Molecular formula: K2CO3
Potassium Carbonate Pearl Ash high grade supplied in a aluminium resealable doypack, packed in Ribble Valley UK
USES
Pearl ash has been used for soap, glass, and china production.
Pearl ash added to hard water will soften the water.
In the laboratory, it may be used as a mild drying agent where other drying agents such as calcium chloride and magnesium sulfate may be incompatible. However, it is not suitable for acidic compounds, but can be useful for drying an organic phase if one has a small amount of acidic impurity.
Mixed with water it causes an exothermic reaction.
It is mixed with distilled water to make a safer electrolyte for oxyhydrogen production than potassium hydroxide, the more commonly used electrolyte.
In cuisine, it is used as an ingredient in the production of grass jelly, a food consumed in Chinese and Southeast Asian cuisines.
Potassium carbonate is being used as the electrolyte in many cold fusion experiments.
Potassium carbonate is sometimes used as a buffering agent in the production of mead or wine.
Aqueous potassium carbonate is also used as a fire suppressant in extinguishing deep fat fryers and various other B class related fires.
Potassium carbonate is used in reactions to maintain anhydrous conditions without reacting with the reactants and product formed.
It may also be used to pre-dry some ketones, alcohols, and amines prior to distillation.