Potassium antimonyl tartrate sesquihydrate
[CAS# 28300-74-5]

Identification

• Classification: Organic raw materials >> Organometallic salt
• Name: Potassium antimonyl tartrate sesquihydrate
• Synonyms: Antimony potassium tartrate trihydrate
• Molecular Formula: C₈H₄K₂O₁₂Sb₂^.3(H₂O)
• Molecular Weight: 667.86
• CAS Registry Number: 28300-74-5
• EC Number: 608-190-2
• SMILES: [C@@H]([C@H](C(=O)[O-])[O-])(C(=O)[O-])[O-].[C@@H]([C@H](C(=O)[O-])[O-])(C(=O)[O-])[O-].O.O.O.[K+].[K+].[Sb+3].[Sb+3]

Properties

• Melting point: 332-335 ºC
• Water solubility: 8.3 g/100 mL

Safety Data

• Hazard Symbols: Xn;N
• Risk Codes: R20/22;R51/53
• Safety Description: S61

Hazard Classification

Hazard	Class	Category Code	Hazard Statement
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H332
Chronic hazardous to the aquatic environment	Aquatic Chronic	2	H411
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	3	H301
Acute toxicity	Acute Tox.	4	H302
Skin irritation	Skin Irrit.	2	H315
Eye irritation	Eye Irrit.	2	H319
Skin sensitization	Skin Sens.	1	H317

• Transport Information: UN 1551

Discovory and Applicatios

Potassium antimonyl tartrate sesquihydrate, commonly known as tartar emetic, is a coordination complex with notable historical and modern uses. This compound, consisting of potassium, antimony, and tartaric acid, has been employed for its medicinal, industrial, and analytical properties.Potassium antimonyl tartrate, with the formula K2?[Sb2?(C4?H2?O6?)2?]�3H2?O, was discovered in the 17th century. Its synthesis emerged from alchemical practices, initially being used as an emetic and purgative. Over time, its applications diversified, and its structure was fully characterized by modern chemistry. The compound forms transparent crystals that are soluble in water, with antimony in its trivalent state chelated by tartaric acid. Potassium antimonyl tartrate sesquihydrate appears as colorless crystals or a crystalline powder. The sesquihydrate form refers to the compound containing 1.5 molecules of water for each formula unit. It is soluble in water, slightly soluble in alcohol, and decomposes upon heating. Its structure involves antimony coordinated with tartaric acid, forming a stable complex that imparts its distinctive properties.

Historically, tartar emetic was used as an antiparasitic and an emetic to induce vomiting, particularly in treating schistosomiasis and leishmaniasis. Its efficacy in disrupting the metabolism of parasites made it a valuable therapeutic agent. However, due to toxicity concerns and the availability of safer alternatives, its use in medicine has significantly declined.

In industry, potassium antimonyl tartrate is used in textile printing and dyeing. It acts as a mordant, helping dyes bond to fabrics and improving color fastness. Additionally, it is used in the manufacturing of glass and ceramics, where it contributes to color and opacity control.

The compound plays a role in analytical chemistry, particularly in qualitative and quantitative analysis. It is used as a reagent for detecting certain metal ions and for the standardization of various analytical procedures. Its ability to form complexes with metals allows it to serve as a reliable agent in chemical analysis.

In metal finishing, potassium antimonyl tartrate is used in electroplating processes, particularly for antimony and tin coatings. Its role in creating uniform and adherent metal layers makes it valuable in producing high-quality plated surfaces.

Although less common today, tartar emetic has been used as a pesticide and fungicide. Its application in agriculture was primarily for controlling insect pests and fungi in crops, though its use has diminished due to toxicity and environmental concerns.

The use of potassium antimonyl tartrate requires careful handling due to its toxicity. Exposure can lead to antimony poisoning, which affects the gastrointestinal and respiratory systems. Modern regulations restrict its use in many applications, favoring alternatives with lower toxicity profiles. Proper disposal and environmental management are essential to minimize its impact on health and ecosystems.