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Potassium ethylxanthate

CAS Number
140-89-6
EC Number
205-439-3
Chemical Formula
C3H6OS2.K
Molecular Weight
160.30 g/mol

Description

Potassium ethylxanthate (CAS 140-89-6 ), commonly known as KEX, is a xanthate collector salt used primarily in mineral flotation and selective metal recovery. It functions by selectively bonding to sulfide mineral surfaces. This chemical enables the efficient separation of minerals from gangue material in froth flotation circuits. In base metal mining, KEX is the standard collector for sulfide ores including copper, lead, zinc, and nickel concentrates. It drives recovery efficiency in flotation cells, ensuring high yields for mining operations. Gold and silver processing operations use it to float sulfide-associated precious metals that would otherwise report to tailings. In industrial water treatment, KEX precipitates heavy metal ions, including copper, mercury, and lead, from process effluents as insoluble xanthate complexes. This supports compliance with environmental discharge limits. Agrochemical formulators have also employed xanthate chemistry as a dithiocarbamate precursor in certain biocidal and soil treatment applications. The product is supplied as a yellow to pale green powder or granule. Granular forms are often preferred for handling and storage stability in mining operations. Standard commercial grades are specified by active content, typically 90% minimum purity for industrial use. Technical-grade material is the dominant market form for this chemical. Packaging is available in moisture-resistant bags or drums given the product's sensitivity to humidity and decomposition under storage. Contact us for supply of Potassium ethylxanthate Request Quote

Other Names (Synonyms)

Ethylxanthic acid potassium salt | Potassium ethyl xanthogenate | Potassium xanthogenate | Potassium O-ethyl dithiocarbonate | Ethyl potassium xanthate | Z 3 (Pesticide) | Carbonodithioic acid, O-ethyl ester, potassium salt (1:1) | Carbonic acid, dithio-, O-ethyl ester, potassium salt | KEX

Key Technical Features

  • High Purity Grade standard
  • Consistent Batch Quality
  • Full Regulatory & REACH Support
  • Global Logistics Network enabled

Physical Properties

Melting Point210 °C (decomp)
Boiling Point462.37°C[at 101 325 Pa]
Density1,558 g/cm 3
Flash Point96°C
AppearanceLight Green Solid
ColorYellow
FormCrystalline Powder
Water SolubilitySoluble in water.
Vapor Pressure0Pa at 25℃
pH9-10 (100g/l, H2O, 20℃)
Log P-2.24 at 25℃

Safety & Handling

Danger
GHS02· FlammableGHS07· IrritantGHS05· CorrosiveGHS06· ToxicGHS08· Health Hazard

Hazard Statements

H228Flammable solid
H302Harmful if swallowed
H311Toxic in contact with skin
H315Causes skin irritation
H317May cause an allergic skin reaction
H318Causes serious eye damage
H319Causes serious eye irritation
H332Harmful if inhaled
H335May cause respiratory irritation
H373May causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure H302+
H332Harmful if swallowed or if inhaled

Precautionary Statements

P203Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use.
P210Keep away from heat, hot surfaces, sparks, open flames and other ignition sources. No smoking.
P240Ground and bond container and receiving equipment.
P241Use explosion-proof equipment.
P260Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P261Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P262Do not get in eyes, on skin, or on clothing.
P264Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P270Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product.
P271Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
P272Contaminated work clothing should not be allowed out of the workplace.
P280Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.
P316Get emergency medical help immediately.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P318IF exposed or concerned, get medical advice.
P319Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell.
P321Specific treatment (see … on this label).
P330Rinse mouth.
P405Store locked up.
P501Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations.
P265Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P352IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water.
P340IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P317Get emergency medical help.
P317If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help.
P364Take off immediately all contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse.
P364Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse.
P378Use … for extinction.
P233Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed.
P338IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.
P338IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code29309090
WGK (Germany)3