POTASSIUM NITRATE- ▸ Fertilizer: Combined potassium and nitrate plant nutrient
- ▸ Oxidizer: Oxidizing agent in pyrotechnics and propellant formulations
- ▸ Glass manufacture: Fining and process aid in glassmaking
- ▸ Metal heat-treating: Component of molten-salt tempering baths
- ▸ Food curing: Color-retention and curing agent
A grade-specific Safety Data Sheet (SDS) — with the complete hazard classification, handling precautions, and transport information — is supplied with every shipment and available on request. Confirm all safety and regulatory details against the SDS for your specific grade.
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Transport classification per the UN Model Regulations / 49 CFR 172.101 Hazardous Materials Table. Confirm against the grade-specific SDS (Section 14) before shipping.
Potassium nitrate (CAS 7757-79-1) is the potassium salt of nitric acid, KNO3, and a strong oxidizer. Established uses include a combined potassium-and-nitrogen fertilizer, an oxidizer in pyrotechnics and propellant formulations, a raw material in glass manufacture, a component of molten-salt baths for tempering steel, and a color-retention and curing agent in food. It also serves in electroplating baths.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is potassium nitrate used for?
Potassium nitrate (KNO3, CAS 7757-79-1) is used as a combined potassium-and-nitrogen fertilizer, an oxidizer in pyrotechnics and propellant formulations, a raw material and fining aid in glass manufacture, a component of molten-salt baths for tempering steel, a color-retention and curing agent in food, and in electroplating baths.
What is the chemical formula for potassium nitrate?
Potassium nitrate is KNO3, the potassium salt of nitric acid, CAS 7757-79-1. This product is an ACS reagent crystalline grade.
Is potassium nitrate an oxidizer?
Yes. Potassium nitrate is a strong oxidizer, which is the basis for its use in pyrotechnics and propellant formulations and in molten-salt heat-treating baths. Consult the SDS for proper segregation and handling against combustibles.
What are the DOT shipping details for potassium nitrate?
Potassium nitrate is assigned UN 1486 and is classified as an oxidizer. Refer to the SDS for proper shipping name, packing group, and current transport requirements; the SDS ships with each order.
What does ACS reagent crystalline grade mean?
ACS reagent indicates the material meets American Chemical Society reagent-grade purity specifications, and crystalline describes the form. Request the CoA and SDS to confirm the lot specifications meet your analytical or process requirements; HS classification is 2834.21.