Potassium ethyl xanthogenate
Potassium ethyl xanthogenate (CAS: 140-89-6), with the linear formula C2H5OCSSK and a molecular weight of 160.30 g/mol, is a sulfur-containing organic compound. This chemical finds utility in various synthetic procedures, including the preparation of unsymmetrical sulfides via cross-coupling reactions. It also functions as a surfactant and has been employed in the determination of trace cadmium levels in water samples.
- IUPAC
- O-Ethylxanthic acid potassium salt,KEX,Potassium O-ethyl dithiocarbonate,Potassium xanthogenate
- Synonyms
- O-Ethylxanthic acid potassium saltKEXPotassium O-ethyl dithiocarbonatePotassium xanthogenate

Synthesis of Unsymmetrical Sulfides
Potassium ethyl xanthogenate is utilised in the synthesis of unsymmetrical sulfides. This process is facilitated by cross-coupling reactions employing recyclable CuO nanoparticles under ligand-free conditions.
Surfactant Properties
The compound acts as a surfactant. It has been investigated for its role in the adsorption of colloidal dye Disperse Blue 3 onto pretreated polyester fabric.
Analytical Chemistry
Potassium ethyl xanthogenate has been applied in analytical methods for the determination of microgram quantities of cadmium present in water samples, utilising a substoichiometric radiochemical technique.
| Molecular weight | 160.30 |
|---|---|
| Linear formula | C2H5OCSSK |
| Assay | 96% |
| Solubility | alcohol: soluble(lit.)water: very soluble(lit.) |
| Application | Potassium ethyl xanthogenate (ethyl potassium xanthogenate) has been used:• in synthesis of unsymmetrical sulfides via cross-coupling reaction, using recyclable CuO nanoparticles under ligand-free conditions1• as surfactant to investigate the adsorption of colloidal dye Disperse Blue 3 onto pretreated polyester fabric2• in determination of microgram amounts of cadmium in water samples by substoichiometric radiochemical method3 |
| Melting point | 210 °C (dec.)(lit.) |



Hazard statements
- H251Self-heating; may catch fire
- H302Harmful if swallowed
- H315Causes skin irritation
- H319Causes serious eye irritation
- H335May cause respiratory irritation
- H411Toxic to aquatic life with long-lasting effects
Precautionary statements
- P235Keep cool
- P261Avoid breathing dust, fume, gas or vapours
- P273Avoid release to the environment
- P305IF IN EYES
| Protective equipment | dust mask type N95 (US), Eyeshields, Gloves |
|---|---|
| Flash point | 96 °C / 204.8 °F |
| Transport (UN / ADR) | UN 3342 4.2 / PGII |
| Water hazard class (WGK, DE) | 3 |
| Hazard codes (EU) | F,Xn |
| Risk statements (R) | 15/29-22-36/37/38 |
| Safety statements (S) | 26-37-43 |
| Supplemental hazards | Contact with water liberates toxic gas. |
Hazard information is provided for guidance. Always consult the product Safety Data Sheet (SDS), available on request, before handling.
Documentation
Every batch ships with a Certificate of Analysis covering assay, identity and purity; the grade is confirmed against your enquiry. Safety Data Sheets and technical data sheets are available on request.
Supply & logistics
Samples for technical evaluation; bulk MOQ by grade and packaging. In-stock material ships in 7–10 working days, worldwide, with full export documentation.
What is Potassium ethyl xanthogenate used for?
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Potassium ethyl xanthogenate is used in chemical synthesis, particularly for preparing unsymmetrical sulfides, and as a surfactant. It has also been employed in analytical chemistry for determining cadmium levels in water.
What is the CAS number and chemical formula for Potassium ethyl xanthogenate?
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The CAS number is 140-89-6 and the linear formula is C2H5OCSSK.
What grade and purity does Tech Serve Solutions supply?
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Tech Serve Solutions supplies Potassium ethyl xanthogenate with a minimum assay of 96%. We do not represent this product as USP, BP, or EP grade.
How should Potassium ethyl xanthogenate be handled safely?
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Potassium ethyl xanthogenate is flammable and reacts with water to liberate toxic gas. Handle with appropriate personal protective equipment, including a dust mask (type N95), eyeshields, and gloves, in a well-ventilated area. Store away from water and heat sources.
How is Potassium ethyl xanthogenate packed and shipped?
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Potassium ethyl xanthogenate is packed according to UN 3342 regulations for transportation of hazardous materials, specifically Class 4.2, Packing Group II. TSS exports globally.
How can I request a quote or sample?
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To request a quote or a sample, please contact our sales team through the website or by phone, specifying the product name and CAS number.
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