Potassium Carbonate
Pearl Ash, Dipotassium Carbonate
- CAS
- 584-08-7
- EC
- 209-529-3
- Food Code
- E501
- Sectors
- Food & Nutrition, Coatings, Adhesives, Sealants & Elastomers
Potassium Carbonate (CAS 584-08-7), also called pearl ash or dipotassium carbonate, is a white hygroscopic potassium salt supplied as a powder or granules that dissolves in water to give mildly alkaline solutions, serving glass, fertilizer, detergent, food, photographic, rubber and soap uses. It has excellent buffering and deliquescent properties.
Typical Properties
| Molecular formula | CH2O3.2K |
|---|---|
| Molecular weight | 138.21 g/mol |
| Appearance | white powder or granules |
| Form | powder |
| Color | Yellow |
| Odor | at 100.00?%. odorless |
| Melting point | 891 °C |
| Boiling point | 1333.6 °C |
| Density | 2.29 g/cm³ |
| Water solubility | 1120 g/L (20 °C) |
| pH | 11.5-12.5 (50g/l, H2O, 20°C) |
| GHS signal word | Danger · Corrosive, Irritant / harmful |
| HS code | 28364000 |
| Grades available | Food Grade, Technical Grade |
Typical literature values for identification; lot-specific results are stated on the certificate of analysis (COA) and the safety data sheet (SDS) that accompany every delivery.
Potassium Carbonate
Applications
Used in glass, fertilizer, and detergent production. In food, it functions as a stabilizer and leavening agent. In the chemical industry, it’s applied in photographic solutions, rubber processing, and soap manufacturing.
Safety & Risks
Low toxicity but may irritate eyes and skin. Avoid contact with acids as CO₂ release may occur.
Packaging
Supplied in 25 kg plastic-lined woven bags or 1,000 kg big bags. Store cool, dry, and sealed to prevent caking.