Quick Search
Potassium Diacetate is the potassium salt of acetic acid.
Potassium Diacetate is manufactured through the reaction between a potassium base such as potassium hydroxide or potassium carbonate with acetic acid.
Potassium Diacetate is an important macromineral with many physiological functions and is required for nerve conduction, cardiac, skeletal and smooth muscle contraction, energy generation, nucleic acid synthesis as well as mainlining the blood pressure and normal renal function.
CAS Number: 127-08-2
Molecular Formula: C2H3KO2
Molecular Weight: 98.14
EINECS Number: 204-822-2
Synonyms: potassium diacetate, 4251-29-0, Potassium diacetate, 97%, Potassium diacetate, 98%, Potassium diacetate, LR, >=99%, Potassium diacetate, BioXtra, >=99.0%, Potassium diacetate, ACS reagent, >=99.0%, Potassium diacetate, ReagentPlus(R), >=99.0%, Potassium diacetate, SAJ first grade, >=95.0%, Potassium diacetate, JIS special grade, >=97.0%, Potassium diacetate, Vetec(TM) reagent grade, 99%, Potassium diacetate, for molecular biology, >=99.0%, Potassium diacetate, meets USP testing specifications, Potassium diacetate, BioUltra, for molecular biology, >=99.0% (NT), Potassium diacetate, 99.98% trace metals basis, ~100 ppm Rb, <50 ppm Cs, Potassium diacetate, anhydrous, free-flowing, Redi-Dri(TM), ACS reagent, >=99.0%, Potassium diacetate, puriss., meets analytical specification of Ph. Eur., BP, E261, 99-101%Potassium diacetate 99.98% trace metals basis, ~100 ppm Rb, <50 ppm Cs;Potassium diacetate ACS reagent, >=99.0%;Potassium diacetate anhydrous, free-flowing, Redi-Dri(TM), ACS reagent, >=99.0%;Potassium diacetate puriss. p.a., >=99% (perchloric acid titration);Potassium diacetate puriss., meets analytical specification of Ph. Eur., BP, E261, 99-101%;Potassium diacetate ReagentPlus(R), >=99.0%;Potassium diacetate Vetec(TM) reagent grade, 99%;EPA608-PERFORMANCE CHECK SOLUTION.
Potassium Diacetate can be taken as a nutritional supplement with antihypertensive effects and prevention effects against hypokalemia.
Potassium Diacetate has several other common applications: (1) as a deicer; (2) as a food additive; (3) molecular biology applications such as DNA purification, tissue preservation, fixation and mummification; (4) Death penalty (5) as the catalyst during the production of polyurethanes.
Potassium Diacetate, KC2H302, is a white, deliquescent solid, soluble in water and alcohol, insoluble in ether, that melts at 292°C.
It is used as an analytical reagent, dehydrating agent, in medicine, and in crystal glass manufacture.
Potassium Diacetate can be prepared by treating a potassium-containing base such as potassium hydroxide or potassium carbonate with acetic acid: 2 CH3COOH + K2CO3→ 2 CH3CO2K + CO2 + H2O
This sort of reaction is known as an acid-base neutralization reaction. Potassium diacetate is the salt that forms along with water as acetic acid and potassium hydroxide are neutralized together.
Conditions/substances to avoid are: moisture, heat, flames, ignition sources, and strong oxidizing agents.
Potassium lactate is the potassium salt of L(+)-lactic acid, obtained by neutralisation of the acid of natural origin with a high purity potassium source.
Potassium Diacetate is produced naturally by living organisms as a by-product of the glycolysis.
Sodium diacetate (resp. potassium diacetate) is a compound of acetic acid and sodium acetate (resp. Potassium diacetate).
Potassium Diacetate, (CH3COOK) is the potassium salt of acetic acid. It is a hygroscopic solid at room temperature.
It can be prepared by treating a potassium-containing base such as potassium hydroxide or potassium carbonate with acetic acid: CH3COOH + KOH → CH3COOK + H2O
This sort of reaction is known as an acid-base neutralization reaction.
At saturation, the sesquihydrate in water solution (CH3COOK·1½H2O) begins to form semihydrate at 41.3 °C.
Potassium Diacetate is a chemical compound with the molecular formula C4H7KO2, consisting of potassium, acetate, and hydrogen atoms.
It is a white, crystalline, odorless salt that is commonly used in food preservation and as a food additive.
Potassium diacetate is often employed as a preservative to extend the shelf life of food products, as it inhibits the growth of bacteria and fungi.
Potassium Diacetate is particularly used in products like processed meats, cheeses, and condiments, where it helps to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.
In addition to its preservative properties, potassium diacetate is used as a buffering agent and pH regulator in certain food and beverage products.
It is also sometimes found in the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries, where it can function as a stabilizer.
Potassium Diacetate is favored over sodium-based preservatives for individuals seeking to reduce their sodium intake, as potassium is an essential mineral that is less likely to contribute to hypertension when used in appropriate amounts.
Potassium Diacetate is considered generally safe when used within the limits set by regulatory authorities like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
It provides an alternative to other preservatives, offering both functional benefits and a lower sodium content.
Potassium diacetate is a highly versatile compound that plays an important role in various industries, especially in food processing and preservation.
It is formed by neutralizing acetic acid (the main component of vinegar) with potassium carbonate or potassium hydroxide.
As a result, it combines the properties of potassium and acetate, making it an effective preservative and pH regulator in a variety of formulations.
In food processing, potassium diacetate is particularly valuable because of its ability to act as an antimicrobial agent.
Potassium Diacetate works by lowering the pH of food products, which creates an unfavorable environment for the growth of bacteria, molds, and yeast.
This action helps extend the shelf life of food products, reducing the need for refrigeration or other more intensive preservation methods.
Potassium Diacetate is commonly used in meat products like hot dogs, sausages, and deli meats, where it not only prevents spoilage but also enhances the flavor by imparting a mild acidity.
One of the key benefits of potassium diacetate, compared to sodium-based preservatives, is its lower sodium content.
This makes it a preferred choice in low-sodium or sodium-restricted diets.
Potassium Diacetate is an essential electrolyte that helps maintain proper cell function, nerve transmission, and muscle contraction, and its presence in potassium diacetate offers a nutritional advantage over sodium salts.
As a result, potassium diacetate is often included in "health-conscious" food formulations designed for consumers who want to manage their sodium intake.
Beyond processed meats, potassium diacetate is also used in other types of food and beverages.
For instance, Potassium Diacetate is sometimes used in the production of cheese, where it acts as a mold inhibitor, and in pickled products, where it helps control pH levels and preserve the food.
In beverages, particularly in acidic drinks such as fruit juices and flavored waters, potassium diacetate can act as a stabilizer, ensuring that the pH remains consistent throughout storage and preventing
microbial contamination.
It’s especially valuable in low-sodium food formulations because it provides a way to preserve foods without relying on high levels of sodium, which can have negative health implications.
Potassium diacetate is not just about extending shelf life; it also plays a role in improving food safety.
Its antimicrobial properties are particularly useful in preventing the growth of harmful bacteria like Listeria monocytogenes, which can thrive in refrigerated foods.
By lowering the pH of food, potassium diacetate helps inhibit the growth of these potentially dangerous pathogens, ensuring that the food remains safe to consume for longer periods.
This antimicrobial action also allows manufacturers to use less aggressive methods of preservation, which can help maintain the nutritional profile and sensory qualities of the food.
In addition to its use in food preservation, potassium diacetate has applications in the pharmaceutical industry as well.
Potassium Diacetate can act as a buffering agent in medications, particularly in effervescent tablets and other oral dosage forms, where controlling the pH of the formulation is important for stability and effectiveness.
Potassium Diacetate’s stabilizing properties ensure that active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) remain effective throughout their shelf life.
Melting point: 292 °C
Density: 1.57 g/cm³ at 25 °C (lit.)
Vapor pressure: <0.0000001 hPa (25 °C)
FEMA: 2920 | Potassium diacetate
Refractive index: n20/D 1.370
Flash point: >250 ℃
Storage temp.: Room temp
Solubility: 65% soluble in water, 35% soluble in alcohol, insoluble in most oils
pKa: 4.756 [at 20 ℃]
Form: Solid
Color: White to light brown
Specific Gravity: 1.57
Odor: Odorless
pH Range: 7 - 9 at 98.2 g/L at 25 °C
pH: 7.87 (1 mM solution); 8.33 (10 mM solution); 8.75 (100 mM solution); 9.06 (1000 mM solution)
Biological source: Synthetic
Water Solubility: 2694 g/L (25 ºC)
λmax: λ: 260 nm Amax: 0.04
λ: 280 nm Amax: 0.02
Sensitive: Hygroscopic
Hydrolytic Sensitivity: 0: forms stable aqueous solutions
Merck: 14,7605
BRN: 3595449
Stability: Deliquescent. Stable. Incompatible with strong oxidizing agents.
InChIKey: SCVFZCLFOSHCOH-UHFFFAOYSA-M
LogP: -3.72
Potassium diacetate is prepared by addition of potassium carbonate in a small volume of water to acetic acid solution, followed by evaporation and crystallization: K2CO3+ 2CH3COOH →2CH3COOK + H2O
Potassium diacetate is generally used as an acidity regulator, buffer, preservative and firming agent.
It is used as a diuretic and urinary alkalizer.
Before modern chemistry, Potassium Diacetate was variously called terra foliata tartari, sal Sennerti, tartarus regeneratus, arcanum tartari and sal diureticus.
In 1760 it was used in the preparation of Cadet's fuming liquid ((CH3)2As)2O, the first organometallic compound ever produced.
Potassium Diacetate is used as a food additive as a preservative and acidity regulator.
In the European Union, Potassium Diacetate is labeled by the E number E261; it is also approved for usage in the USAand Australia and New Zealand.Potassium hydrogen diacetate(CAS 4251-29-0 )with formula KH(OOCCH3)2 is a related food additive with the same E number as Potassium diacetate.
Preparation bacteriostatic Potassium lactate E326/Potassium diacetate E261 is a mixture of potassium salt of lactic acid, a naturally occurring food include in fermented milk products and potassium diacetate containing in its composition acetate and acetic acid.
The synergy of the ingredients is obtained mixture was sufficiently affecting the longer shelf life of food products.
Preparation bacteriostatic Potassium lactate E326/Potassium diacetate E261 inhibits the growth of microorganisms, including pathogens Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella, Clostridium botulinum and Listeria monocytogenes.
As a result, Potassium Diacetate protects consumers from the disease listeriosis, botulism and typhoid fever, which usually end in death.
Potassium Diacetate is used in non-food applications such as cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
In cosmetics, it serves as a stabilizer, preserving the integrity and quality of the product.
In the pharmaceutical industry, it can be used in formulations that require pH adjustment or to maintain the stability of the active ingredients.
From a chemical perspective, potassium diacetate is stable under a wide range of conditions, including varying temperatures and moisture levels.
Its solubility in water is relatively high, making it easy to incorporate into liquid formulations or solutions.
The compound is generally recognized as safe (GRAS) by the FDA when used in food products, and its use is regulated to ensure that it does not exceed safe concentrations.
In summary, potassium diacetate is a multi-functional compound with a variety of applications across food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries.
Its preservative, pH-regulating, and flavor-enhancing properties, combined with its lower sodium content, make it a valuable ingredient for products targeting health-conscious consumers.
Potassium Diacetate is a potassium salt of acetic acid, and its chemical structure is similar to Potassium diacetate.
However, the addition of acetic acid in the form of potassium diacetate gives it distinct characteristics, particularly when it comes to its buffering ability and acidifying properties.
Potassium Diacetate is highly soluble in water, which makes it easy to dissolve and use in liquid formulations.
When dissolved, it dissociates into potassium ions (K⁺) and acetate ions (CH₃COO⁻), which can lower the pH of a product, a key factor in its preservative action.
This acidity prevents microbial growth and extends the shelf life of food products by creating an inhospitable environment for spoilage organisms.
In the cosmetics industry, potassium diacetate is often found in formulations for personal care products such as shampoos, lotions, and skin creams.
Potassium Diacetate helps maintain the stability of the product by regulating the pH and preventing the growth of harmful microbes.
Its inclusion in cosmetics can also provide a mild acidic environment, which can be beneficial for products designed to balance the skin's natural pH or to enhance the effectiveness of certain active ingredients like exfoliants and acids.
Potassium Diacetate is considered a safe compound when used in food, cosmetics, and pharmaceuticals.
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved its use as a food additive, specifically for use in meat products and other food items as a preservative.
Potassium diacetate is classified as a Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) substance, meaning that it has been deemed safe for consumption based on extensive scientific evidence.
The FDA monitors its use to ensure that it is applied within safe limits, and food manufacturers must comply with these regulations.
In addition to FDA approval, potassium diacetate is also evaluated by international regulatory bodies such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), which has set acceptable levels for its use in food.
In Europe, it is also classified as a food additive, and its use is permitted under specific conditions.
Compared to some other chemical preservatives, potassium diacetate is considered relatively environmentally friendly.
As a compound derived from acetic acid (which is naturally occurring), it is biodegradable and does not pose significant risks to the environment when used in the amounts recommended for food preservation.
Furthermore, since potassium is an essential nutrient for both plants and animals, potassium diacetate's environmental impact is minimal when disposed of in accordance with regulations.
Uses:
Potassium diacetate is used in the manufacture of glass; as a softening agent for papers and textiles; as a dehydrating agent; and as a buffer.
In medicine it is used as an expectorant and diuretic.
Potassium diacetate was originally used in the preparation of Cadet's fuming liquid, the first organometallic compound produced.
Potassium diacetate is used as diuretic and urinary alkaliser, and acts by changing the physical properties of the body fluids and by functioning as an alkali after absortion.
Potassium diacetate, crystalline powder, USP is, as its name suggests, the potassium salt of acetic acid and is used as a catalyst for producing polyurethanes2) In the food industry it is used as a food additive, an acidity regulator and a preservative
Potassium diacetate is used as a catalyst in the production of polyurethanes.
Potassium diacetate can be used as a deicer instead of chloride salts such as calcium chloride or magnesium chloride.
It offers the advantage of being less aggressive on soils and much less corrosive, and for this reason is preferred for airport runways.
Potassium diacetate is, however, more expensive. Potassium diacetate is also the extinguishing agent used in class K fire extinguishers because of its ability to cool and form a crust over burning oils.
Potassium diacetate is used as a food additive as a preservative and acidity regulator.
In the European Union, it is labeled by the E number E261 ; it is also approved for usage in the USA and Australia and New Zealand.
Potassium diacetate (CAS: 4251-29-0) with formula KH(O2CCH3)2 is a related food additive with the same E number as Potassium diacetate.
In medicine, Potassium diacetate is used as part of replacement protocols in the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis because of its ability to break down into bicarbonate and help neutralize the acidotic state.
In molecular biology, Potassium diacetate is used to precipitate dodecyl sulfate (DS) and DS-bound proteins, allowing the removal of proteins from DNA.
Potassium diacetate is also used as a salt for the ethanol precipitation of DNA.
Potassium diacetate (as a substitute for calcium chloride or magnesium chloride) can be used as a deicer to remove ice or prevent its formation.
It offers the advantage of being less aggressive on soils and much less corrosive: for this reason, it is preferred for airport runways although it is more expensive.
Potassium diacetate is the extinguishing agent used in Class K fire extinguishers because of its ability to cool and form a crust over burning oils.
Potassium diacetate is used in processed foods as a preservative and acidity regulator.
In the European Union, it is labeled by the E number E261; it is also approved for usage in the USA, Australia, and New Zealand.
Potassium hydrogen diacetate (CAS #4251-29-0 ) with formula KH(OOCCH3)2 is a related food additive with the same E number as Potassium diacetate.
In medicine, Potassium diacetate is used as part of electrolyte replacement protocols in the treatment of diabetic ketoacidosis because of its ability to break down to bicarbonate to help neutralize the acidotic state.
In molecular biology, Potassium diacetate is used to precipitate Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) and SDS-bound proteins to allow their removal from DNA.
Potassium diacetate is used in mixtures applied for tissue preservation, fixation, and mummification.
Most museums today use a formaldehyde-based method recommended by Kaiserling in 1897 which contains Potassium diacetate.
This process was used to soak Lenin's corpse.
Potassium diacetate was incorrectly used in place of potassium chloride when putting a prisoner to death in Oklahoma in January 2015.
Charles Frederick Warner was executed on January 15, 2015 with Potassium diacetate; this was not public knowledge until the scheduled execution of Richard Glossip was called off.
In August 2017, the U.S. state of Florida executed Mark James Asay using a combination of etomidate, rocuronium bromide, and Potassium diacetate.
The drug was also used in the February 2023 execution of Donald Dillbeck, once again in combination with etomidate and rocuronium bromide.
Potassium diacetate is commonly used in the preservation of meat products like sausages, hot dogs, deli meats, and other processed meats.
Potassium diacetate inhibits the growth of spoilage bacteria, particularly Listeria monocytogenes, a harmful pathogen that can proliferate in refrigerated products.
By lowering the pH of the meat, potassium diacetate creates an acidic environment that is unfavorable for microbial growth, thus prolonging the freshness and safety of the product.
In the dairy industry, potassium diacetate is used to prevent mold growth and enhance the stability of cheeses.
It is particularly useful in processed cheese products, which are prone to spoilage.
Its antimicrobial action helps preserve the product while also maintaining its texture and flavor for longer periods.
Potassium diacetate is often found in pickled foods such as cucumbers, olives, and other vegetables.
Its role is to maintain the acidic environment necessary for preservation while preventing the growth of unwanted microorganisms.
Potassium diacetate helps stabilize the flavor and texture of pickled products, ensuring they remain safe and appealing during storage.
In beverages, particularly acidic drinks like fruit juices, flavored waters, and sports drinks, potassium diacetate is used to regulate pH levels and act as a preservative.
It helps to maintain the drink’s acidity, preventing microbial contamination and spoilage, especially when the product is stored for extended periods.
Additionally, it helps maintain the drink's flavor by stabilizing its acidic nature.
A major advantage of potassium diacetate is its lower sodium content compared to traditional sodium-based preservatives like sodium acetate.
It offers a healthier alternative for consumers who are mindful of their sodium intake, especially those who need to follow low-sodium or sodium-restricted diets.
Potassium diacetate helps preserve food without contributing to the high sodium levels that are often associated with health issues like hypertension and cardiovascular diseases.
Potassium diacetate also finds applications in the pharmaceutical industry, where its ability to act as a buffering agent and pH regulator is of great value.
Potassium diacetate is used in the formulation of various pharmaceutical products to maintain the stability and effectiveness of active ingredients. Some specific applications include:
Potassium diacetate is used in the preparation of certain oral and intravenous medications where controlling the pH is crucial for ensuring the stability and solubility of the drug.
By maintaining the appropriate pH, potassium diacetate can prevent degradation of the active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) and ensure consistent therapeutic effects.
In the formulation of effervescent tablets, which release carbon dioxide when dissolved in water, potassium diacetate serves as a key ingredient.
Potassium diacetate helps to control the pH of the formulation, ensuring that the effervescence occurs at the correct rate and that the tablet maintains its integrity during storage.
In intravenous (IV) solutions, particularly those that are intended to restore electrolyte balance or treat dehydration, potassium diacetate can be used to maintain the necessary pH balance.
Potassium ions are essential in these solutions to help replenish electrolytes, and potassium diacetate serves as a safe source of potassium while stabilizing the pH of the solution.
Potassium diacetate is frequently used in the cosmetics and personal care industry due to its stabilizing and pH-regulating properties.
It is found in a wide range of products, including skincare, haircare, and toiletries, where it serves multiple functions:
Many cosmetics, such as facial cleansers, shampoos, lotions, and creams, require precise pH regulation to be effective and gentle on the skin.
Potassium diacetate is often added to formulations to help balance the product’s acidity or alkalinity.
For example, in shampoos, it can be used to maintain the optimal pH for hair and scalp health, ensuring that the product cleanses without causing irritation.
Just like in food products, potassium diacetate is also used as a preservative in personal care products.
Its antimicrobial properties help prevent the growth of bacteria and mold in formulations, which is particularly important for water-based products like lotions, creams, and gels that are more prone to contamination.
Potassium diacetate’s buffering properties make it useful in skin care formulations that contain active ingredients such as alpha-hydroxy acids (AHAs) or salicylic acid. These ingredients need to be at a specific pH to be effective, and potassium diacetate helps to stabilize the pH, ensuring the product delivers its intended benefits while avoiding skin irritation.
In addition to its uses in food, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics, potassium diacetate can also be found in certain industrial applications, primarily for its chemical properties:
Potassium diacetate’s antimicrobial and acidic properties make it useful in certain industrial cleaning and sanitizing solutions.
It can be employed in cleaning formulations that require both acidification and antimicrobial action.
Potassium diacetate may be used in the cleaning of food processing equipment or in the formulation of industrial disinfectants.
Potassium diacetate may be used in some water treatment processes, especially in controlling pH and providing potassium ions for various chemical reactions.
In some cases, it can act as a softening agent or help stabilize certain water chemistry systems in industrial applications.
Though less common, potassium diacetate is sometimes used in agricultural products, particularly as a component in fertilizers.
Potassium diacetate is an essential nutrient for plants, and potassium diacetate can provide an effective, water-soluble source of potassium.
Potassium diacetate may be included in fertilizers designed to promote healthy plant growth, improving yields and overall plant health.
Potassium diacetate is used as a catalyst in the production of polyurethanes.
Potassium diacetate is primarily used in the food industry as a preservative.
One of its key roles is in extending the shelf life of food products by preventing the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria, molds, and yeast.
This antimicrobial property makes it invaluable in the preservation of perishable foods.
Safety Profile:
Like many chemicals, potassium diacetate can cause mild irritation if it comes into direct contact with the skin or eyes.
In the case of eye contact, it may cause redness or discomfort.
Similarly, skin exposure may lead to irritation, especially in individuals with sensitive skin.
Potassium diacetate’s advisable to wear protective gloves and goggles when handling the compound in industrial or laboratory settings.
Inhalation of potassium diacetate dust or powder can irritate the respiratory tract.
Prolonged or excessive exposure to dust particles may cause coughing, sneezing, or a sore throat.
Although potassium diacetate is generally not classified as highly toxic by inhalation, it is best to handle it in well-ventilated areas to minimize the risk of respiratory irritation.
Potassium diacetate is used in food products and is considered safe when consumed in regulated amounts.
However, ingesting large quantities could lead to gastrointestinal upset, such as nausea or diarrhea.
High doses of potassium salts in general may also disrupt electrolyte balance in the body and cause hyperkalemia (excessive potassium levels), which can affect heart function and cause muscle weakness.
Although rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to potassium diacetate or its components, such as acetic acid.
Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include rashes, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
In the event of a severe allergic reaction, medical attention should be sought immediately.
Potassium diacetate is water-soluble, and if released into waterways in large quantities, it may affect water quality by lowering the pH of the water.
This could potentially harm aquatic life, as many aquatic organisms are sensitive to changes in pH.
However, under normal use conditions, the amounts used are typically small and not likely to cause significant environmental harm.
If potassium diacetate is used in excessive quantities or disposed of improperly, there is a potential for it to affect soil pH.
Potassium salts can alter soil chemistry, which could impact plant health if the levels are too high.
However, when used as intended in fertilizers or food processing, this impact is minimal and not likely to pose a significant hazard.
