Description

KOH potassium hydroxide (potassium hydroxide)

The chemical formula of potassium hydroxide is KOH and its molar mass is 56.11 g/mol. The structure of KOH consists of an ionic bond between potassium metal cation and hydroxyl anion. Solid KOH is found in a rhombic crystal structure similar to sodium chloride.

KOH potassium hydroxide (potassium hydroxide)

The chemical formula of potassium hydroxide is KOH and its molar mass is 56.11 g/mol. The structure of KOH consists of an ionic bond between potassium metal cation and hydroxyl anion. Solid KOH is found in a rhombic crystal structure similar to sodium chloride.

Potassium hydroxide is used in many of the same applications as sodium hydroxide. In addition, aqueous KOH is used as an electrolyte in alkaline batteries.

It is also used to produce soft soaps and liquid soaps with saponification. Many industrially useful potassium salts are prepared by reaction with KOH. Some other uses of KOH are in chemical production, fertilizer production, oil refining and cleaning solutions.

Solid potassium hydroxide is used as an intermediate in a wide variety of manufacturing processes, from the production of pharmaceuticals and fertilizers, to its use in oil refining. In addition, it is a precursor of other potassium compounds. KOH is a solid with a high hygroscopicity, meaning it will absorb and hold water molecules from its surroundings, making it a useful laboratory desiccant (drying agent).

In addition to the above, potassium hydroxide is used in soap making, as an electrolyte in alkaline batteries, and in electroplating, lithography, and paint and varnish cleaners. Liquid drain cleaners contain 25-36% potassium hydroxide.

Medically, potassium hydroxide (KOH) is widely used in the preparation of wet mounts of various clinical samples for microscopic visualization of fungi and fungal elements in skin, hair, nails and even vaginal secretions.

It has recently been studied for its efficacy and tolerability in the treatment of warts. KOH topical solution was found to be a safe and effective treatment for airplane warts.