Potassium iodate
| Chemical formula | KIO3 |
| Density | 3.98 g/cm3 |
| Molar mass | 214.0 g/mol |
| HS Code | 28299080 |
| CAS number | 05/06/7758 |
| Storage | Without limitation |
| EC number | 231-831-9 |
| SDS | available |
| R phrase | R 8-41 |
| S phrase | S 17-26-39 |
| Odour | oduorless |
| Form | solid |
| Color | white |
| p H value | ~6 (50 g/l 20°c) |
| Solubility in water | 92 g/l (20°c) |
| Melting point | 560 °C |
| Thermal decomposition | > 560 °C |
| Vapour pressure | low |
| Assay | 99.0 – 101.0 | % | |
| Description | Conforms | ||
| Identification | Conforms | ||
| Solubility | Conforms | ||
| Acidity,Alkalinity | Conforms | ||
| Chlorate | Conforms | ||
| Iodide | Conforms | ||
| Sulphate | Conforms | ||
| Heavy metals | Conforms | ||
| Loss on drying | ≤ | 0/1 | % |
Potassium Iodate is an inorganic chemical compound composed of potassium, iodine, and oxygen, widely used in medical, nutritional, and analytical applications.
🏭⚗️ Production
Potassium iodate is typically produced by reacting potassium hydroxide or potassium carbonate with iodic acid. It can also be obtained by oxidizing potassium iodide with strong oxidizing agents such as chlorine or bromine in alkaline conditions. The resulting compound is purified through crystallization and drying processes to yield a white, stable, crystalline solid.
🔬 Properties
Potassium iodate is a white, odorless, crystalline powder with the chemical formula KIO₃. It is highly soluble in water and has a molar mass of approximately 214 g/mol. The compound is a strong oxidizing agent and is thermally stable under normal conditions but may decompose at high temperatures, releasing iodine and oxygen. It is non-volatile and generally stable in dry air, but it should be protected from reducing agents and moisture.
🧪 Applications
Potassium iodate is commonly used as a source of iodine in iodized salt, particularly in regions where iodine deficiency is a public health concern. In emergency preparedness, it may be used in tablet form to protect the thyroid gland from radioactive iodine exposure during nuclear incidents. In analytical chemistry, it serves as a titrant in redox reactions. Additionally, it is employed in laboratory experiments and some pharmaceutical formulations as an oxidizer or stabilizer.
⚠️ Safety
Potassium iodate should be handled with care, as it can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory system upon direct exposure. Ingestion of large amounts may cause gastrointestinal distress or thyroid-related complications. It should be kept away from heat, flames, and incompatible materials such as reducing agents and organic substances. Protective equipment including gloves and goggles is recommended during handling, and it should be stored in a tightly sealed container in a cool, dry place. Waste disposal must be performed according to local environmental and safety regulations.
