Potassium methoxide

Potassium methoxide (CAS 865-33-8), also sold as potassium methylate or potassium methanolate, is a strong alkoxide base used primarily as a catalyst and reagent in industrial chemical synthesis. Its high reactivity in non-aqueous systems makes it a preferred choice over milder bases in processes requiring fast, selective reactions. In pharmaceutical manufacturing, it drives condensation and cyclization.

These reactions are used to produce active pharmaceutical ingredients and intermediates. Biodiesel producers rely on it as a transesterification catalyst, converting triglycerides into fatty acid methyl esters. In agrochemical synthesis, it supports the production of herbicides and pesticides where controlled base-catalyzed reactions are required. Polymer chemists use it to initiate anionic polymerization.

It also catalyzes the production of specialty polyesters and polyethers. Potassium methoxide is supplied as a solution in methanol, with concentrations typically ranging from 25% to 32%. It is also available as a dry powder or free-flowing solid for applications where solvent-free handling is required. Standard technical and industrial grades are available for various uses.

Pharmaceutical-grade material is supplied to meet GMP requirements. Packaging options range from drums to IBC totes, reflecting demand from both batch processors and continuous production facilities.