratory (Most Important Application)

Potassium tetraoxalate's most fundamental and widespread use is in analytical chemistry. Its high purity, stability, and precise stoichiometry make it a reliable primary standard for determining the exact concentration of base solutions (e.g., sodium hydroxide) in laboratories.

6.2. Education and Teaching

6.3. Industrial Analysis

7. BIOLOGICAL AND TOXICOLOGICAL PROPERTIES

Potassium tetraoxalate is a toxic substance due to its oxalate ion content. Oxalates combine with calcium in the body to form calcium oxalate, a major component of kidney stones. Ingestion therefore poses serious health risks. Inhalation of dust can also irritate the respiratory tract.

8. SAFETY AND HAZARD INFORMATION

Potassium tetraoxalate is a substance harmful to health. Ingestion in particular can lead to oxalate poisoning and kidney damage. Contact with skin and eyes must be strictly avoided. Inhalation of dust can also cause irritation.

Hazard Statements (H-Phrases):

• H302: Harmful if swallowed.

• H315: Causes skin irritation.

• H319: Causes serious eye irritation.

• H335: May cause respiratory irritation.

Precautionary Statements (P-Phrases):

• P261: Avoid breathing dust.

• P280: Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.

• P301+P312: IF SWALLOWED: Call a POISON CENTER or doctor if you feel unwell.

• P305+P351+P338: IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do – continue rinsing.

9. TRANSPORT INFORMATION

Potassium tetraoxalate may be classified as a toxic substance during transport. Shippers must ensure containers are sealed and measures are taken to prevent dust dispersion.

10. REGULATORY INFORMATION

Potassium tetraoxalate is subject to chemical regulations worldwide. Users should carefully review local regulations and the MSDS document before use.

11. STORAGE AND HANDLING

Handling Notes:

• Avoid dust formation (use local exhaust ventilation).

• Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing.

• Keep away from food, beverages, and animal feed.

• Wash hands and face after work.

• For industrial and laboratory use only.

12. FIRST AID MEASURES

NOTE: In case of ingestion, urgent medical attention is required due to the risk of oxalate toxicity and kidney damage.

13. WASTE DISPOSAL

14. SUMMARY AND CRITICAL WARNINGS

SUMMARY:
Potassium tetraoxalate dihydrate (KH₃(C₂O₄)₂·2H₂O, CAS 6100-20-5) is an indispensable primary standard material in analytical chemistry. This acidic salt, with its high purity and stable structure, serves as a reliable reference in laboratories. It appears as a white to off-white crystalline powder, is soluble in water, and forms highly acidic solutions (pH ≈ 1.7).

Its most important application is in the standardization of base solutions (especially NaOH) in acid-base titrations. It is also used in buffer solution preparation and as a reference material in educational laboratories.

Because it contains oxalate ions, it is a toxic substance. Ingestion can lead to kidney damage and stone formation by binding calcium ions. Therefore, personal protective equipment (PPE) must be used during handling, and the MSDS must be carefully reviewed. Store in a cool, dry place away from oxidizers, in its original packaging. Shelf life is 24 months.

Key Properties:

CRITICAL WARNINGS:

1. TOXICITY: POISONOUS due to oxalate content. Ingestion can cause serious kidney damage. DO NOT INDUCE VOMITING AND SEEK IMMEDIATE MEDICAL ATTENTION.

2. USE: For industrial and laboratory use only. Not for use as food, beverage, or pharmaceutical.

3. PROTECTION: Use appropriate PPE (gloves, goggles, lab coat, dust mask) to avoid contact with skin, eyes, and respiratory tract.

4. STORAGE: Store in a cool, dry place, tightly closed, away from oxidizing agents.

5. DOCUMENTATION: Always read and understand the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier before use.

Disclaimer: This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only and is based on available data. The user is solely responsible for determining the suitability of the product for their specific application and for complying with all applicable local, national, and international safety and regulatory requirements. This document is not a substitute for the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS). Always refer to the official SDS before using the product.