Formula KHSO3 Appearance White crystalline powder | Molar mass 120.1561 g/mol | |
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Potassium hydrogen sulfite or potassium bisulfite is a chemical compound with the chemical formula KHSO3. It is used during the production of alcoholic beverages as a sterilising agent. This additive is classified as E number E228 under the current EU approved food additive.
Synthesis
It is made by the reaction of sulfur dioxide and potassium carbonate. The sulfur dioxide is passed through a solution of the potassium carbonate until no more carbon dioxide is given off. The solution is concentrated and then allowed to crystallize.
References
Potassium bisulfite Wikipedia(Text) CC BY-SA