Potassium hypochlorite

Agent Name
Potassium hypochlorite
CAS Number
7778-66-7
Formula
Cl-H-O.K
Major Category
Other Uses
Potassium hypochlorite formula graphical representation
Synonyms
Hypochlorous acid, potassium salt; Potassium chloride oxide; [ChemIDplus] UN1791
Category
Biocides/Disinfectants
Description
Aqueous solution: Clear to light yellow liquid with a pungent irritating odor like bleach; [KA Steel MSDS]
Sources/Uses
Permitted for use as an inert ingredient in non-food pesticide products; [EPA]
Comments
A strong oxidizing agent; [CAMEO] Aqueous solution: Contains 11.5-13% chlorine, 0.3-5% potassium hydroxide, and the balance water; Causes irritation and blistering on skin contact; Eye contact can cause redness, pain, and possibly permanent injury; Severe inhalation exposure may cause pulmonary edema; [KA Steel MSDS] See "Sodium hypochlorite."
Biomedical References

Exposure Assessment

Explanatory Notes
The Guide in the Emergency Response Guidebook is for "Hypochlorite solution."

Adverse Effects

Toxic Pneumonitis
Yes
Dermatotoxin
Skin burns
IARC Carcinogen
Not classifiable

Diseases, Processes, and Activities Linked to This Agent

Other Information
No other related information on this agent was found.