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Potassium carbonate

CAS Number
584-08-7
EC Number
209-529-3
Chemical Formula
CH2O3.2K
Molecular Weight
138.205 g/mol

Description

Potassium carbonate (CAS 584-08-7 ), also known historically as pearl ash and commercially listed as E501i , is an inorganic alkali used across food, industrial, and chemical manufacturing sectors. It functions primarily as a pH regulator, buffering agent, and reaction catalyst in a broad range of formulations and processes. In food production, it acts as a leavening agent and pH modifier. This compound is essential in cocoa processing, noodle manufacturing, and confectionery, where controlled alkalinity directly affects texture and color. Glass and ceramic manufacturers rely on it as a flux. It is used to lower melting points in specialty glass formulations. In textile and leather processing, it serves as a scouring and dyeing auxiliary, helping to fix dyes and regulate bath pH during finishing. Personal care formulators incorporate it into hair care and skin preparations as an alkalizing agent to adjust product pH within target ranges. It is supplied as a white granular powder or fine powder. Granule grades are often preferred in industrial settings for reduced dust handling. Standard market grades include food-grade (E501i compliant), USP , and technical grade for various applications. Purity levels typically range from 99% for food and pharmaceutical applications, with technical grades available for industrial use. This ensures compliance with rigorous global manufacturing requirements. Contact us for supply of Potassium carbonate Request Quote

Other Names (Synonyms)

salt of wormwood | salt of tartar | pearl ash | Potassium carbonate, anhydrous | K2CO3 | Dipotassium carbonate | Carbonic acid, dipotassium salt | carbonate of potash | E501i

Key Technical Features

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

Physical Properties

Melting Point891 °C
Boiling Point1333.6 °C
Density2.29 g/cm³
Appearancewhite powder or granules
ColorYellow
Odorat 100.00?%. odorless
Formpowder
Water Solubility1120 g/L (20 ºC)
pH11.5-12.5 (50g/l, H2O, 20℃)

Safety & Handling

Warning
GHS07· IrritantGHS05· Corrosive

Hazard Statements

H302Harmful if swallowed
H315Causes skin irritation
H318Causes serious eye damage
H319Causes serious eye irritation
H335May cause respiratory irritation
H402Harmful to aquatic life
H412Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects

Precautionary Statements

P261Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray.
P264Wash … thoroughly after handling.
P270Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product.
P271Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area.
P273Avoid release to the environment.
P280Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection.
P317Get emergency medical help.
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.
P317If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help.
P364Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse.
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 Code28364000
Storage Class13 - Non Combustible Solids
WGK (Germany)1