Potassium thiocyanate
Description
Potassium thiocyanate (CAS 333-20-0), also sold under the trade name Rhocya and known in some markets as potassium rhodanide or potassium sulfocyanate, is an inorganic salt used across industrial and laboratory processes.
It serves as a reagent, catalyst precursor, and biocidal agent. Its high solubility and thiocyanate ion activity make it a functional input across water treatment, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and life sciences workflows.
In water treatment, KSCN is applied as a biocide and corrosion inhibitor, controlling microbial growth in industrial cooling and process water systems. Pharmaceutical manufacturers use it as a reagent in synthesis pathways.
It is also utilized as a reference standard in analytical testing protocols. In biotechnology and life sciences, it functions as a chaotropic agent in protein denaturation and cell lysis buffers, supporting purification.
The product also serves as a catalyst precursor in select organic synthesis applications where thiocyanate coordination chemistry drives reaction selectivity. This makes it a versatile chemical for complex manufacturing.
Potassium thiocyanate is supplied as a white crystalline powder or granule. Standard commercial grades include technical grade for industrial applications and high-purity grades meeting pharmaceutical and analytical specifications.
The material is manufactured to meet rigorous quality standards, including USP and ACS requirements where specified. Bulk quantities are available for industrial procurement, with smaller packaging for laboratory use.
Physical Properties
| Melting Point | 173 °C |
| Boiling Point | 500°C |
| Density | 1.956 g/cm³ |
| Flash Point | 500°C |
| Appearance | white crystalline powder |
| Color | colorless or white |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Form | Liquid |
| Water Solubility | 2170 g/L (20 ºC) |
| Vapor Pressure | <0.001 hPa (20 °C) |
| pH | 5.3-8.7 (25℃, 50mg/mL in H2O) |
| Log P | 0.58 |
Safety & Handling (Learn More)
Trade & Regulatory
| HS Code | 28380000 |
| Storage Class | 13 - Non Combustible Solids |
| WGK (Germany) | 1 |
Documentation
Other Names
Rhocya|potassium sulfocyanate|potassium rhodanide|potassium rhodanate|KSCN|Rodanca|Potassium thiocyanide|Arterocyn
Related Products
Need a chemical? Get a quote within 24 hours.