Potassium chloride (CAS 7447-40-7) is an ionic compound with a distinctive set of chemical properties that dictate its widespread utility across various industries. As a chemical supplier, we emphasize the importance of understanding these properties and the different grades available to ensure optimal application and compliance. Potassium chloride, a white crystalline powder, is known for its high solubility in water and glycerol, making it easy to incorporate into liquid formulations and processes.

Chemically, potassium chloride is an alkali metal halide. Its molecular formula is KCl, and it has a molecular weight of approximately 74.55 g/mol. It exists as colorless, elongated, prismatic, or cubital crystals, or as a white crystalline powder. The compound is odorless and has a distinctly salty taste. Its melting point is around 770°C, and it is relatively stable under normal conditions. These physical and chemical characteristics make it a reliable ingredient for many formulations.


The grade of potassium chloride is crucial and depends heavily on its intended application. Common grades include:

  • FCC (Food Chemicals Codex) Grade: Meets the requirements of the Food Chemical Codex and is suitable for food, beverage, and nutritional supplement applications. This grade often specifies purity levels like ≥99.0% and includes tests for heavy metals and other contaminants.
  • USP (United States Pharmacopeia) Grade: Complies with USP standards, making it suitable for pharmaceutical preparations and medical uses, particularly for treating hypokalemia.
  • Industrial Grade: Used in various industrial processes, such as water treatment, de-icing, and as a component in fertilizers, where the purity requirements may be less stringent than food or pharmaceutical grades.
  • Biotech/Laboratory Grade: High purity grades often used as reagents, calibration standards, or in cell culture media where precise ionic concentrations are critical.

As a leading supplier, we offer potassium chloride in various grades, ensuring that our clients can select the most appropriate product for their specific needs. Understanding these distinctions empowers businesses to make informed decisions when they buy potassium chloride powder, ensuring product efficacy and regulatory compliance. Our commitment is to provide transparency regarding the properties and grades of the chemicals we supply.