Potassium Sulphate

Potassium Sulphate appears as a white crystalline salt which is soluble in water. It is also known as Potassium Sulfate, spelt with a letter 'f', Sulphate of Potash, Sulfate of Potash, Potash of Sulfur and Potash of Sulphur. Its chemical formula is K2SO4. In nature, Potassium Sulphate appears as a relatively rare mineral known as Arcanite. Potassium Sulphate is widely used in the manufacture of fertilizers for agriculture.

As far back as the 14th Century, Potassium Sulphate was known to early alchemists and was studied by Tachenius, Boyle and Glauber. Later, in the 17th Century, Potassium Sulphate became known as Arcanuni or Sal Duplicatum, as it was learned that Potassium Sulphate was a combination of an alkaline salt and an acid salt.

Potassium Sulphate also became known as Sal Polychrestum Glaseri or Glaser's Salt, named after the 17th Century pharmaceutical chemist, Christopher Glaser. He used Potassium Sulphate for medical purposes and had the mineral Glaserite named after him.

Although the main use of Potassium Sulfate is as a land fertilizer, it is also sometimes used in salt form in the manufacture of glassware. Potassium Sulphate is also used to reduce 'muzzle flash' in firearms. This is the visible light emitted at the point of discharge of a firearm. It is caused by the combustible properties of the gunpowder mixing with the air. It is important to try to reduce the severity of 'muzzle flash' as it can cause temporary blindness to the shooter and it can also give away the shooter's location, particularly at night. Potassium Sulphate works by suppressing the flash as the salts in Potassium Sulfate interfere with the oxygen/hydrogen combination.

Personal protective equipment (PPE) should be worn by persons handling or working with Potassium Sulfate, including protective clothing, foot protection, hand protection and approved eye protection. The material is stable but incompatible with strong oxidizing agents, Steel, Copper, Zinc and Aluminium. Potassium Sulfate is classified as non-hazardous for air, sea and road transport.

Containers of Potassium Sulphate should be stored in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from children and animals. Always keep containers tightly closed. If you have any queries about the use or handling of Potassium Sulphate contact your approved Potassium Sulphate supplier who will be pleased to give advice.