The Potassium Hydroxide collection at BVV features high-purity KOH, a fundamental strong base utilized across a vast spectrum of industrial and laboratory applications. Often referred to as Caustic Potash, Potassium Hydroxide is a highly versatile reagent known for its strong alkalinity and its role as a precursor to most soft and liquid soaps, as well as numerous potassium-containing chemicals.
Our Potassium Hydroxide is sourced for maximum consistency, providing the reliable performance required for complex organic synthesis, electrolyte formulation in alkaline batteries, and the transesterification process in biodiesel production. Due to its highly deliquescent nature and the exothermic reaction it produces when dissolved in water, BVV prioritizes moisture-resistant packaging and rigorous safety documentation. We provide scalable quantities from individual jars to bulk industrial sizing, all backed by our expert logistics team in Naperville, IL, to ensure compliant and rapid delivery to your facility.
What is Potassium Hydroxide (KOH) commonly used for?
Potassium Hydroxide is a strong base used in a variety of applications including the manufacturing of liquid soaps (saponification), biodiesel production, chemical synthesis, and as an electrolyte in alkaline batteries.
What is the difference between Sodium Hydroxide and Potassium Hydroxide?
While both are strong bases, Potassium Hydroxide is generally used to create soft or liquid soaps, whereas Sodium Hydroxide is used for hard bar soaps. KOH is also more soluble in alcohols and is often preferred for biodiesel transesterification.
Why is it called "Caustic Potash"?
The term "caustic" refers to its ability to burn or corrode organic tissue, and "potash" is the traditional name for various harvested potassium salts. Together, they describe this powerful alkaline chemical.
Is Potassium Hydroxide an exothermic chemical?
Yes. When Potassium Hydroxide is dissolved in water or alcohols, it releases a significant amount of heat. Always add the KOH to the liquid (never the other way around) to prevent sudden boiling or splashing.
How should I store Potassium Hydroxide safely?
Potassium Hydroxide is highly deliquescent, meaning it rapidly absorbs moisture from the air and can turn into a liquid. It must be stored in a tightly sealed, moisture-proof container in a cool, dry area away from acids.
What PPE is required when handling KOH?
Due to its highly corrosive nature, you should always wear chemical-resistant gloves, safety goggles or a face shield, and protective clothing. A fume hood or proper ventilation is recommended to avoid inhaling dust.
Can Potassium Hydroxide be used for pH adjustment?
Yes. In laboratory and industrial settings, KOH is frequently used to increase the pH of solutions. It is favored in applications where the addition of potassium ions is preferred over sodium ions.
What is the purity level of BVV Potassium Hydroxide?
We source high-purity technical and reagent-grade KOH to ensure consistent results in your formulations and reactions. Certificates of Analysis (COA) are available to verify specific batch purity.
Is Potassium Hydroxide classified as a Hazmat item for shipping?
Yes. Potassium Hydroxide is a Corrosive Solid (UN1813). BVV follows all DOT regulations for Hazmat shipping to ensure the material is transported safely and compliantly to your facility.
Does BVV offer bulk wholesale pricing for KOH?
Absolutely. We support commercial soap makers, biodiesel producers, and laboratories with bulk quantities and pallet pricing. Contact our sales team in Naperville, IL for a custom quote on large-volume orders.