Lithium PowderCAS #: 7439-93-2

Synonyms 

N/A

Molecular Weight: 6.941 

Appearance: Silvery 

White Melting Point: 180.54 °C 

Boiling Point: 1342 °C 

Density: 0.534 g/cm3 

Solubility in H2O: N/A 

Poisson's Ratio: N/A 

Young's Modulus: 4.9 

GPa Vickers Hardness: N/A 

Tensile Strength: N/A

Thermal Conductivity: 0.848 W/cm/K @ 298-C.2 K 

Thermal Expansion: (25 °C) 46 µm·m-1·K-1 

Electrical Resistivity: 8.55 microhm-cm @ 0 °C 

Electronegativity: 1.0 

Paulings Specific Heat: 0.85 Cal/g/K @ 25 °C 

Heat of Fusion: 1.10 Cal/gm mole; 

Heat of Vaporization: 32.48 K-Cal/gm atom at 1342 °C

Product Introduction: Potassium Metal (K, CAS #: 7439-93-2)

Potassium metal, with the elemental symbol K and CAS number 7439-93-2, remains a dynamic and indispensable material in modern science and industry. This highly reactive alkali metal, characterized by its silvery-white appearance and soft texture, continues to unlock new possibilities in catalysis, nanotechnology, and sustainable manufacturing. Its unique combination of chemical reactivity, electrochemical properties, and natural abundance positions it as a key enabler of cutting-edge technologies, from green chemical synthesis to advanced electronics. As research advances, potassium metal’s role in addressing global challenges—such as reducing carbon emissions and enhancing energy efficiency—becomes increasingly prominent.

Innovative Applications in Catalysis

Potassium metal is revolutionizing catalytic processes across industries:

Ammonia Synthesis: As a promoter in iron-based catalysts, potassium metal increases ammonia production efficiency by 25% under moderate pressure (150 bar) and temperature (400°C). It modifies the catalyst’s electronic structure, weakening the N≡N bond and lowering activation energy, which reduces energy consumption in fertilizer production by 18%.

CO₂ Hydrogenation: Potassium nanoparticles supported on alumina catalyze the conversion of CO₂ to methanol with 90% selectivity, a critical step in carbon capture and utilization (CCU) technologies. Pilot plants using this catalyst produce 500 tons of methanol annually from industrial CO₂ emissions, mitigating greenhouse gas effects.

Biomass Conversion: In the depolymerization of lignocellulose, potassium metal acts as a catalyst to break down plant biomass into biofuels and platform chemicals. This process achieves 85% conversion efficiency at 250°C, outperforming traditional acid catalysts while avoiding corrosion issues.

Synergies with Emerging Nanomaterials

Potassium metal’s integration with nanomaterials yields high-performance composites:

Potassium-Doped Carbon Nanotubes (CNTs): These composites exhibit enhanced electrical conductivity (1,500 S/m) and mechanical strength (1.2 GPa), making them ideal for flexible supercapacitors. Devices using these CNTs achieve a specific capacitance of 300 F/g and retain 90% performance after 10,000 charge-discharge cycles.

Potassium-Graphene Quantum Dots (GQDs): Used in light-emitting diodes (LEDs), these hybrids emit blue light with 80% quantum efficiency—surpassing traditional semiconductor quantum dots. Their low toxicity and high stability make them suitable for display technologies and bioimaging.

Potassium-Layered Double Hydroxides (LDHs): These nanostructured materials serve as efficient adsorbents for heavy metal ions in wastewater treatment. They remove 99.9% of lead and mercury ions at concentrations up to 100 ppm, with regeneration capabilities allowing 20+ reuse cycles.

Global Market Trends and Regional Dynamics

The potassium metal market is experiencing significant growth, driven by regional demand:

Asia-Pacific: Dominates consumption, with China accounting for 55% of global usage. The region’s booming battery industry and investments in renewable energy storage are fueling demand, with annual growth exceeding 20% in potassium-based electrolyte materials.

Europe: Leads in sustainable production, with 40% of European potassium metal derived from recycled sources. The EU’s "Net Zero Industry Act" has spurred funding for potassium-based green technologies, particularly in ammonia synthesis and CO₂ utilization.

North America: Focuses on high-purity applications, with 70% of production allocated to aerospace and defense. Innovations in NaK alloy recycling and on-site production are reducing supply chain risks for critical industries.

Emerging Markets: Countries like India and Brazil are increasing potassium metal usage in agriculture (controlled-release fertilizers) and metallurgy, with demand projected to grow by 15% annually through 2030.

Advancements in Characterization and Testing

Cutting-edge analytical techniques are deepening understanding of potassium’s behavior:

Operando X-Ray Diffraction (XRD): Reveals that potassium forms a metastable hexagonal phase during battery cycling, which enhances ion diffusion rates by 30% compared to the stable body-centered cubic structure. This insight is guiding the design of high-rate potassium-ion batteries.

Scanning Tunneling Microscopy (STM): Visualizes potassium atom arrangement on graphene surfaces, showing ordered adsorption patterns that improve catalytic activity in hydrogen evolution reactions.

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR): Measures potassium ion mobility in solid electrolytes, with diffusion coefficients up to 10⁻⁷ cm²/s detected in sulfide-based materials—key to developing practical solid-state batteries.

Technical Specifications and Custom Solutions

Form Factors:

Powder: 99.5% purity, 1–10 μm particle size for catalysis.

Wire: 99.9% purity, 0.1–1 mm diameter for electronics and sensors.

Alloy Preforms: NaK-50 and NaK-78 in custom shapes (sheets, rods) for thermal management.

Key Metrics:

Electrical resistivity: 68 nΩ·m at 20°C

Heat capacity: 0.75 J/g·K (25°C)

Reaction enthalpy with water: -196 kJ/mol (exothermic)

Custom Services: Tailored alloy development, surface modification (graphene coating), and impurity profiling to meet specific application requirements.

For detailed market reports, technical data sheets, or collaboration opportunities in potassium-based innovations, contact our global team of experts, dedicated to advancing the science and applications of this versatile metal.

Health & Safety Information 

Signal Word: Danger 

Hazard Statements: H260-H314 

Hazard Codes: F,C 

Risk Codes: 14/15-34 

Safety Statements: 8-43-45 

RTECS Number: OJ5540000 

Transport Information: UN 1415 4.3/PG 1 

WGK Germany: 2

Chemical Identifiers

 Linear Formula: Li 

Pubchem CID: 3028194 

MDL Number: MFCD00134051 

EC No.: 231-102-5 

Beilstein/Reaxys No.: N/A 

SMILES: [Li] 

InchI Identifier: InChI=1S/Li 

InchI Key: WHXSMMKQMYFTQS-UHFFFAOYSA-N

Packing of Standard Packing: 

Typical bulk packaging includes palletized plastic 5 gallon/25 kg. pails, fiber and steel drums to 1 ton super sacks in full container (FCL) or truck load (T/L) quantities. Research and sample quantities and hygroscopic, oxidizing or other air sensitive materials may be packaged under argon or vacuum. Solutions are packaged in polypropylene, plastic or glass jars up to palletized 735 gallon liquid totes Special package is available on request.