Potassium carbonate

Potassium Carbonate is an inorganic compound with the formula K2CO3. It is a white salt, which is soluble in water and forms a strongly alkaline solution. It can be made as the product of potassium hydroxide's absorbent reaction with carbon dioxide. It is deliquescent, often appearing a damp or wet solid. Potassium carbonate is used in the production of soap and glass.

History

Potassium carbonate is the primary component of potash and the more refined pearl ash or salts of tartar. Historically, pearl ash was created by baking potash in a kiln to remove impurities. The fine, white powder remaining was the pearl ash. The first patent issued by the US Patent Office was awarded to Samuel Hopkins in 1790 for an improved method of making potash and pearl ash.

Production

In addition to its traditional production methods, potassium carbonate can also be produced by the electrolysis of potassium chloride, which gives potassium hydroxide. The hydroxide is then carbonated using carbon dioxide to form potassium carbonate, which is often used to produce other potassium compounds.

Uses

Potassium carbonate is used in a variety of industrial and scientific applications. It is used in the production of glass, soap, and pottery. In cooking, it is sometimes used to maintain the alkalinity of certain foods, such as noodles and cocoa.

Safety

Like other alkaline compounds, it can cause burns to the eyes and skin upon contact, and inhalation or ingestion can be harmful. Proper safety measures should be taken when handling potassium carbonate.

See also

• Potash
• Pearl ash
• Potassium hydroxide
• Potassium chloride