Potassium carbonate is a water-soluble salt, usually appearing as a crystalline white powder. We use this ingredient in some of our laundry products as a detergent builder, to improve overall cleaning performance. Builders reduce water hardness; and help bind and capture removed soil to prevent it from redepositing during the wash.

Potassium carbonate is a mineral-derived ingredient, produced commercially by reacting potassium hydroxide (caustic potash) with carbon dioxide. Potassium carbonate is a strong base (high pH) and can be used to make high-alkaline solutions. Historically, before the invention of baking powder, it was used as a leavening agent in baking. It's still found today in some cuisines, and is also used in the production of soap, glass and pottery.

Potassium carbonate is listed by the European Chemical Agency (ECHA) as readily soluble and non-bioaccumulative in the environment.

Other names: K₂CO₃; Potash; Carbonic Acid, Dipotassium Salt; Dipotassium Carbonate

Chemical class: Inorganic Salts

REFERENCES

European Chemicals Agency (2022). Potassium Carbonate. EC number: 209-529-3 | CAS number: 584-08-7. https://echa.europa.eu/registration-dossier/-/registered-dossier/15221/6/1

National Center for Biotechnology Information (2022). PubChem Compound Summary for CID 11430, Potassium carbonate. https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/Potassium-carbonate.

TGSC Information System (2022). Potassium carbonate. http://www.thegoodscentscompany.com/data/rw1099541.html