Potassium peroxymonosulfate: A Versatile Oxidizing Agent in Modernmistry

Potassium peroxymonosulfate is widely used as an oxidizing agent, for example, in pools and spas. It is the potassium salt of peroxymonosulfuric acid.

Properties

Potassium peroxymonosulfate is a white crystalline powder with no odour; very soluble in water. Potassium peroxymonosulfate is unstable or explosive and is capable of initiation by heat, friction or impact, and all are powerful oxidants.

Uses

Potassium peroxymonosulfate is used widely for cleaning. It whitens dentures,oxidizes organic contaminants in swimming pools, and cleans chips for the manufacture of microelectronics.

Organic chemistry

Potassium peroxymonosulfate is a versatile oxidant in organic synthesis. It oxidizes aldehydes to carboxylic acids; in the presence of alcoholic solvents, the esters may be obtained. Internal alkenes may be cleaved to two carboxylic acids, while terminal alkenes may be epoxidized.

Production

Potassium peroxymonosulfate is produced from peroxysulfuric acid, which is generated in situ by combining oleum and hydrogen peroxide. Careful neutralization of this solution with potassium hydroxide allows the crystallization of the triple salt.

Chronic health effects

Repeated or prolonged exposure to acids may result in the erosion of teeth, swelling and or ulceration of mouth lining. Irritation of airways to lung, with cough, and inflammation of lung tissue often occurs.

Long-term exposure to respiratory irritants may result in disease of the airways involving difficult breathing and related systemic problems.

Limited evidence suggests that repeated or long-term occupational exposure may produce cumulative health effects involving organs or biochemical systems.

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