Chemical Properties
Potassium octanoate is a clear, colourless liquid, and its 70% solution is soluble in diethylene glycol and commonly used as a standard PIR catalyst.
Uses
Potassium octanoate is a salt formed from caproic acid and potassium and is used as a food additive. It is used to prevent rancidity in oils made from unsaturated fatty acids. In the field of medicine, potassium octanoate has also been shown to have beneficial effects on the heart, such as slowing the heart rate and reducing arrhythmias. This compound has been shown to have physiological effects on the human body, including lowering serum cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Studies have also shown that Potassium octanoate inhibits prostaglandin synthesis, thereby reducing inflammation. In addition, it is used as a cleaning agent, corrosion inhibitor, drying, lubricant and surfactant in other industries.
Application
Potassium octoate can be used as a tripolymerisation catalyst in the production of polyisocyanurates. Its primary function is to promote the chemical reaction leading to the formation of isocyanurate rings. This is crucial for the rigid structure and thermal stability of the polymer. The mechanism of action is that it helps to stabilise the transition state of the reaction and reduces the activation energy required.
