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Potassium Chloride, Muriate of Potash, Potassium Muriate, 7447-40-7

Potassium Chloride, Muriate of Potash, Potassium Muriate, 7447-40-7

POTASSIUM CHLORIDE (KCl)

PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION

Parameter Information
Product Name Potassium Chloride
Chemical Name Potassium Chloride
Synonyms (Turkish) Potasyum Klorür, Potasyum Muriat, Kloresan, Potas Muriatı, Hidroklorik Asit Potasyum Tuzu
Synonyms (English) Potassium Chloride, Muriate of Potash, Potash Muriate, Sylvite, Chlorescent, Potassium Muriate, Hydrochloric Acid Potassium Salt
E Number Not applicable (E508 is Potassium Chloride in EU)
CAS Number 7447-40-7
EC Number 231-211-8
Molecular Formula KCl
Molecular Weight 74.55 g/mol
Appearance White cubic crystals, colorless, granular or powder
Odor Odorless
Taste Salty (similar to sodium chloride)

CHEMICAL STRUCTURE

Potassium Chloride Structure:

    K⁺  Cl⁻

Structure Description:

  • Ionic compound composed of potassium cation (K⁺) and chloride anion (Cl⁻).

  • White cubic crystals, colorless.

  • Salty taste (similar to table salt).

  • Highly soluble in water.

  • Completely dissociates in water into K⁺ and Cl⁻ ions.

  • Occurs naturally as the mineral sylvite.

SECTION 1: CHEMICAL IDENTITY AND DESCRIPTION

Parameter Information
Product Name Potassium Chloride
Chemical Name Potassium Chloride
Synonyms (Turkish) Potasyum Klorür, Potasyum Muriat, Kloresan, Potas Muriatı, Hidroklorik Asit Potasyum Tuzu
Synonyms (English) Potassium Chloride, Muriate of Potash, Potash Muriate, Sylvite, Chlorescent, Potassium Muriate, Hydrochloric Acid Potassium Salt
E Number Not applicable (E508 is Potassium Chloride in EU)
CAS Number 7447-40-7
EC Number 231-211-8
Molecular Formula KCl
Molecular Weight 74.55 g/mol
Chemical Class Inorganic salt; Halide; Electrolyte; Fertilizer
Source Natural (sylvite mineral, salt lakes) or synthetic
Physical State (20°C) Solid (crystalline)
Odor Odorless
Color White
Taste Salty

SECTION 2: PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES

Property Value Test Method / Note
Appearance White cubic crystals, colorless Visual
Odor Odorless Olfactometric
Taste Salty
Molecular Weight 74.55 g/mol Calculated
Density 1.98 g/cm³ ASTM D4052
Melting Point 770°C DSC
Boiling Point 1,420°C
Solubility in Water (20°C) 34.2 g/100 g (high solubility) General Method
Solubility in Ethanol Insoluble General Method
pH (Saturated Solution) ~7.0 (neutral) pH Meter
Conductivity High (in solution)
Refractive Index 1.490 (solid)
Hygroscopicity Low
Stability Stable under normal conditions
Potassium Content ~52.4% AAS / ICP
Chloride Content ~47.6%
Heavy Metals (as Pb) ≤ 10 ppm AAS / ICP
Arsenic (As) ≤ 2 ppm AAS / ICP
Lead (Pb) ≤ 2 ppm AAS / ICP
Loss on Drying ≤ 0.5% Gravimetric
Assay (KCl) ≥ 99.0 – 99.9% (grade dependent) Titrimetric

SECTION 3: POTASSIUM CHLORIDE vs OTHER SALTS

Property Potassium Chloride (KCl) Sodium Chloride (NaCl) Calcium Chloride (CaCl₂) Magnesium Chloride (MgCl₂)
CAS Number 7447-40-7 7647-14-5 10043-52-4 7786-30-3
Molecular Weight 74.55 g/mol 58.44 g/mol 110.98 g/mol 95.21 g/mol
Taste Salty Salty Bitter Bitter
Solubility in Water (20°C) 34.2 g/100 mL 35.9 g/100 mL 74.5 g/100 mL 54.3 g/100 mL
pH (Solution) 7.0 7.0 8.0-9.0 6.0-7.0
Hygroscopicity Low Low High High
Potassium Content ~52.4% 0% 0% 0%
Primary Use Fertilizer, salt substitute, medical Food, medical, chemical De-icing, drying De-icing, tofu coagulant
E Code E508 Not applicable E509 E511

SECTION 4: MECHANISM OF ACTION

Property Description
Electrolyte Balance Provides essential potassium (K⁺) and chloride (Cl⁻) ions; Maintains osmotic balance in cells; Regulates fluid balance; Essential for nerve impulse transmission; Essential for muscle function, especially cardiac muscle.
Blood Pressure Regulation Potassium helps regulate blood pressure; Counteracts the effects of sodium; Reduces risk of hypertension; Supports cardiovascular health.
Fertilizer (Nutrient Source) Provides plant-available potassium (K⁺); Potassium is an essential macronutrient for plants; Regulates water balance in plants; Activates enzymes; Improves crop yield and quality.
Salt Substitute Provides salty taste without sodium; Used for low-sodium diets; Reduces sodium intake; Supports blood pressure management.
Medical (Hypokalemia Treatment) Treats low potassium levels (hypokalemia); Oral or intravenous administration; Restores normal potassium levels; Prevents cardiac arrhythmias.
Osmotic Effect Creates osmotic pressure difference; Used in some medical applications; Affects fluid movement in tissues.

SECTION 5: PRODUCTION PROCESS

Industrial Production Methods:

Method 1: Mining of Sylvite Ore

Process Flow:
Sylvite Ore (KCl mineral) → Underground Mining → Crushing → Flotation / Crystallization → Washing → Drying → Screening → Final Product

Description: Sylvite ore (potassium chloride mineral) is mined from underground deposits. The ore is crushed, and KCl is separated by flotation or crystallization. The product is washed, dried, and screened.

Method 2: Solution Mining of Potash Deposits

Process Flow:
Potash Deposits → Solution Mining (Hot Water Injection) → Brine (KCl solution) → Evaporation → Crystallization → Centrifugation → Drying → Final Product

Description: Hot water is injected into potash deposits to dissolve KCl. The brine is pumped to the surface, evaporated, and crystallized to obtain KCl.

Method 3: Evaporation of Salt Lakes

Process Flow:
Salt Lake Brine → Solar Evaporation → Crystallization → Harvesting → Washing → Drying → Final Product

Description: Brine from salt lakes is evaporated using solar energy. KCl crystallizes and is harvested, washed, and dried.

SECTION 6: FUNCTIONAL PROPERTIES

Property Description
Fertilizer (Nutrient) Provides essential potassium (K⁺) for plant growth; Regulates plant water balance; Activates plant enzymes; Improves crop yield and quality; Essential for fruit and root development.
Salt Substitute Provides salty taste without sodium; Used in low-sodium diets; Reduces sodium intake; Helps manage blood pressure; Suitable for hypertension patients.
Electrolyte Essential for nerve function and muscle contraction; Maintains fluid balance and blood pressure; Used in medical and sports drinks; Essential for cardiac function.
Medical (Hypokalemia) Treats low potassium levels (hypokalemia); Oral or intravenous administration; Restores normal potassium levels; Prevents cardiac arrhythmias.
Food Additive Used as a thickener, stabilizer, and salt substitute; Food additive E508; Used in processed foods and beverages.
Chemical Raw Material Used in production of potassium hydroxide (KOH); Used in production of potassium compounds; Used in chemical synthesis.

SECTION 7: MAIN APPLICATION AREAS

Industry / Application Function Typical Use
Agriculture (Fertilizer) Potassium source, macronutrient Potash fertilizer (muriate of potash); Soil application; Improves crop yield and quality; Essential for plant growth; Dosage: 50-200 kg/ha (depending on crop and soil).
Food Industry Salt substitute, food additive (E508), stabilizer Low-sodium foods; Salt substitute products; Processed meats; Soups and sauces; Beverages; Dosage: 0.5-5% depending on product.
Medical / Pharmaceutical Electrolyte, hypokalemia treatment Oral potassium supplements; Intravenous solutions; Electrolyte replacement; Cardiac arrhythmia prevention; Dosage: 10-40 mEq/day (as supplement).
Chemical Industry Raw material, feedstock Potassium hydroxide (KOH) production; Potassium compounds production; Chemical synthesis; Catalyst production.
Water Treatment Water softener regeneration Ion exchange resin regeneration; Softening of hard water; Used as a sodium-free alternative.
Sports Nutrition Electrolyte replenishment Sports drinks; Electrolyte supplements; Prevents muscle cramps; Replenishes potassium lost through sweat.
Cosmetics Viscosity control, stabilizer Skin care products; Hair care products; Toothpaste; Stabilizer and thickener.

SECTION 8: SAMPLE FORMULATIONS

Salt Substitute Blend:

Component Amount
Potassium Chloride 50 – 80%
Sodium Chloride (reduced) 10 – 30%
Anti-caking Agents (Silica) 0.5 – 2%
Flavor enhancers (Citric Acid, etc.) As required

Instructions: Blend potassium chloride with other ingredients; Ensure uniform distribution; Package in moisture-proof containers.

Fertilizer Application (Potash):

Component Amount
Potassium Chloride (KCl) 50 – 200 kg/ha
Nitrogen (Urea or Ammonium) As required
Phosphorus (Phosphate) As required
Soil testing recommended

Instructions: Apply potassium chloride to soil based on soil test results; Incorporate into soil; Apply before planting or during growing season.

SECTION 9: QUALITY SPECIFICATIONS

Parameter Food Grade Pharmaceutical Grade Agricultural Grade (Fertilizer) Industrial Grade Test Method
Appearance White crystalline powder White crystalline powder White crystalline powder White crystalline powder Visual
Assay (KCl) ≥ 99.5% ≥ 99.5% ≥ 95.0% ≥ 99.0% Titrimetric
Loss on Drying ≤ 0.5% ≤ 0.3% ≤ 1.0% ≤ 0.5% Gravimetric
pH (1% Solution) 6.0 – 8.0 6.0 – 8.0 6.0 – 8.0 6.0 – 8.0 pH Meter
Heavy Metals (as Pb) ≤ 10 ppm ≤ 5 ppm AAS / ICP
Arsenic (As) ≤ 2 ppm ≤ 1 ppm AAS / ICP
Lead (Pb) ≤ 2 ppm ≤ 1 ppm AAS / ICP
Sodium (Na) ≤ 0.5% ≤ 0.1% ≤ 1.0% AAS / ICP
Magnesium (Mg) ≤ 0.01% ≤ 0.01% ≤ 0.5% AAS / ICP
Calcium (Ca) ≤ 0.01% ≤ 0.01% ≤ 0.5% AAS / ICP

SECTION 10: TOXICOLOGICAL PROFILE

Parameter Value
Acute Oral Toxicity (LD50, Rat) ~ 2,500 – 3,000 mg/kg (moderate toxicity)
Acute Dermal Toxicity Non-toxic; Non-irritating
Skin Irritation Non-irritating
Eye Irritation Mildly irritating
Inhalation Toxicity May cause respiratory irritation (dust)
Chronic Toxicity Excessive intake may cause hyperkalemia (high potassium); May affect cardiac function at high doses
Carcinogenicity Not classified as carcinogenic
Mutagenicity Not mutagenic
Reproductive Toxicity No reproductive toxicity at normal levels
Allergenicity Low allergenicity
Acceptable Daily Intake (ADI) Not specified (essential nutrient; recommended limit: <4,700 mg/day potassium)
Special Toxicity Note Essential nutrient for human health; Potassium is essential for nerve and muscle function; Excessive intake may cause hyperkalemia (especially in renal patients); Generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for food use; Safe at normal dietary levels; Avoid excessive consumption; Use caution in patients with kidney disease or those taking potassium-sparing diuretics.

SECTION 11: GHS CLASSIFICATION AND LABELING

GHS Classification (in accordance with CLP and UN GHS):

Hazard Class Category H-Statement
Not classified as hazardous according to CLP criteria

Signal Word: None (Not classified as hazardous)

Hazard Pictograms: None

NFPA 704 Hazard Classification:

Health Flammability Reactivity Special
0 0 0 -
(Minimal health hazard) (Non-flammable) (Stable) (None)

SECTION 12: PRECAUTIONARY STATEMENTS (P-CODES)

Code Statement
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
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 13: FIRST AID MEASURES

Exposure Route Action to Take
Inhalation Remove to fresh air immediately. If respiratory irritation develops, seek medical attention.
Skin Contact Wash with plenty of soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing. 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. Drink plenty of water. Seek medical attention if large quantities are ingested or if feeling unwell.

SECTION 14: FIREFIGHTING MEASURES

Parameter Information
Fire Hazard Non-flammable. May burn with thick smoke at high temperatures.
Hazards Arising from Fire Thermal decomposition produces no toxic products (KCl is stable).
Suitable Extinguishing Media 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. Avoid dust cloud formation.

SECTION 15: STORAGE AND SHELF LIFE

Parameter Information
Storage Conditions Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area; PROTECT FROM MOISTURE; Keep away from direct sunlight.
Container Requirements Tightly closed, moisture-proof containers (PE-lined bags, HDPE containers).
Materials to Protect From Moisture, strong acids
Shelf Life 36 – 60 months (3-5 years) in unopened original packaging, under proper storage conditions.
Stability Note Stable under recommended storage conditions; May cake if exposed to high humidity; Protect from moisture.
Special Storage Requirements Store in a dry place; Avoid exposure to air and moisture; Opened containers must be resealed immediately.

SECTION 16: PACKAGING OPTIONS

Packaging Type Quantity Material
PE-Lined Paper Bag 10 kg, 20 kg, 25 kg PE-lined kraft paper bag (moisture-proof)
Plastic Bag 1 kg, 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 17: 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 and heat.

SECTION 18: REGULATORY STATUS

Region / Authority Status
European Union Approved for food use; Food additive E508; REACH registered.
USA (TSCA) Listed (TSCA Inventory)
USA (FDA) GRAS (Generally Recognized as Safe) ; 21 CFR 184.1622; Approved for food use; Approved as salt substitute and food additive.
Turkey Approved for food, agricultural, and industrial use; Ministry of Agriculture approval for fertilizer use; Ministry of Health approval for food/pharma use; KKDIK regulation compliance required.
EFSA Approved for food use; Essential nutrient; No ADI specified.
JECFA Approved; Specifications included; No ADI specified.
USP/NF Potassium Chloride monograph listed.
EP (European Pharmacopoeia) Potassium Chloride monograph listed.
IARC Not classified (non-carcinogenic)
NTP Not listed
OSHA Regulated as nuisance dust
California (Prop 65) Not listed
Halal Yes (with certification)
Kosher Yes (with certification)
Vegan Yes (mineral, no animal ingredients)

SECTION 19: OTHER NAMES AND SYNONYMS

Type Name
Turkish Names Potasyum Klorür, Potasyum Muriat, Kloresan, Potas Muriatı, Hidroklorik Asit Potasyum Tuzu
English Names Potassium Chloride, Muriate of Potash, Potash Muriate, Sylvite, Chlorescent, Potassium Muriate, Hydrochloric Acid Potassium Salt
CAS Number 7447-40-7
EC Number 231-211-8
HS Code 3104.20

SECTION 20: SUMMARY TABLE

Parameter Value
Product Potassium Chloride (KCl)
CAS Number 7447-40-7
Molecular Formula KCl
Molecular Weight 74.55 g/mol
Appearance White crystalline powder
Melting Point 770°C
Solubility in Water (20°C) 34.2 g/100 g
pH (Saturated Solution) ~7.0
Primary Functions Fertilizer, salt substitute, electrolyte, chemical raw material
Main Application Areas Agriculture (fertilizer), food, medical, chemical, water treatment, sports nutrition
Shelf Life 36 – 60 months
GHS Signal Word None (Not classified as hazardous)
UN Number Not regulated
Special Properties Essential nutrient; Electrolyte; GRAS; Non-toxic; Stable; Abundant; Essential for plant growth; Low-sodium salt substitute; Versatile industrial uses.

SECTION 21: CRITICAL WARNINGS AND BEST PRACTICES

CRITICAL WARNINGS:

  • GRAS Status: FDA GRAS; EFSA approved; Safe for food, pharmaceutical, and agricultural use.

  • Essential Nutrient: Potassium is essential for nerve function, muscle contraction, and fluid balance.

  • Excessive Intake: May cause hyperkalemia (high potassium) in renal patients; Recommended limit: <4,700 mg/day for healthy adults.

  • Salt Substitute: Can be used to reduce sodium intake; May have a bitter aftertaste; Often blended with NaCl.

  • Non-Toxic: Non-toxic at normal use levels; Safe for consumption.

  • Hygroscopic: Low hygroscopicity; May cake if exposed to high humidity.

  • Fertilizer: Essential macronutrient for crops; Improves yield and quality.

  • Medical: Used to treat hypokalemia; Must be used under medical supervision for high-dose supplementation.

  • Incompatibilities: Reacts with strong oxidizing agents.

  • Abundant Resource: One of the most abundant and inexpensive fertilizers globally.

BEST PRACTICE RECOMMENDATIONS:

  • Agriculture (Fertilizer): Apply as potash fertilizer; Dosage: 50-200 kg/ha; Based on soil test results; Apply before planting or during growing season; Incorporate into soil; Monitor potassium levels in soil.

  • Food Industry: Use as salt substitute and food additive (E508); Dosage: 0.5-5% depending on product; Low-sodium foods; Processed meats; Soups and sauces; Often blended with sodium chloride to improve taste.

  • Medical/Pharmaceutical: Use as electrolyte and hypokalemia treatment; Oral supplements (tablets, powders); Intravenous solutions; Pharmaceutical grade required; Use under medical supervision; Monitor potassium levels.

  • Sports Nutrition: Use as electrolyte replenisher; Sports drinks; Electrolyte supplements; Prevent muscle cramps; Replenish potassium lost through sweat.

  • Handling: Use in well-ventilated areas; Avoid dust formation; Use dust masks when handling powder; Use gloves and safety goggles.

  • Personal Protective Equipment: Dust mask (N95/FFP2) if dust is generated, safety goggles, chemical-resistant gloves, protective clothing.

  • Hygiene: Wash hands thoroughly after handling; Do not eat, drink, or smoke while using; Remove contaminated clothing and wash before reuse.

  • Storage: Store in tightly closed, moisture-proof containers; Store in cool, dry, well-ventilated area; Protect from moisture; Opened containers must be resealed immediately; Shelf life: 36-60 months under proper conditions.

  • Spill Management: Sweep or vacuum (HEPA) and place in suitable sealed container; Avoid dust formation; Do not allow entry into drains or waterways; Dissolve in water if necessary.

  • Disposal: Dispose of in accordance with local, regional, and national regulations; Non-hazardous waste; Can be dissolved and discharged (check local regulations).

DETECTION METHODS:

Method Description Advantages Disadvantages
Titrimetric (Mohr Method) Argentometric titration with silver nitrate Simple, accurate, standard method Requires indicator
AAS / ICP Potassium determination High sensitivity, accurate High cost, requires expertise
Flame Photometry Potassium determination by flame emission Simple, standard method Requires specialized equipment
Ion Chromatography Quantitative analysis of potassium and chloride High sensitivity, accurate High cost, requires expertise
Conductivity Measurement Electrical conductivity of solution Rapid, simple Not specific
pH Meter pH of solution Simple, rapid Indicative only

POTASSIUM CHLORIDE vs ALTERNATIVES COMPARISON:

Product Chemical Name / E Code Application Strength Weakness Status
Potassium Chloride (KCl) KCl Fertilizer, food, medical Potassium source, salt substitute, essential nutrient Bitter aftertaste, high dose risk Widely approved
Sodium Chloride (NaCl) NaCl Food, medical, chemical Essential electrolyte, cheap High sodium, hypertension risk Widely approved
Potassium Sulfate (K₂SO₄) K₂SO₄ Fertilizer Sulfur + potassium No chloride, higher cost Widely approved
Kainite KCl·MgSO₄·3H₂O Fertilizer Magnesium + potassium Lower potassium content Widely approved
Potassium Nitrate (KNO₃) KNO₃ Fertilizer, explosives Nitrogen + potassium Oxidizer, explosive risk Regulated

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 and for complying with all local, regional, and national regulations. 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.

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