What Is Potassium Bicarbonate?
Potassium bicarbonate is an inorganic compound known by its formula KHCO3, with a molecular weight of 100.12 g/mol. Assigned CAS number 298-14-6, it is produced through the reaction of carbon dioxide with a potassium bicarbonate solution.
This substance forms as white monoclinic crystals that are odorless, dissolving in water to create a slightly alkaline solution, but it remains insoluble in ethanol and glycerin.
Uses of Potassium Bicarbonate
Potassium bicarbonate serves various purposes, including as a biochemical reagent, analytical reagent, buffer, organic synthesis material, pharmaceutical, and food additive. It is instrumental in producing pure potassium carbonate, deacidifying wine, and acting as a fungicide against several plant diseases. In wine production, it mitigates excess tartaric acid, enhancing quality by precipitating insoluble potassium hydrogen tartrate.
Properties of Potassium Bicarbonate
While nonflammable and thus not a direct fire risk, potassium bicarbonate can release carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide gases upon strong thermal decomposition. Due to its hygroscopic nature, recommended storage is in a dry environment.
Other Information on Potassium Bicarbonate
1. Regulatory Information on Potassium Bicarbonate
- Covered under various regulatory frameworks, indicating its wide application and environmental consideration.
2. Precautions for Handling and Storing Potassium Bicarbonate
- Guidelines include avoiding acidic substances to prevent carbon dioxide generation and storing them in appropriate conditions and containers to maintain their stability and effectiveness.