Join us for a Step by step to complete understanding of potassium hydroxide . We will first get acquainted with this material. Potassium hydroxide is a strong mineral alkaline compound with the chemical formula KOH. Non-combustible, hydrophilic and therefore highly corrosive to metal and textures. Easily absorbs atmospheric moisture and forms a caustic solution that attacks aluminum and zinc. Potassium hydroxide is also known as caustic potassium. It is a precursor to other potassium compounds. Highly soluble in water and free in ethanol. High heat is generated when dissolved in water or alcohol or when the solution is treated with acid. It is marketed as dry solid (90-92% potassium hydroxide) and as a solution (45-50% potassium hydroxide). Potassium hydroxide can be produced in several ways. It used to be made from wood ash, but today it is industrially produced by electrolysis of potassium chloride. In the solid state, about 90-95% of potassium hydroxide (caustic potash) is obtained by evaporating the potassium hydroxide solution. In the following, we will go to the applications of this substance step by step until the complete knowledge of potassium hydroxide. Therapeutic applications of potassium hydroxide In medicine, potassium hydroxide (KOH) is used to diagnose fungal hips or trichomonas. It is also used as a softener for nail grooves. It is a potent alkaline that has long been known to digest proteins, lipids, and most of the epithelial remnants of skin scratches to detect fungal infections. Potassium hydroxide is a powerful caustic that is used to kill warts. In Pharmacy Corrosion of potassium hydroxide makes it a very useful substance in decomposing, removing soft tissue and destroying hair. It is included in some nail products, shaving creams and soaps.
In making liquid soap, printing and varnish cleaners, plating, photo engraving and lithography, printing ink, in analytical chemistry for alkalimetric titration, electrolyte in alkaline storage batteries and some fuel cells, adsorbent of carbon dioxide and hydrogen sulfide, Dyes, liquid fertilizers, food additives, herbicides, plating, smelting, paint cleaners, bleaching agents, food and beverage hygienic chemicals, functional liquids (open systems), in oil production and refining, Antifreeze, building materials, etc. are used. It should be stored and used with caution, otherwise it will cause severe burns to the eyes, skin and mucous membranes. In the following, we will go to the environmental hazards of this substance step by step until we fully understand potassium hydroxide. Fire hazards This non-combustible material does not burn on its own, but may decompose when heated to produce corrosive or toxic fumes. Some of them are oxidizing and may ignite combustible materials (wood, paper, oil, clothing, etc.). Contact with metals may develop flammable hydrogen gas. Containers may explode when heated. Fire potential When wet, it attacks metals such as aluminum, tin, lead, and zinc, producing flammable hydrogen gas. Flammability Non-combustible solids, however, may react with H. Disposal methods Recycle any used material for approved use or return it to the manufacturer or supplier. For the final disposal of the chemical, you must keep in mind that this substance affects the air quality. It causes soil and water pollution and affects the lives of animals, aquatic animals and plants. Neutralization Carefully dissolved in water and neutralized with dilute acetic acid. Preventive measures Further processing of solids may lead to the formation of combustible dust. The potential for combustible dust formation must be considered before additional processing. Avoid contact with skin and eyes. Avoid the formation of dust and aerosols. Provide proper exhaust ventilation in places where dust has formed. Secure storage Keep strong acids and metals away from food. Store only in the original dry container. Potassium hydroxide residues are used as inactive (or sometimes active) substances in pesticide formulations for growing crops or post-harvest agricultural commodities if used in accordance with good agricultural practice.