Products
Potassium hydrogen tartrate is available as a pure substance in pharmacies and drugstores. It is, together with calcium tartrate, the most important component of tartar. If tartar is needed, potassium hydrogen tartrate is usually used. Tartrate forms in barrels during wine fermentation and can also be deposited in wine bottles and on corks.
Structure and properties
Potassium hydrogen tartrate (C4H5KO6, Mr = 188.2 g/mol) is the monopotassium salt of tartaric acid. It exists as a white crystalline powder or as colorless crystals and is sparingly soluble in water. In hot water, the substance is more soluble. Consequently, it is also observed that tartrate tends to crystallize at cold temperatures. Potassium hydrogen tartrate is a natural substance found in grapes, wine and fruits. Unlike sodium hydrogen carbonate, no decomposition occurs when acid is added.
Areas of application
- As an acidifying agent in leavening agents.
- For the self-production of plasticine.
- Together with an acid as a cleaning paste for some metals.
- In food technology, for example, for the stabilization of whipped cream.
