Potassium acetate

• Kaliumethanoat ( IUPAC )
• E 261

White solid

Fixed

1.57 g · cm -3 ( 25 ° C)

292 ° C

Readily soluble in water ( 2560 g · l-1 at 20 ° C)

3250mg · kg -1 ( LD50, rat, oral)

-723.0 KJ / mol

Template: Infobox chemical / molecular formula search available

Of potassium acetate CH3COOK, is the potassium salt of acetic acid.

Properties

Potassium forms colorless, hygroscopic crystals which dissolve very well ( 2560 g / l at 20 ° C) in water. The crystals have a melting point of 292 ° C and decomposes at about 440 ° C. It is harmless to health. It occurs in three different crystal structures: a form exists from room temperature to 75 ° C, the second of 75 ° C to 155 ° C, the third form 155 ° C to the melting point.

Lattice parameter of the various modifications of potassium

Use

Potassium acetate is a food additive ( E261 ) and serves the acid regulation, ie the adjustment of the pH value ( buffering function ). Therefore, it is used as a preservative and acidifier and is mainly used in household vinegar (5 to 10) and vinegar (25 to 80, synthetic vinegar) used. High-purity potassium acetate is also used as starting components for the production of pharmaceuticals, such as penicillin G potassium. In addition, potassium acetate is added to the treatment of potassium deficiency. Because of its hygroscopic effect, it is used as a moisture remover. In aerospace potassium acetate is used as a biodegradable agent concrete surfaces at airports.

Production

Potassium acetate can be prepared by salt-forming reaction from potassium hydroxide and acetic acid.

Similarly, the synthesis of potassium carbonate and acetic acid is possible with evolution of carbon dioxide.