Potassium thiocyanate

CAS: 333-20-0

Overview

Potassium thiocyanate (CAS 333-20-0 ), also sold under the trade name Rhocya and known in some markets as potassium rhodanide or potassium sulfocyanate, is an inorganic salt used across industrial and laboratory processes.

It serves as a reagent, catalyst precursor, and biocidal agent. Its high solubility and thiocyanate ion activity make it a functional input across water treatment, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and life sciences workflows.

In water treatment, KSCN is applied as a biocide and corrosion inhibitor, controlling microbial growth in industrial cooling and process water systems. Pharmaceutical manufacturers use it as a reagent in synthesis pathways.

It is also utilized as a reference standard in analytical testing protocols. In biotechnology and life sciences, it functions as a chaotropic agent in protein denaturation and cell lysis buffers, supporting purification.

The product also serves as a catalyst precursor in select organic synthesis applications where thiocyanate coordination chemistry drives reaction selectivity. This makes it a versatile chemical for complex manufacturing.

Potassium thiocyanate is supplied as a white crystalline powder or granule. Standard commercial grades include technical grade for industrial applications and high-purity grades meeting pharmaceutical and analytical specifications.

The material is manufactured to meet rigorous quality standards, including USP and ACS requirements where specified. Bulk quantities are available for industrial procurement, with smaller packaging for laboratory use.

Physical Properties

Melting Point	173 °C
Boiling Point	500°C
Density	1.956 g/cm³
Flash Point	500°C
Appearance	white crystalline powder
Color	colorless or white
Odor	Odorless
Form	Liquid
Water Solubility	2170 g/L (20 ºC)
Vapor Pressure	<0.001 hPa (20 °C)
pH	5.3-8.7 (25℃, 50mg/mL in H2O)
Log P	0.58

Safety & Handling

Danger GHS05 GHS07 GHS09 GHS08 Hazard Statements H302 Harmful if swallowed H312 Harmful in contact with skin H318 Causes serious eye damage H319 Causes serious eye irritation H332 Harmful if inhaled H372 Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure H400 Very toxic to aquatic life H412 Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects H302+H312+H332 Harmful if swallowed, in contact with skin or if inhaled Precautionary Statements P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P264 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P270 Do not eat, drink or smoke when using this product. P271 Use only outdoors or in a well-ventilated area. P273 Avoid release to the environment. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P317 Get emergency medical help. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P330 Rinse mouth. P391 Collect spillage. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P301+P317 Get emergency medical help. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P337+P317 If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention. Get emergency medical help. P362+P364 Take off contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P305+P351+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing. P305+P354+P338 IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing.

Trade & Regulatory

HS Code	28380000
Storage Class	13 - Non Combustible Solids
WGK (Germany)	1

Other Names

Industries

Water Treatment Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare Biotechnology & Life Sciences