3811-04-9.

  • Chemical Name: Potassium Chlorate
  • Molecular Formula: KClO₃
  • Molecular Weight: 122.55 g/mol.
  • CAS Number: 3811-04-9.
  • EINECS Number: 223-289-7.

Physical Properties

  • Appearance: Colorless or white crystalline powder or granules.
  • Melting Point: 356-368°C.
  • Boiling Point: Decomposes at around 400°C.
  • Density: 2.32 g/cm³.
  • Solubility: Soluble in water (73 g/L at 20°C), slightly soluble in glycerol, and insoluble in ethanol.
  • pH: Neutral to slightly acidic (pH around 6-7 in aqueous solution).

Chemical Properties

  • Oxidizing Agent: Potassium chlorate is a strong oxidizer and can decompose to release oxygen, especially in the presence of catalysts like manganese dioxide.
  • Decomposition: Decomposes at high temperatures (above 400°C) to release oxygen and form potassium chloride.
  • Reactivity: Forms explosive mixtures with organic materials, reducing agents, sulfur, phosphorus, and metal powders.
  • Reaction with Acids: Reacts with concentrated sulfuric acid to form unstable intermediates like chloric acid and chlorine dioxide.

Preparation Methods

  1. Electrolytic Method: Chlorine gas is bubbled through a hot solution of potassium hydroxide to form potassium chlorate.
    • Reaction: 6KOH+3Cl2​→KClO3​+5KCl+3H2​O.
  2. Reactions with Chlorine: Chlorine gas can also be reacted with potassium hydroxide to produce potassium chlorate.
  3. Reactions with Chlorates: Chlorates like sodium chlorate can be reacted with potassium chloride to form potassium chlorate.

Uses

  • Pyrotechnics and Fireworks: Used as an oxidizer in fireworks, smoke grenades, and matches.
  • Laboratory Reagent: Used to generate oxygen in chemical experiments.
  • Agriculture: Used as a defoliant and ripening agent for crops like cotton.
  • Explosives: Used in the manufacture of explosives and rocket propellants.

Safety and Hazards

  • Health Risks: Inhalation or ingestion can cause irritation, gastrointestinal issues, and methemoglobinemia.
  • Fire and Explosion Risk: Strong oxidizer; contact with organic materials or reducing agents can cause fires or explosions.
  • Storage and Handling: Store in a cool, dry place, away from combustible materials and reducing agents. Use protective equipment when handling.

Environmental Considerations

  • Toxicity: Decomposition products can be harmful to aquatic life.
  • Disposal: Dispose of in accordance with local regulations to avoid environmental contamination.

Packing and shipping