permanganaatti

Potassium permanganate, KMnO4, commonly known as permanganate, is a dark purple crystalline salt widely used as a powerful oxidizing agent. It is highly soluble in water, and aqueous solutions are intensely purple at moderate concentrations. The solid is stable at room temperature but decomposes when heated, forming manganese dioxide and oxygen.

In redox terms, permanganate’s behavior depends on pH. In acidic solutions it is a strong oxidizer that is reduced to Mn2+. In neutral or alkaline solutions it is reduced more slowly, often yielding MnO2 as a brown precipitate. Because of its oxidizing strength, KMnO4 reacts readily with reducing agents and many organic materials, sometimes releasing heat.

Industrial production typically involves oxidation of manganese dioxide with potassium hydroxide to yield potassium manganate (K2MnO4), which is then oxidized to KMnO4 by chlorine or other oxidants in strongly basic conditions. It is manufactured worldwide and sold as a laboratory reagent and as a water treatment chemical.

Applications include oxidation of iron and manganese in drinking water, removal of hydrogen sulfide and other contaminants, and odor control. In analytical chemistry it serves as a standard oxidizing titrant in titrations and various qualitative tests. It is also used in textile bleaching, pulp processing, and certain decolorization procedures. Historically it has been used as a topical antiseptic in dilute solutions, though modern medical use is limited due to safety concerns.

Safety: KMnO4 is a strong oxidizer and can cause severe burns on skin or eyes. It can ignite or react violently with organic materials and reducing agents. Solutions can stain skin and fabrics purple. Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated place away from heat and incompatible reagents; handle with appropriate protective equipment.