Also refer to 2000 Emergency Response Guidebook (ERG2000) Guide 154.

Health Hazards

Potassium fluoride is corrosive and is harmful by inhalation, ingestion and through skin contact. It is very destructive of mucous membranes. Ingestion can cause abdominal pains, diarrhea and vomiting. It is considered teratogenic because it may cause damage to the embryo or foetus.

Risk and Safety Phrases.

INDUSTRIAL/COMMERCIAL USES

The primary uses of potassium fluoride are in the metallurgical industry, including soldering fluxes and in tin plating. It is also widely used as a fluorinating agent in organic synthesis to replace other halide atoms (chlorine, bromine, iodine) with fluorine. This includes the manufacture of a number of pesticides and insecticides It is also a useful catalyst in the manufacture of polyurethanes.

COMMENTS

Potassium fluoride is used as a fluorinating agent in the manufacture of G-type nerve agents. Preparation of potassium fluoride is by the reaction of potassium hydroxide with hydrogen fluoride.