Kaliumchloride

Kaliumchloride, commonly known in English as potassium chloride (KCl), is an inorganic salt composed of potassium ions (K+) and chloride ions (Cl−). It appears as a white, odorless crystalline solid that dissolves readily in water and has a melting point around 770 °C. In solid form it adopts the rock-salt crystal structure and is highly soluble in water.

Production and occurrence: Kaliumchloride occurs naturally as the mineral sylvite and is a major component of potash ores. Commercially it is produced by mining potash ores or by extracting potassium-rich brines and refining the solution to crystallize KCl. In solution, it dissociates into K+ and Cl− ions, which is the basis for its uses in agriculture, food, and medicine.

Uses: The principal use of Kaliumchloride is as a source of potassium fertilizer for agriculture, supplying a key nutrient to crops. It is also employed in medicine and nutrition as a potassium supplement to treat or prevent potassium deficiency. In food processing, potassium chloride is used as a salt substitute and is designated as a food additive (commonly labeled as an alternative to sodium chloride). It has additional industrial applications where a potassium-containing electrolyte is required.

Safety and handling: Kaliumchloride is not flammable and is considered relatively stable under ordinary conditions. Concentrated solutions can be irritating to eyes and mucous membranes. Ingestion of large amounts can lead to hyperkalemia, with potential effects on heart function; medical use should be supervised. It is compatible with many materials but should be stored in a dry, cool place away from strong oxidizers. Environmental hazards exist at high concentrations, particularly for aquatic life.