Skip to main content

Potassium cyanide

(Redirected from Cyanide)
A representation of Cyanide

Potassium cyanide (also known as cyanide) is the potassium salt of hydrogen cyanide (molecular formula KCN)

  1. Properties:
    • Potassium cyanide forms colorless crystals that have a bitter almond-like odor.
    • It has a melting point of 634 °C and dissolves well in water, but only poorly in alcohol.
    • For genetic reasons, only around 20-40% of people can perceive the smell of bitter almonds.
    • Acids (e.g. stomach acid) release hydrocyanic acid from potassium cyanide and other cyanides, which has the typical "bitter almond odor".
  2. Toxic effect:
    • In humans: A lethal dose of potassium cyanide is about 230 mg cyanide (CN-) when ingested orally. Bright red mucosal bleeding indicates cyanide.
    • In animals: Fish die at a cyanide concentration in water of 1-5 µg/l.
  3. Production and use:
    • Potassium cyanide is used in industry for various purposes, e.g. in metal processing and for the manufacture of chemicals.
    • However, it is very toxic and requires special safety precautions during handling and storage.

Please note that potassium cyanide is a strong poison and can be extremely dangerous.

 

Potassium cyanide has no relation to dogs and is highly toxic!

Learn even more about Cyanide

If you notice any signs of hypersensitivity or poisoning in your dog, you should see your vet immediately. We are not a substitute for a vet, but we try to be as accurate as possible. Every dog reacts differently and we recommend you get a second opinion or consult your vet if in doubt.

Stay healthy and take good care of your four-legged friend!😊