Characteristic

Potassium persulfate is the inorganic compound with the formula K₂S₂O₈. Also known as potassium peroxydisulfate or KPS, it is a white solid that is sparingly soluble in cold water, but dissolves better in warm water.

Chemical formula:K₂S₂O₈

Molar mass:270.322 g/mol

Appearance:white powder

Odor:odorless

Density:2.477 g/cm³

Melting point:< 100 °C (212 °F; 373 K) (decomposes)

Solubility in water:1.75 g/100 mL (0 °C);4.49 g/100 ml (20 °C)

Solubility:insoluble in alcohol

Refractive index (nD):1.467

Crystal structure:triclinic

Application

A polymerization accelerant for PAGE gels. Potassium peroxydisulfate is used as an oxidizing agent in organic synthesis. It is involved in Elbs persulfate oxidation of phenols and the Boyland-Sims oxidation of anilines. Upon solution, it gives radicals and is used to initiate polymerization reactions to prepare styrene-butadiene rubber and polytetrafluoroethylene. It is used as bleaching agent in various hair bleaches, ion exchange agents, plating agents and surface treating agents.