Potassium nitrate is a chemical compound with the formula KNO3.
It occurs as a mineral niter and is a natural solid source of nitrogen. Potassium nitrate is one of several nitrogen-containing compounds collectively referred to as salt peter.
Major uses of potassium nitrate are in fertilizers,food additive, rocket propellants and fireworks.
Other uses
- As the main solid particle component of condensed aerosol fire suppression systems. When burned with the free radicals of a fire's flame, it produces potassium carbonate.
- For the heat treatment of metals as a solvent in the post-wash. The oxidizing, water solubility and low cost make it an ideal short-term rust inhibitor.
- as a thermal storage medium. Sodium and potassium nitrate salts are stored in molten state with the solar energy collected by the heliostats at the GEMASOLAR Thermosolar Plant, with the addition of calcium nitrate or lithium nitrate, improve the heat storage capacity in the molten salts.
Pharmacology
- Used in some toothpastes for sensitive teeth.Recently, the use of potassium nitrate in toothpastes for treating sensitive teeth has increased and it may be an effective treatment.
- Used in some toothpastes to relieve asthma symptoms.
- Used historically to treat asthma as well as arthritis.
- Combats high blood pressure and was once used as a hypotensive.