Overview
Potassium carbonate (CAS 584-08-7 ), also known historically as pearl ash and commercially listed as E501i , is an inorganic alkali used across food, industrial, and chemical manufacturing sectors.
It functions primarily as a pH regulator, buffering agent, and reaction catalyst in a broad range of formulations and processes. In food production, it acts as a leavening agent and pH modifier.
This compound is essential in cocoa processing, noodle manufacturing, and confectionery, where controlled alkalinity directly affects texture and color. Glass and ceramic manufacturers rely on it as a flux.
It is used to lower melting points in specialty glass formulations. In textile and leather processing, it serves as a scouring and dyeing auxiliary, helping to fix dyes and regulate bath pH during finishing.
Personal care formulators incorporate it into hair care and skin preparations as an alkalizing agent to adjust product pH within target ranges. It is supplied as a white granular powder or fine powder.
Granule grades are often preferred in industrial settings for reduced dust handling. Standard market grades include food-grade (E501i compliant), USP , and technical grade for various applications.
Purity levels typically range from 99% for food and pharmaceutical applications, with technical grades available for industrial use. This ensures compliance with rigorous global manufacturing requirements.
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Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 891 °C |
| Boiling Point | 1333.6 °C |
| Density | 2.29 g/cm³ |
| Appearance | white powder or granules |
| Color | Yellow |
| Odor | at 100.00?%. odorless |
| Form | powder |
| Water Solubility | 1120 g/L (20 ºC) |
| pH | 11.5-12.5 (50g/l, H2O, 20℃) |
Safety & Handling
Warning GHS07 GHS05 Hazard Statements H302 Harmful if swallowed H315 Causes skin irritation H318 Causes serious eye damage H319 Causes serious eye irritation H335 May cause respiratory irritation H402 Harmful to aquatic life H412 Harmful to aquatic life with long lasting effects Precautionary Statements 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. P405 Store locked up. 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. P332+P317 Get emergency medical help. 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. P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. 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 | 28364000 |
| Storage Class | 13 - Non Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 |
Other Names
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Chemical Properties
- CAS Number
- 584-08-7
- EC Number
- 209-529-3
- Mol. Weight
- 138.205
- HS Code
- 28364000
- Category
- Catalysts & Catalyst Precursors