Potassium sulfate (K2SO4) is a chemical compound composed of potassium, sulfur, and oxygen. It is a colorless crystalline solid, typically exhibiting no odor or having a slight sulfuric acid-like characteristic. It is a water-soluble salt that provides essential nutrients for plant growth, particularly potassium and sulfur.
Here are some key aspects of Potassium Sulfate:
Chemical Properties:
Formula: K2SO4
Molecular Weight: 174.26 g/mol
Solubility: soluble in water, forming a solution that is acidic
Stability: stable at room temperature and is not easily oxidized or reduced
CAS Number: 7778-80-5
Agriculture Applications:
1. Fertilizer: (Crop Nutrition)
Source of Potassium: Potassium sulfate is widely used as a fertilizer in agriculture to provide a source of potassium, an essential nutrient for plant growth. Potassium is a crucial nutrient for various physiological processes, including photosynthesis, enzyme activation, and osmoregulation.
Source of Sulfur: In addition to potassium, potassium sulfate provides sulfur, another essential nutrient for plant growth. Sulfur is a component of amino acids, proteins, and vitamins, contributing to overall plant development.
2. Soil Amendment:
It is used to amend alkaline soils, helping to lower soil pH and improve the availability of other nutrients. It can also contribute to improving soil structure and quality.
3. Drip Irrigation:
Compatibility: Due to its high solubility, potassium sulfate is suitable for use in drip irrigation systems, ensuring efficient nutrient delivery to plants.
4. Crop-Specific Applications:
Broad Crop Range: Potassium sulfate is used as a fertilizer for a wide range of crops, including fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes.
High-Value Crops: Potassium sulfate is often preferred for high-value crops where the absence of chloride is critical, such as fruits, vegetables, and certain cash crops.
It is suitable for crops that are sensitive to chloride, as potassium sulfate is chloride-free.
5. Compatibility with Other Fertilizers:
Mixing with Other Fertilizers: Potassium sulfate is compatible with various fertilizers, allowing for customized nutrient formulations tailored to specific crop and soil conditions.
6. Fertilizers Production:
Potassium sulfate is widely used as one of the primary raw materials for producing high-quality nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK) ternary compound fertilizers. Its application extends beyond serving as an independent fertilizer, playing a crucial role in the manufacturing of compound fertilizers. This ensures that plants receive a comprehensive and balanced nutritional supply, contributing to increased crop yield and quality.
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