Potassium Fluoride (CAS: 7789-23-3)

Potassium fluoride is the chemical compound with the formula KF. After hydrogen fluoride,

KF is the primary source of the fluoride ion for applications in manufacturing and in chemistry.

It is an alkali halide and occurs naturally as the rare mineral carobbiite. Aqueous solutions of KF

will etch glass due to the formation of soluble fluorosilicates, although HF is more effective.

Applications in organic chemistry

In organic chemistry, KF is the preferred source of fluoride for the conversion of chlorocarbons into

fluorocarbons. Such reactions usually employ polar solvents such as dimethyl formamide, ethylene

glycol, and dimethyl sulfoxide.

Safety considerations

Like other sources of the fluoride ion, F−, KF is poisonous, although lethal doses approach gram levels

for humans. It is harmful by inhalation and ingestion. It is highly corrosive, and skin contact may cause severe burns.