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Potassium Oleate

Updated: 2026-08-06

Overview

Potassium oleate is a potassium salt derived from oleic acid, a common unsaturated fatty acid. It is widely used in industries requiring surfactants, such as personal care, cleaning products, and industrial applications. As a soap base, it exhibits excellent emulsifying and foaming properties, making it a preferred ingredient in liquid soaps and detergents. Its chemical structure includes a long hydrocarbon chain with a potassium carboxylate group, which enhances its solubility in water. This compound is biodegradable and considered environmentally friendly, aligning with modern regulatory standards for surfactants.

Physical and Chemical Properties

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Potassium oleate appears as a pale yellow to brown viscous liquid or paste, depending on concentration and formulation. It is soluble in water and ethanol, forming stable solutions that exhibit surfactant behavior. The compound has a density of approximately 0.9 g/cm³ and is stable under normal storage conditions. Its key chemical property is its ability to reduce surface tension, enabling it to act as an effective emulsifier and detergent. The presence of the potassium ion enhances its solubility compared to other metal soaps, making it suitable for liquid formulations. However, it may decompose under strong acidic conditions, releasing oleic acid.

Main Applications

Potassium oleate is primarily used in the production of liquid soaps and shampoos due to its mildness and foaming properties. It is also a common ingredient in industrial and household cleaners, where its emulsifying ability helps remove oils and greases. In addition to cleaning products, it serves as an emulsifier in agricultural sprays and textile processing. Its biodegradability makes it a preferred choice in eco-friendly formulations. Some niche applications include its use in rubber manufacturing and as a dispersing agent in paints and coatings.

Safety and Storage

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While potassium oleate is generally considered safe, it can cause skin and eye irritation upon direct contact. Proper personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and goggles, should be used when handling concentrated forms. Ingestion or inhalation should be avoided. Storage recommendations include keeping the compound in a cool, dry place away from oxidizing agents. Containers should be tightly sealed to prevent moisture absorption. In case of spills, neutralize with a mild acid and clean with water. Disposal should comply with local environmental regulations.

B2B Procurement Guide

When procuring potassium oleate, buyers should prioritize suppliers with certifications such as ISO or GMP to ensure quality. Key specifications to verify include purity (typically 90-95%), viscosity, and absence of heavy metals. Packaging options range from small drums to bulk containers, depending on volume needs. Price fluctuations may occur due to raw material (oleic acid) costs. For large-scale purchases, negotiate long-term contracts to secure stable pricing. Request samples for quality testing before finalizing orders, and confirm logistical details such as lead times and storage requirements.

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