Potassium hydroxide, also known as lye, is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula KOH. Also commonly referred to as caustic potash. This ingredient has been considered as generally safe as a direct human food ingredient by the FDA, based upon the observance of several good manufacturing practice conditions of use.
Medically, potassium hydroxide (KOH) is widely used in the wet mount preparation of various clinical specimens for microscopic visualization of fungi and fungal elements in skin, hair, nails, and even vaginal secretions.
Recently, it has been studied for efficacy and tolerability in the treatment of warts. It was determined that topical KOH solution was found to be a safe and effective treatment of plane warts.
Potassium Hydroxide is widely used in various chemical, industrial, and manufacturing applications. it is also a precursor to other potassium compounds.
- Used as a pH control agent in the food industry.
- Used in the thickening of food.
- Used in making soap.
- Used as Paint and Varnish removers.
- Used as Liquid drain cleaners.
- Used in chip fabrication for semiconductors.
- Used as an electrolyte in alkaline batteries and in electroplating, lithography
- Used in the manufacturing of cuticle removers which is used in manicure treatment.
- Used in the identification of species of fungi.
- Used in mercerizing cotton.
- Used in alkalimetric titrations in analytical chemistry.
- Used in the manufacturing of liquid fertilizers.
NOTE : Any of above statements have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration (FDA).This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. This information provided is general and should not be taken as medical advice. We strongly advise you to have a test batch before use.
What is Potassium Hydroxide?
Potassium hydroxide is an inorganic compound which is denoted by the chemical formula KOH.
Potassium hydroxide is also known as caustic potash, lye, and potash lye. This alkali metal hydroxide is a very powerful base. The aqueous form of potassium hydroxide appears as a clear solution. In its solid form, KOH can exist as white to slightly yellow lumps, flakes, pellets, or rods. No characteristic odour can be attributed to this compound in its solid state.
What is potassium hydroxide used for?
Potassium hydroxide, or caustic potash, is used in a wide variety of industries. It is used in the chemical industry, mining, manufacturing of different compounds, fertilizers, in potassium soaps and in detergents.
What is potassium hydroxide in chemistry?
Potassium hydroxide, also called lye, is an inorganic compound containing the chemical formula KOH. Often commonly called caustic potash, it is a strong base that is sold in different forms including pellets, flakes, and powders.
What is the pH of KOH?
KOH is an example of a strong base which means that it dissociates completely in an aqueous solution into its ions. Although the pH of KOH or potassium hydroxide is extremely high (typical solutions typically range from 10 to 13), the exact value depends on the concentration of this strong base in water.
