1. Product Introduction & Main Application
Arnico’s Potassium Methoxide is a very strong alkaline catalyst, supplied as a clear solution with a concentration of 32% in methanol. This powerful base is the primary nucleophile in transesterification reactions for producing high-quality biodiesel from vegetable oils and animal fats, playing a central role in the clean fuels industry.
2. Technical Specifications
| Technical Parameter | Standard Biodiesel Grade (K-3232) | Pharma/Special Synthesis Grade (K-3299) | Unit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Clear, colorless to pale yellow liquid | Clear, colorless liquid | – |
| Concentration (Potassium Methoxide) | 32.0 ± 0.5 | 32.0 ± 0.3 | % |
| Water Content | ≤ 0.3 | ≤ 0.1 | % |
| Free Potassium Hydroxide | ≤ 0.5 | ≤ 0.2 | % |
| Density (20°C) | 0.94 – 0.96 | 0.94 – 0.95 | g/cm³ |
| Carbonate Content (as K₂CO₃) | ≤ 0.3 | ≤ 0.15 | % |
3. Features & Benefits
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Exceptional Catalytic Activity: Provides a significantly faster reaction rate compared to sodium methoxide, reducing biodiesel reactor cycle time.
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Superior Glycerin Quality: Produces by-product glycerin with higher purity and better color, commanding greater commercial value without complex purification.
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Complete & Instantaneous Solubility: Does not form abrasive suspensions, preventing equipment wear often seen with solid catalysts.
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Stable Formulation: Minimal water and free hydroxide content prevents the unwanted saponification side reaction, maximizing conversion efficiency.
4. Industrial Applications
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Biodiesel Production: The primary homogeneous catalyst for converting waste cooking oils, soybean oil, palm oil, and algae oil into fuel.
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Pharmaceutical Synthesis: A strong base in the manufacture of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) and water-sensitive intermediates.
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Agrochemicals: A catalyst in the production of specific herbicides and fungicides.
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Specialty Polymers: An initiator for anionic polymerization reactions.
5. Safety & Handling
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MSDS (Material Safety Data Sheet): Extremely corrosive and flammable. Reacts violently with water and atmospheric carbon dioxide, leading to decomposition. Obtaining and thoroughly studying the Arnico MSDS is a legal requirement.
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Storage Conditions: Store exclusively in stainless steel (304 or 316) or heavy-duty polyethylene containers under an inert gas (dry nitrogen) blanket, at a temperature between +10°C and +30°C, and strictly away from any moisture, water, and acids. Tanks must be equipped with a drying breather valve.
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Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): When connecting and decanting, the use of full acid- and solvent-resistant clothing, Viton gloves, chemical goggles, and a face shield is strictly essential.
6. Quality Assurance & COA
Arnico provides Potassium Methoxide with a COA where the exact percentages of KOMe, water, and free hydroxide are measured by titration and Karl Fischer methods. This analytical precision guarantees that your biodiesel production process runs with maximum yield and minimal saponification.
