Potassium thiocyanate
| Formula: | CKNS |
| Chemical formula: | KSCN |
| Density: | 1.89 g/cm3 (20 °C) |
| Molar mass: | 97.18 g/mol |
| Bulk density: | ~750 – 1000 kg/m3 |
| CAS number: | 333 – 20 – 0 |
| EC indx number: | 615-004-00-3 |
| HS code: | 28380000 |
| EC number: | 206 – 370 -1 |
| Storage (temperature): | Without limitations. |
| SDS | available |
| R phrase: | R 20/21/22-32-52/53 |
| S phrase: | S 13-61 |
| Odour: | odourless |
| Form: | solid |
| Color: | colourless |
| pH value: | 5.3 – 8.5 (50 g/l 25 °C) |
| Solubility in water: | 208 g/l (20 °C) |
| Melting point: | 175 °C |
| Thermal decomposition: | 500 °C |
| Assay | ≤ | 98 | % |
| Description | Conforms | ||
| Solubility | Conforms | ||
| Identification | Conforms | ||
| pH | 5.3 – 8.5 | ||
| Chloride | ≤ | 0.01 | % |
| Sulphate | ≤ | 0.05 | % |
| Heavy metals | ≤ | 0.001 | % |
| Iron | ≤ | 0.0005 | % |
Potassium thiocyanate is a white to slightly yellow crystalline solid with a faint odor of thiocyanate. It is highly soluble in water and commonly used in laboratories and industry as a source of thiocyanate ions.
🏭⚗️ Production
Potassium thiocyanate is typically produced by the reaction of potassium cyanide with sulfur or by the reaction of ammonium thiocyanate with potassium hydroxide. It can also be prepared by neutralizing thiocyanic acid with potassium hydroxide.
🔬 Properties
The chemical formula of potassium thiocyanate is KSCN with a molar mass of approximately 97.18 g/mol. It forms monoclinic crystals that melt at about 149 °C. It is very soluble in water and slightly soluble in alcohol. The compound contains thiocyanate anions, making it reactive in coordination chemistry and organic synthesis.
🧪 Applications
Potassium thiocyanate is widely used as a reagent in chemical analysis, particularly in the detection of iron and other metal ions by forming colored complexes. It is also employed in photography, dyeing, and as a precursor in the synthesis of pharmaceuticals and agrochemicals.
⚠️ Safety
Potassium thiocyanate should be handled with care, as it can be toxic if ingested or inhaled in large amounts. It may cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Proper ventilation and the use of personal protective equipment such as gloves and goggles are recommended when handling this compound. It should be stored in a cool, dry place away from strong oxidizing agents.
