Potassium Hexacyanoferrate (III) ( Potassium ferricyanide ) - 100g

Potassium Hexacyanoferrate (III)
Other Names: Potassium ferricyanide

Chemical Formula: K₃[Fe(CN)₆]
Molar Mass: 329.25 g/mol
CAS Number: 13746-66-2
EC Number (WE): 237-323-3
Appearance: Bright red crystalline solid

Potassium hexacyanoferrate(III) is a coordination compound consisting of three potassium cations and one ferricyanide anion. It is widely used as a mild oxidizing agent and in the formation of Prussian blue complexes. Although it contains cyanide groups, it is considered relatively non-toxic under normal conditions due to the strong stability of the complex ion.

Chemical and Physical Properties

• Density: 1.85 g/cm³

• Melting Point: Decomposes before melting

• Solubility in Water: Highly soluble, forms a reddish solution

• Solubility in Other Solvents: Insoluble in most organic solvents

• Odor: Odorless

• Stability: Stable at room temperature; decomposes at high temperatures with release of toxic gases (including hydrogen cyanide)

Applications

Analytical Chemistry:

• Used as a mild oxidizer in redox titrations

• Reacts with ferrous ions (Fe²⁺) to form deep blue Prussian blue, useful in qualitative analysis

Photography:

• Historically applied as a silver halide bleaching agent

Electroplating:

• Employed in metal deposition baths to enhance surface coating processes

Pigment and Dye Production:

• Involved in the synthesis of Prussian blue, used in printing inks and paints

Laboratory Reagent:

• Commonly used to demonstrate redox chemistry and coordination complex behavior

Safety

Signal Word: Warning

Hazard Statements:

• H319: Causes serious eye irritation

• H411: Toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects

Precautionary Statements:

• P264: Wash skin thoroughly after handling

• P273: Avoid release to the environment

• P280: Wear eye protection and face protection

• P305+P351+P338: IF IN EYES: Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do. Continue rinsing

• P337+P313: If eye irritation persists: Get medical advice/attention

• P391: Collect spillage

Supplemental Hazard Statement (EU):

• EUH032: Contact with acids liberates very toxic gas (hydrogen cyanide)

First Aid Measures

Eye Contact: Rinse immediately with water for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do. Seek medical attention.
Skin Contact: Wash with soap and water. Remove contaminated clothing.
Inhalation: Move to fresh air. Seek medical help if symptoms occur.
Ingestion: Rinse mouth. Do not induce vomiting. Seek immediate medical attention.

Handling and Storage

Storage Conditions: Store in a tightly closed container in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated area. Keep away from acids, heat, and incompatible materials.
Handling Precautions: Avoid dust formation. Handle with care using appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE).

Environmental Considerations

Potassium hexacyanoferrate(III) may pose a risk to aquatic organisms if released in large quantities. Avoid discharge into drains and the environment. Dispose of according to local environmental regulations.