Potassium permanganate is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula KMnO4 and composed of potassium ion (K +) and manganate ion (MnO-4). It is a purplish-black crystalline solid, which dissolves in water to give intensely pink or purplish solutions.
Permanganate is widely used in the chemical industry and in laboratories as a strong oxidizing agent, and also as a drug for dermatitis, wound cleaning, and general disinfection. It was first used as a disinfectant in 1857. Since then, it has been widely used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including fungal infections.
In water treatment, the use of KMnO4 oxidizes the dissolved iron, manganese, and hydrogen sulfide in solid particles. It can also be used to control the growth of iron bacteria in wells. The particles are then filtered, with a filter that can be either a manganese-coated aluminum silicate or a layer of anthracite.
Potassium permanganate is an oxidizing agent used in oxidation-reduction titrations, reacting in an acid environment, for redox titrations (permaganometry), and in the synthesis and of various organic compounds.
KMnO4 is also used in the surface treatment of steels.
Before proceeding to the acid pickling phase, it is necessary to perform a thorough cleaning, using special baths, in particular for ferritic and martensitic steels in the annealed state.
For fast pickling, or for materials where cleaning is difficult, it is possible through a bath with a temperature close to boiling:
- Soda 20% by weight
- Potassium permanganate 5% by weight
- Water 75% by weight
Potassium permanganate as a precursor for narcotic substances according to the DFI Ordinance on drug lists (OEStup-DFI) is subject to control by SwissMedic.
Every company that markets or uses potassium permanganate requires an operating authorization for the use of controlled substances issued by the DFI (Federal Department of the Interior).
Questions? Our experts will help you.