Potassium hydrogen carbonate

Potassium hydrogen carbonate, also known as potassium bicarbonate, is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula KHCO₃. It appears as a white, odorless, crystalline solid and is commonly used as a buffering agent, leavening agent, and fire suppressant.

🏭⚗️ Production
Potassium bicarbonate is produced by reacting potassium carbonate with carbon dioxide and water. This process yields potassium bicarbonate as a solid that can be filtered and dried for commercial use.

🔬 Properties
Potassium bicarbonate is a white, slightly basic, water-soluble salt. It decomposes when heated above 100 °C, releasing carbon dioxide and forming potassium carbonate. It is stable under normal conditions and exhibits mild alkalinity in aqueous solutions. It is non-flammable and generally regarded as safe.

🧪 Applications
• Used as a leavening agent in baking, particularly as a low-sodium alternative to sodium bicarbonate.
• Acts as a buffering agent in pharmaceuticals and personal care products.
• Employed as a fire suppressant, especially in dry chemical fire extinguishers for Class B and C fires.
• Used in agriculture as a fungicide and to adjust pH in soil and hydroponic systems.
• Occasionally used in carbonated beverages and dietary supplements as a source of potassium.