Potassium chlorate

Brief Overview

Potassium Chlorate (KClO₃) is a white coloured crystalline powder consisting of the elements Potassium, Chlorine, and Oxygen. It has a high boiling point of 752 ËšC and it is non-volatile at normal room conditions. However, when heated to high temperature it decomposes to produce toxic chlorine gas and potassium oxide fumes.

Manufacturing Process

Potassium Chlorate is commercially produced using Liebig’s process. This involves passing Chlorine gas through a hot potash soda solution. The resulting mixture is evaporated to extract Potassium Chlorate, Potassium Chloride, and Carbon Dioxide gas. The Potassium Chlorate Crystals are then removed, washed, and sent for further processing. 

Applications

Agriculture: It is widely used as a defoliant, herbicide, and microbiocide to plants/crops. It is also used for manipulating flowering in many fruit trees.

Pyrotechnics Industry: It is one of the major components used in fireworks, matchstick heads, and sometimes as a primer for guns.

Other applications: Electrical and electronic products.