Potassium hydroxide 0.5 kg

Potassium hydroxide or Potassium hydroxide is an alkali used to make liquid soap from scratch. Its other names are potassium caustic, potassium alkali, potassium hydroxide, KaOH. It appears as white flakes.

It is soluble in water, is a strong reagent, and can cause chemical burns. When working with potassium hydroxide, it is necessary to observe safety precautions.

If it is necessary to prepare semi-solid soap (cream soap), then in combination with potassium hydroxide it is necessary to use sodium hydroxide. In pure form, sodium hydroxide of high purity is suitable for the preparation of hard soap.

Combining with the fatty phase, the alkali (potassium hydroxide) reacts with the fats, starting the saponification process.

Working with potassium hydroxide

Working with caustic potassium requires compliance with safety precautions. It is obligatory to have gloves, respirator, as well as protective goggles. The sleeves of clothing should cover the hands. Potassium hydroxide is inactive in dry form, but in contact with skin may react with moisture, causing chemical burns. When dissolved in water emits poisonous vapors.

How to use potassium hydroxide

• Only specially purified lye intended for soap should be used.
• First of all, caustic potassium dissolves in the aqueous phase. At the same time, you can not pour the powder with water, as this will cause a violent reaction.
• The alkaline solution is introduced into fats.
• Fragrances are added.
• Weigh the alkali should be weighed to the nearest hundredth of a gram.

Storage: caustic potash should be kept out of reach of children and pets, in airtight and labeled containers.