Potassium antimony tartrate, also recognized as potassium antimonyl tartrate or tartar emetic, holds a longstanding presence in chemical laboratories and industrial processes. Its roots trace back to 17th-century Europe, where it found early use in medicine and analysis. Today, this compound serves as an essential analytical reagent and complexing agent, particularly prized for its stability and dependable reaction profile in both organic and inorganic chemistry. The crystalline composition of potassium antimony tartrate defines not only its structure but also governs reactivity and handling requirements. As a reagent, it bridges historical application and modern need, proving important for specialized scientific and industrial methods.
Potassium antimony tartrate can appear as a crystalline solid, with some batches taking shape as flakes or fine powder. A few high-purity suppliers offer it as crystalline pearls or in a granular form, depending on process demands. These physical forms influence solubility rates and dosing precision. Most suppliers emphasize reagent-grade purity, ensuring consistent chemical behavior during titrations, metal-content analyses, and catalytic reactions in research settings. The compound is typically shipped in moisture-resistant packaging to guard against caking, and for laboratory work, accuracy in weighing is vital due to its potency and potential hazards.
The molecular structure consists of potassium (K), antimony (Sb), tartaric acid derivatives, and oxygen atoms, usually represented by the formula K2Sb2(C4H2O6)2•3H2O. Its molecular weight usually falls near 667.87 g/mol. The complex contains antimony in the +3 oxidation state, tightly chelated by the tartrate ligand framework, allowing for unique coordination properties in aqueous solutions. Structural integrity is characterized by hydrated crystalline lattices, and laboratory-grade product analysis routinely confirms water of crystallization through thermogravimetric measurements. The density hovers around 2.6 g/cm³. Potassium antimony tartrate dissolves readily in water, producing a clear colorless to pale solution, favored for volumetric and qualitative analysis. The chemical’s purity is best evaluated using ICP-OES or atomic absorption techniques to identify common trace contaminants.
Under the harmonized system for customs and trade, potassium antimony tartrate carries the HS Code 2842.90, following international protocols for inorganic salts and antimony compounds. For regulatory compliance, accurate material declaration on shipping documentation remains crucial; this ensures safe handling during transit and rapid identification during import/export checks. This code placement informs customs of the compound's dual industrial and research applications and flags it for special transport and storage regulations, given its hazardous classification. For any laboratory or industrial purchase order, referencing this code helps prevent clearance delays or fines tied to regulatory misclassification.
This compound’s behavior depends closely on its solid-state features. Colorless to slightly white crystals signal purity, while any grayish or brown tones may suggest byproducts from improper synthesis or decomposition. Antimony content usually stands at 25–30%, while loss on drying at 105°C seldom exceeds minimal percentages, reflecting the crystalline stability and low moisture absorption under controlled conditions. Its solubility in water is substantial – more than 100 grams per liter at room temperature. Dissolution dynamics differ in alcohol or other organic solvents, where poor solubility enhances selectivity in synthetic processes. For titration purposes, concentration accuracy in solution form is integral, especially during heavy-metal quantification or coordination-based assays.
Potassium antimony tartrate often reaches labs in flake or powder form, with some sources offering crystalline pearls for reduced dust generation during transfer. Flake variants allow easy dispersion in solution due to larger surface area compared to irregular powders, though powder forms break down faster in water, creating rapid dissolution. Genuine crystals yield better material handling, minimizing accidental airborne spread and aiding in double-checking sample identity by morphology. Though rarely supplied as a pre-made aqueous solution, highly controlled environments may prepare fresh solutions—one liter at a time—in closed systems to limit exposure. Solid and crystalline batches demand dry storage, secure containers, and careful weighing, given both potency and toxicity risks associated with antimony compounds.
Production of potassium antimony tartrate begins with purified antimony oxide, fine potassium carbonate or potassium hydroxide, and food-grade tartaric acid. Water used in crystallization must meet high-purity standards to prevent contamination. Sourcing these feedstocks raises sustainability questions, as antimony mining impacts the environment, and current global reserves see variable availability. Renewable alternatives for potassium or advancements in synthetic recirculation might reduce overall environmental footprints. Some regions impose tighter scrutiny on antimony sourcing, both for raw antimony and finished chemical purity, reflecting a move toward responsible stewardship of natural resources. Research in bio-based alternatives continues, though for now, production still depends on careful mineral processing and chemical transformation.
Despite its broad laboratory and industrial use, potassium antimony tartrate is hazardous. Inhalation or ingestion presents acute toxicity, with potential for severe gastrointestinal, hepatic, and cardiac effects at low doses. Dermal exposure poses a risk, as antimony compounds cross biological barriers easily. Consistent with major regulatory bodies (OSHA, ECHA, GHS), all handling calls for personal protective equipment: gloves, goggles, lab coats, and use of fume hoods or local exhaust for sprays or open powder transfer. Spill management plans call for containment and removal by trained staff, using compatible neutralizing materials. All storage should prioritize dry, well-ventilated conditions with clear hazard signage. Disposal aligns with hazardous materials guidelines, prohibiting sewer or general waste routes. Emergency response includes immediate decontamination and intensive care for acute poisonings, with all staff receiving training on recognition of antimony toxicity symptoms.
Potassium antimony tartrate commands attention due not only to its unique chemistry but also to the responsibility it demands from users. The need for accuracy, safety, and ethics in handling a compound with historic and present-day impact puts pressure on suppliers, labs, and regulators to enforce clear standards. Researchers, educators, and technical workers—regardless of their location—rely on clear product details and hazard communication for safe, effective use. Ensuring upstream traceability, downstream safety, and transparent descriptions empowers everyone involved to make informed choices, reduce risk, and contribute to responsible chemical stewardship both inside and outside the laboratory.
Providing high-quality chemical products and logistics solutions for global trade partners.
