Potassium hydrogen sulfate

Potassium hydrogen sulfate is an inorganic chemical compound with the molecular formula HKO4S and CAS number 7646-93-7. This acidic salt, also known as potassium bisulfate, has a molecular weight of 136.17 g/mol and appears as white crystalline crystals. It is classified as a corrosive substance with specific organ toxicity, requiring careful handling due to its hazardous properties indicated by the GHS danger signal word.

Potassium hydrogen sulfate is a white crystalline solid that is highly soluble in water, forming acidic solutions. The compound is odorless and has a density of approximately 2.32 g/cm³. It melts at around 214°C and is hygroscopic, meaning it readily absorbs moisture from air. The substance exhibits strong acidic properties due to the presence of the hydrogen sulfate ion, making it corrosive to metals and organic materials.

Potassium hydrogen sulfate is primarily used in analytical chemistry as a flux for decomposing silicate minerals and refractory materials. It serves as an acidifying agent in various industrial processes, including metal cleaning and surface treatment applications. The compound is also employed in the synthesis of other potassium salts, as a catalyst in organic reactions, and in specialized applications requiring controlled acidic conditions in laboratory and industrial settings.

Potassium hydrogen sulfate requires strict safety measures due to its corrosive nature and potential for causing severe skin burns. Essential personal protective equipment includes chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing. Work should be conducted in well-ventilated areas or under fume hoods. Avoid contact with skin, eyes, and clothing. Keep away from incompatible materials such as strong bases, metals, and organic materials. Always have emergency eyewash and safety shower facilities readily available.

Potassium hydrogen sulfate must be stored in tightly sealed, corrosion-resistant containers in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Keep away from incompatible materials including strong bases, metals, and combustible materials. Storage areas should be equipped with appropriate spill containment measures and be accessible only to trained personnel. Avoid areas with high humidity due to the compound's hygroscopic nature, and ensure containers are properly labeled with hazard information.

Immediate action is crucial due to the corrosive nature of potassium hydrogen sulfate. For skin contact, immediately flush with copious amounts of water for at least 15 minutes while removing contaminated clothing. For eye contact, rinse immediately with water for at least 15 minutes and seek medical attention promptly. If inhaled, move to fresh air immediately. In case of ingestion, do not induce vomiting and seek immediate medical attention. Always consult a physician after any significant exposure.

Potassium hydrogen sulfate disposal must comply with local, national, and international waste regulations as it is classified as hazardous waste. The substance should be neutralized carefully with appropriate alkaline materials under controlled conditions before disposal. Never dispose of in regular trash or pour down drains. Contact licensed hazardous waste disposal companies for proper treatment and disposal. Maintain proper documentation of waste disposal activities as required by environmental regulations.

Potassium hydrogen sulfate is classified under ADR as Class 8 (corrosive substances), Packing Group II, requiring specific transport regulations compliance. Use appropriate UN-approved packaging designed for corrosive materials. Transport vehicles must display proper hazard placards and carry emergency response information. Drivers require ADR certification for dangerous goods transport. Ensure proper documentation including transport documents and emergency procedures are available during transit. Avoid transport during extreme weather conditions.

Potassium hydrogen sulfate is subject to various regulatory frameworks including REACH registration requirements in Europe and CLP classification as a corrosive substance with STOT SE 3 properties. It is not listed as a Substance of Very High Concern (SVHC). The compound must be handled according to occupational safety regulations, with proper labeling including GHS pictograms GHS05 and GHS07. Industrial users must comply with workplace exposure limits and safety data sheet requirements.

Potassium hydrogen sulfate is available through OYSI, a specialized European distributor of technical chemicals serving industrial and laboratory customers across Europe. OYSI provides high-quality potassium hydrogen sulfate with proper documentation, safety data sheets, and regulatory compliance support. As an established chemical distributor, OYSI ensures reliable supply chains and technical support for customers requiring this corrosive specialty chemical for their industrial applications and research needs.