Potassium Carbonate – Food Grade (E501)

Description

Potassium Carbonate (E501) is a high-quality, food-grade compound used as a pH regulator, leavening agent, and stabilizer in the food and beverage industry. This versatile, odorless white crystalline powder or granule is valued for its high solubility, strong alkalinity, and non-toxic properties. Potassium Carbonate is commonly used in cocoa processing, noodle production, and beverage formulations to enhance quality and consistency.

Applications of Potassium Carbonate (Food Grade):

Industrial Applications

• Glass Manufacturing:
  • Acts as a flux in the production of specialty glasses such as optical, television, and laboratory glasses.
• Soap and Detergents:
  • Used as a builder or buffering agent to improve cleaning efficiency in soaps and liquid detergents.
• Ceramics:
  • Enhances the strength and quality of ceramics and pottery during manufacturing.
• Chemical Manufacturing:
  • Precursor in the production of potassium-based chemicals, such as potassium silicates and potassium cyanide.

Food and Beverage Industry

• Food Additive (E501):
  • Used as a pH regulator, buffering agent, and leavening agent in baking.
• Cocoa Processing:
  • Helps reduce the natural acidity of cocoa beans (alkalization), enhancing flavor and color.
• Brewing:
  • Regulates acidity and acts as a source of potassium in brewing processes.
• Gelatin Production:
  • Serves as a stabilizer in gelatin and other food products.

Agriculture

• Fertilizers:
  • Source of potassium, an essential nutrient for plant growth.
• Animal Feed:
  • Provides potassium in feed formulations for livestock and poultry.

Pharmaceuticals

• Active Ingredient:
  • Used in some medications as an electrolyte replenisher.
• pH Regulator:
  • Maintains alkalinity in pharmaceutical formulations.

Water Treatment

• Softening and pH Control:
  • Neutralizes acidity in water and prevents scaling in boilers and pipelines.
• Electrolyte in Electrolysis:
  • Used in specific water treatment processes.

Textiles and Dyeing

• Fabric Preparation:
  • Used in textile finishing to soften water and aid in scouring.
• Dye Fixation:
  • Improves the fixation of dyes on fabrics by adjusting alkalinity.

Cleaning and Soapmaking

• Industrial Cleaners:
  • Found in heavy-duty cleaning agents due to its alkaline and water-softening properties.
• Soap Production:
  • Acts as an essential alkali in making liquid soaps.

Laboratory and Research

• Buffering Agent:
  • Commonly used in laboratory settings to maintain pH levels in solutions.
• Reagent:
  • Utilized in various chemical reactions, including the synthesis of potassium compounds.

Personal Care

• Cosmetics:
  • Occasionally used as a pH adjuster in formulations like shampoos and skin products.

Fire Suppression

• Fire Extinguishers:
  • Utilized in certain dry chemical fire extinguishers due to its ability to smother flames.

Storage and Handling:

• Storage Conditions:
  • Store in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area.
  • Keep in tightly sealed, moisture-resistant containers to prevent clumping or degradation.
  • Avoid exposure to acids, as this can release carbon dioxide gas.
• Shelf Life: Approximately 2 years under recommended storage conditions.