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Potassium chloride, also known as sylvite or sylvinite, is an important chemical raw material with a variety of industrial applications. As one of the main products of the potash industry, potassium chloride plays a crucial role in various sectors such as agriculture, the food industry, and chemical production. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the properties and uses of potassium chloride.

Properties of potassium chloride

Potassium chloride is a crystalline solid that is stable at room temperature. It has a white to colorless appearance and is highly soluble in water. With a density of about 1.98 g/cm³, potassium chloride is heavier than water. The melting point is 770°C, and the boiling point is 1420°C.

Chemically, potassium chloride consists of the elements potassium (K) and chlorine (Cl). It belongs to the group of alkali chlorides and has a cubic face-centered crystal structure. Potassium chloride is a salt that occurs naturally in the form of minerals such as sylvite or sylvinite.

Industrial applications of potassium chloride

Potassium chloride is used in numerous industrial sectors. Here are some of the most important areas of application:

Agriculture and fertilizers

One of the main applications of potassium chloride is its use as a fertilizer in agriculture. Potassium is an essential macronutrient for plants and plays an important role in their growth and development. Fertilizers containing potassium chloride help to increase the potassium content in the soil and thus boost agricultural yields.

Food and feed production

In the food industry, potassium chloride is used as an additive in food and feed. It serves, for example, as a flavor enhancer, preservative, or mineral source. Potassium chloride also plays an important role in the production of salts, cheese, baked goods, and other foods.

Chemical Industry

In the chemical industry, potassium chloride is an important starting material for the production of various chemicals. It is used, for example, in the production of potassium hydroxide, potassium carbonate, or potassium sulfate. These compounds are then used in the glass, ceramics, and dye industries.

Furthermore, potassium chloride is used in the oil and gas industry to produce drilling fluids. These serve to stabilize boreholes and protect equipment.

Medicine and pharmacy

In medicine and pharmacy, potassium chloride is used as an electrolyte supplement. It can be used to treat potassium deficiency to balance the potassium levels in the body. Potassium chloride also plays an important role in the production of infusion solutions.

Further applications

In addition to the main applications mentioned, potassium chloride is also used in other areas, for example:

• In glass manufacturing as a melting aid
• In the ceramics industry as a flux
• In photography as a component of developer solutions
• In textile finishing for the production of dye baths
• In water treatment for water softening

Procurement and storage of potassium chloride

Potassium chloride is a widely used industrial raw material that is mined and traded in large quantities. Many chemical companies and traders like ChemMarkt.de offer potassium chloride in various qualities and packaging sizes.

When storing potassium chloride, it should be kept in a dry place at room temperature. Direct contact with moisture should be avoided, as potassium chloride is hygroscopic and can absorb water from the surrounding air.

Conclusion

Potassium chloride is a versatile and indispensable industrial raw material with numerous applications. From agriculture to food production to the chemical industry – potassium chloride plays an important role in many sectors. With its excellent properties and good availability, potassium chloride will remain a sought-after raw material in the future.