1. Product Identification
- Product Name: Potassium Nitrate
- Chemical Formula: KNO₃
- CAS Number: 7757-79-1
- EINECS Number: 231-818-8
- Synonyms: Saltpeter, Nitric acid potassium salt
2. Physical Properties
- Appearance: White crystalline powder or colorless crystals
- Molecular Weight: 101.10 g/mol
- Melting Point: 334°C (633°F)
- Boiling Point: Decomposes at 400°C
- Density: 2.11 g/cm³
- Solubility in Water: Highly soluble, 316 g/L at 20°C
3. Chemical Properties
- pH: Neutral to slightly alkaline in aqueous solution
- Stability: Stable under normal conditions
- Reactivity: Strong oxidizer; reacts violently with reducing agents and combustible materials
- Decomposition Products: Releases toxic fumes of nitrogen oxides upon heating
4. Applications
- Fertilizers: Provides essential potassium and nitrogen nutrients for plant growth
- Food Industry: Used as a food preservative (E252) in cured meats
- Pyrotechnics: Key ingredient in fireworks and explosives
- Glass and Ceramics: Improves hardness and durability
