Potassium persulfate is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula K₂S₂O₈, also known as potassium persulfate, potassium perdisulfate, even potassium disulfate, potassium dithiooctachloroxide, etc. It is a white crystalline powder that is insoluble in ethanol but soluble in water. Potassium persulfate has strong oxidizing properties and is often used as a bleaching agent, an oxidizing agent, and an initiator of polymerization reactions. This compound has almost no moisture absorption, good stability at room temperature, easy storage, convenience and safety.

The physical properties of potassium persulfate include a melting point of 1067 °C, a boiling point of 1689 °C, and a density of 2.47 g/cm³. It is a colorless or white crystal, odorless, and the aqueous solution is acidic. Potassium persulfate gradually decomposes in the air to release free oxygen, which decomposes faster at high temperatures, and decomposes all at 100 °C. There is a risk of combustion explosion when in contact with or mixed with organic matter, reducing agents, and flammable materials. Explosions can occur when heated sharply.

Potassium persulfate is a versatile chemical, mainly due to its strong oxidizing properties and its ability to act as an initiator in polymerization reactions. Here are some of the main uses of potassium persulfate:

1. Disinfectants and fabric bleach: Potassium persulfate is used as an oxidizing agent in the disinfection and bleaching process to help remove pigments and contaminants from fabrics, paper, and other materials.

2. Initiator of polymerization reaction: In the chemical industry, potassium persulfate is used as an initiator for the polymerization of a variety of monomer emulsions, such as vinyl acetate, acrylates, acrylonitrile, styrene, vinyl chloride, etc.

3. Intermediates of hydrogen peroxide by electrolysis: In the production process of hydrogen peroxide, potassium persulfate participates in the electrolysis process as an intermediate.

4. Metal treatment: Potassium persulfate is used in the oxidation solution of steel and alloys, as well as the etching and roughening treatment of copper to help improve the treatment effect of metal surface.

5. Chemical analysis: In chemical analysis, potassium persulfate is used as an analytical reagent for the determination of manganese content.

6. Synthetic rubber and resins: In the synthetic rubber industry, potassium persulfate is used as an initiator for elastomers; In the production of synthetic resins, it is used as a polymerization accelerator for polyvinyl chloride emulsions.

7. Other applications: In addition to the above uses, potassium persulfate may also be used in other industrial processes, such as special treatments in plastics, rubber, cosmetics and other industries.