Lithium SlugsCAS #: 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, is a highly reactive alkali metal that plays a pivotal role in industrial chemistry and advanced material science. This soft, silvery-white element, a member of Group 1 in the periodic table, is defined by its extreme chemical activity, which, while posing significant handling challenges, enables a wide array of critical applications. From metallurgical processes to emerging energy technologies, potassium metal’s unique properties make it an essential material in driving industrial innovation and sustainable development.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

As industries increasingly focus on sustainability, the environmental footprint of potassium metal production and use has come under scrutiny:

Production Emissions: The electrolysis process for producing potassium metal is energy-intensive, primarily due to the high temperatures required to melt potassium chloride. However, advancements in renewable energy integration, such as using solar or wind power to supply electricity for electrolysis, are reducing the carbon footprint of production. In regions with abundant renewable energy, like Canada and parts of Europe, potassium metal production is becoming more environmentally sustainable.

Waste Management: Byproducts of potassium metal production, such as chlorine gas from electrolysis, are often recycled for use in other industrial processes, minimizing waste. Chlorine gas is a valuable raw material in the production of PVC, disinfectants, and other chemicals, creating a circular economy within the chemical industry.

End-of-Life Considerations: Potassium metal itself is not typically found in end-of-life products due to its reactivity, but products derived from it, such as titanium alloys and pharmaceuticals, have long lifespans, reducing the need for frequent replacement and minimizing overall resource consumption.

Sustainability Comparison with Other Alkali Metals

When compared to other alkali metals like lithium and sodium, potassium metal offers several sustainability advantages:

Abundance: Potassium is much more abundant in the Earth’s crust than lithium, with an estimated concentration of 2.09% compared to lithium’s 0.002%. This abundance reduces the environmental impact of mining and ensures a more stable supply chain, less vulnerable to resource depletion.

Mining Impact: Potassium chloride, the primary raw material for potassium metal production, is mined using relatively low-impact methods compared to lithium mining, which often involves extensive water use and environmental disruption in sensitive ecosystems.

Recyclability: While potassium metal itself is not recycled, the alloys and compounds derived from it, such as NaK alloys, can be recycled and reused in industrial processes, further reducing environmental impact. In contrast, lithium-ion batteries, which rely on lithium, present significant recycling challenges due to their complex composition.

Latest Safety Technologies and Innovations

Advancements in safety technology are addressing the handling challenges posed by potassium metal’s reactivity:

Advanced Storage Solutions: New packaging technologies, such as hermetically sealed containers with inert gas purging and moisture sensors, provide enhanced protection against air and moisture ingress. These containers are equipped with pressure relief valves to prevent explosion in case of accidental reaction, improving storage safety.

Remote Handling Systems: In industrial settings, robotic systems are increasingly used to handle potassium metal, reducing human exposure to potential hazards. These systems are designed to operate in sealed environments, minimizing the risk of accidental contact with air or water.

Real-Time Monitoring: Sensors that detect hydrogen gas and temperature changes are being integrated into handling facilities, providing early warning of potential reactions. This allows for rapid response to prevent accidents and ensure worker safety.

Emerging Applications in Sustainable Technologies

Beyond traditional uses, potassium metal is finding new applications in sustainable technologies:

Potassium-Based Energy Storage: Research into potassium-ion batteries (PIBs) is gaining momentum, with potassium metal being explored as an anode material. PIBs have the potential to be more sustainable than lithium-ion batteries due to potassium’s abundance and lower environmental impact of mining. Recent breakthroughs in electrolyte design have addressed some of the challenges associated with dendrite formation, bringing PIBs closer to commercialization.

Green Chemical Synthesis: Potassium metal is being used in innovative chemical synthesis processes that reduce the use of toxic solvents and reagents. For example, it is employed in the production of bio-based polymers, enabling the synthesis of environmentally friendly materials that degrade naturally.

Key Properties and Their Industrial Significance

Chemical Reactivity: Its ability to act as a powerful reducing agent is crucial in metallurgical processes, enabling the extraction of high-purity metals like titanium and zirconium. This reactivity also makes it valuable in chemical synthesis, where it facilitates the formation of complex molecular structures.

Thermal Properties: The low melting point (63.5°C) and high boiling point (759°C) of potassium metal make it suitable for use in high-temperature applications, such as heat transfer fluids in nuclear reactors and industrial furnaces.

Electrical Conductivity: While its reactivity limits its direct use in electrical applications, potassium metal’s good electrical conductivity makes it a valuable component in specialized alloys used in electronics and energy systems.

Handling and Safety Guidelines

Storage: Potassium metal must be stored in airtight containers filled with dry mineral oil or under an inert gas (such as argon) to prevent contact with air and moisture. Containers should be stored in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area, away from heat sources and incompatible materials.

Handling: When handling potassium metal, appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) must be worn, including flame-resistant gloves, goggles, and a lab coat. Handling should be done in a well-ventilated fume hood, using non-sparking tools to avoid igniting hydrogen gas.

Emergency Response: In case of a spill or fire, water should never be used. Instead, Class D fire extinguishers (graphite or sand) should be used to smother the fire. In the event of skin contact, the affected area should be immediately flushed with mineral oil to stop the reaction, and medical attention should be sought promptly.

Packaging and Availability

Packaging Options: Potassium metal is available in a variety of packaging options, including ingots, shavings, and pellets, packaged in sealed containers under mineral oil or inert gas. Custom packaging solutions are also available to meet specific customer requirements.

Availability: Potassium metal is supplied by a network of global producers, with availability varying by grade and quantity. Standard grades are generally readily available, while high-purity grades may have longer lead times due to additional purification steps.

For more information on the technical specifications, sustainability initiatives, or to place an order, please contact our dedicated sales team, which is committed to providing high-quality potassium metal and exceptional customer service.

Health & Safety Information

 Signal Word: Danger 

Hazard Statements: H260-H314 

Hazard Codes: F,C 

Precautionary Statements: P231+P232-P260-P303+P361+P353-P305+P351+P338-P501 

Flash Point: Not applicable 

Risk Codes: 14/15-34 

Safety Statements: 8-43-45 

RTECS Number: OJ5540000 

Transport Information: UN 1415 4.3/PG 1 

WGK Germany: 2 

GHS Pictogram: Image,Image

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.