Potassium iodide (KI) is an inorganic salt with the chemical formula KI. It is a crucial compound recognized for its wide range of applications, particularly as a source of iodine and as a versatile chemical reagent. As a solid, it typically presents as white or off-white crystals or a crystalline powder. Its appearance is often described as colorless crystals or a white crystalline powder, free from foreign matter.

One of the key characteristics of Potassium Iodide is its excellent solubility. It is readily soluble in water, making it highly bioavailable and easy to incorporate into various solutions and formulations. It also shows solubility in dilute acids and ethylene diamine, and ethanolamine. Conversely, it is only slightly soluble in liquid sulphur dioxide and ammonia, and notably insoluble in common organic solvents like alcohol and pure ammonia.

The quality of Potassium Iodide is paramount, especially for sensitive applications like food supplementation and pharmaceuticals. High-quality material, such as Food Grade Potassium Iodide, adheres to strict specifications to ensure purity and safety. Typical quality parameters include an assay of 99.0% minimum, indicating a high level of the desired compound. Impurities are carefully controlled, with maximum limits set for substances like sulfates (0.04% max), heavy metals (measured as Pb, 10 ppm max), and arsenic (measured as As, 2 ppm max). The loss on drying is also monitored, typically kept below 0.6% max, to ensure stability and proper handling properties. Other tests confirm the absence of harmful substances or unwanted alkalinity and the conformity of iodate and barium salts to established standards.

Potassium Iodide boasts a melting point around 618ºC and a boiling point of approximately 1345ºC, reflecting its stable ionic structure. Its density is approximately 3.13 g/cm³. The molecular weight is 166.003 g/mol.

The applications of Potassium Iodide are diverse and critical across numerous industries. One of its most significant roles is as a nutritional supplement for foods and feeds. Iodine is an essential micronutrient required for the synthesis of thyroid hormones, which are vital for metabolism, growth, and development. Iodine deficiency is a major global health problem, leading to conditions like goiter and intellectual disability. Potassium Iodide is widely used to iodize salt, fortification of animal feed, and in multivitamin or mineral supplements to combat this deficiency. Its high bioavailability makes it an ideal source of dietary iodine.

Beyond nutrition, Potassium Iodide serves as a key raw material in the preparation of other iodide compounds and certain dyestuffs. It is also historically significant as a sensitive emulsifier in classical silver halide photography, forming silver iodide which is light-sensitive. In analytical chemistry, it is used as a reagent, particularly in iodometric titrations to determine the concentration of oxidizing agents.

Furthermore, Potassium Iodide acts as a complex solubilizer for iodine and some metal iodides, increasing their solubility in aqueous solutions, which is useful in various chemical processes and formulations, including certain pharmaceutical preparations.

Maintaining the integrity and quality of Potassium Iodide during storage and transport is essential. It is typically packaged in robust containers like 25kg drums to protect it from moisture and light, as it can be slightly hygroscopic and photosensitive. Proper storage in a cool, dry, and dark place is recommended.

For those seeking a reliable manufacturer and supplier of high-quality Potassium Iodide powder, understanding the source and its commitment to quality is crucial. A reputable partner ensures consistent product specifications, adherence to food safety standards like HACCP if applicable, and reliable logistics. When looking to buy Potassium Iodide, factors like purity, packaging options, minimum order quantities, and technical support are important considerations. Enquiries regarding the current price of Potassium Iodide can be made directly to trusted suppliers, who can provide detailed quotations based on volume and required specifications.

As a leading source, NINGBO INNO PHARMCHEM CO.,LTD. is dedicated to providing premium grade Potassium Iodide powder meeting stringent international standards. We offer comprehensive support, including technical assistance and flexible delivery arrangements. For those planning to purchase Potassium Iodide for nutritional fortification, pharmaceutical use, or chemical synthesis, partnering with an experienced supplier guarantees access to a high-purity product essential for critical applications.