Potassium fluoride

CAS: 7789-23-3

Overview

Potassium fluoride (CAS 7789-23-3 ), commonly abbreviated as KF, is an inorganic fluoride salt used across chemical synthesis, surface treatment, and industrial processing. It functions primarily as a fluorinating agent, flux, and catalyst in manufacturing operations where controlled fluoride ion delivery is required.

In pharmaceutical and fine chemical synthesis, KF serves as a nucleophilic fluorinating reagent, enabling halogen-exchange reactions to introduce fluorine into active pharmaceutical ingredients and specialty intermediates.

Electronics manufacturers use it as a flux and surface treatment agent for metal components, improving solderability and removing oxide layers prior to assembly. This ensures high-quality connections in sensitive electronic devices.

In textile and leather processing, KF-based formulations act as preservatives and pH buffers, controlling microbial activity and maintaining process bath conditions. This helps in achieving consistent results during large-scale production cycles.

Flame retardant compounding also draws on KF as a precursor or synergist, particularly in formulations targeting polymer and fiber substrates. Its chemical properties make it a versatile component in modern material science applications.

Potassium fluoride is supplied as a white anhydrous powder or granules, with anhydrous and dihydrate forms both available commercially. Standard grades include technical, reagent, and pharmaceutical-grade material.

Purity levels typically range from 98% to 99%+, meeting various industrial requirements. Packaging options commonly include moisture-resistant bags and drums suited to the compound's hygroscopic handling requirements.

Physical Properties

Melting Point	857.9 °C
Boiling Point	1502 °C @ Press: 760 Torr
Density	2.48 g/cm³ (solid)
Flash Point	1505°C
Appearance	White, crystalline, deliquescent powder; sharp saline taste.Soluble in water and hydrogen fluoride, insoluble in alcohol.
Color	White
Odor	Odorless
Form	spray-dried
Water Solubility	92.3 g/100 mL (18 ºC)
Vapor Pressure	1.3 hPa (885 °C)
Refractive Index	1.363
pH	7.0-8.5 (25℃, 1M in H2O)
Log P	-0.77 at 25℃

Safety & Handling

Danger GHS06 GHS05 GHS08 GHS09 Hazard Statements H301 Toxic if swallowed H311 Toxic in contact with skin H314 Causes severe skin burns and eye damage H318 Causes serious eye damage H330 Fatal if inhaled H331 Toxic if inhaled H341 Suspected of causing genetic defects H361 Suspected of damaging fertility or the unborn child H372 Causes damage to organs through prolonged or repeated exposure H301+H311+H331 Toxic if swallowed, in contact with skin or if inhaled Precautionary Statements P203 Obtain, consult and follow expert instructions for use. P260 Do not breathe dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P261 Avoid breathing dust/fume/gas/mist/vapours/spray. P262 Do not get in eyes, on skin, or on clothing. 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. P280 Wear protective gloves/protective clothing/eye protection/face protection. P284 In case of inadequate ventilation wear respiratory protection. P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P317 Get emergency medical help. P318 IF exposed or concerned, get medical advice. P319 Get medical advice/attention if you feel unwell. P320 Specific treatment is urgent (see … on this label). P321 Specific treatment (see … on this label). P330 Rinse mouth. P363 Wash contaminated clothing before reuse. P405 Store locked up. P501 Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local regulations. P264+P265 Wash … thoroughly after handling. P301+P316 Get emergency medical help immediately. P302+P352 IF ON SKIN: Wash with plenty of water. P304+P340 IF INHALED: Remove person to fresh air and keep comfortable for breathing. P361+P364 Take off immediately all contaminated clothing and wash it before reuse. P403+P233 Store in a well-ventilated place. Keep container tightly closed. P301+P330+P331 Rinse mouth. Do NOT induce vomiting. P302+P361+P354 IF ON SKIN: Take off immediately all contaminated clothing. Rinse skin with water/shower. 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	28261990
UN Number	1812
ADR Class	6.1
Packing Group	III
Storage Class	6.1C - Combustible acute toxic Cat.3 toxic compounds or compounds which causing chronic effects
WGK (Germany)	3

Other Names

Industries

Textile, Leather & Paper Electronics Pharmaceuticals & Healthcare