Potassium Nitrate

· Saltpeter, also known as potassium nitrate , is typically a colorless crystal or white powder. It is odorless but has a cooling sensation. It is a nitrogen- and potassium-containing compound fertilizer and a strong oxidizing agent used in the manufacture of gunpowder, fireworks, and glass, as well as as a food preservative and toothpaste desensitizer. It is readily soluble in water but must be stored away from flammable materials and reducing agents. It is flammable and poses a risk of combustion and explosion upon contact with organic matter.

It is a multifunctional potassium-containing compound used in fertilizers (containing nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium to promote crop growth), fireworks and gunpowder (oxidizing agents for manufacturing fireworks and explosives), pharmaceuticals (sensitive toothpaste, kidney stone treatment, and drug production), the food industry (color protectants and preservatives), glass and ceramics (clarifying agents and glazes), and other applications (chemical reagents, catalysts, tobacco, batteries, etc.).