What are the Common Uses for Potassium Nitrate?

Potassium nitrate, also known as saltpeter or niter, has been produced for a variety of uses since at least the1st century. Historically, it was common to use urine and/or manure in the production of potassium nitrate. As one of the main ingredients in gunpowder, it has had quite an effect on world history.

Explosives

Potassium nitrate is commonly used in black powder gunpowder and as a propellant for amateur rockets and fireworks.

Fertilizer

Potassium nitrate is an excellent additive for fertilizers, as it contains two important nutrients needed by plants.

Food Preservative

Potassium nitrate has been used for preserving food since the Middle Ages, especially for meats. Recently, it has been replaced by more effective compounds, such as sodium nitrate, though it is still used to cure meats such as corned beef and salami.

Tobacco

Potassium nitrate is used in the production of cigarettes, as it causes the tobacco to burn more evenly.

Crafts

Potassium nitrate was used in metalworking as a flux; in tanning to help preserve the hides; and in the production of glass.

References

• Potassium Nitrate
• Mineral - Niter or potassium nitrate
• History of gunpowder