Kchloride PDF

OECD SIDS POTASSIUM CHLORIDE
FOREWORD INTRODUCTION
POTASSIUM CHLORIDE
CAS N°: 7447-40-7
UNEP PUBLICATIONS 1
SIDS Initial Assessment Report

for
13th SIAM
(Bern, 6-9 November 2001)
Chemical Name: Potassium chloride
CAS No: 7447-40-7
Sponsor Country: Norway
National SIDS Contact Point in Sponsor Country: Marit Kopangen
HISTORY: SIDS Dossier, SIAR and SIAP are reviewed by the National Institute of Public
Health (Norway) and the Norwegian Institute for Water Research (Norway)
(August 2001). All original studies reported in the SIDS dossier were submitted
for peer review.
TESTING: no testing (X)

testing ( )
COMMENTS:
Deadline for circulation: 14 September 2001
Date of Circulation: 14 September 2001
2 UNEP PUBLICATIONS
SIDS INITIAL ASSESSMENT PROFILE
CAS No. 7447-40-7
Chemical Name Potassium chloride
Structural Formula K-Cl
RECOMMENDATIONS
The chemical is currently of low priority for further work.
SUMMARY CONCLUSIONS OF THE SIAR
Human Health
Potassium chloride is an essential constituent of the body for intracellular osmotic pressure and buffering, cell
permeability, acid-base balance, muscle contraction and nerve function.
Acute oral toxicity of KCl in mammals is low (LD50 = 3020 mg/kg bw). In humans, acute oral toxicity is rare
because large single doses induce nausea and vomiting, and because KCl is rapidly excreted in the absence of any
pre-existing kidney damage. Usual therapeutic doses of potassium for oral solution-adults are 1.5-3 g/day to
prevent depletion, and 3-7.5 g/day for replacement. For repeated dose toxicity, a NOAEL at 1820 mg/kg bw/day in
rats, and a NOAEL > 80 mmol KCl/day (approx. 85 mg/kg bw/day) in humans can be retained. A threshold
concentration for skin irritancy of 60 % was seen when KCl in aqueous solution was in contact with skin of human
volunteers. The threshold concentration when applied to broken skin was 5 %.
No gene mutations were reported in bacterial tests, with and without metabolic activation. However, high
concentrations of KCl showed positive results in a range of genotoxic screening assays using mammalian cells in
culture. The action of KCl in culture seems to be an indirect effect associated with an increased osmotic pressure
and concentration. Therefore KCl, do not have any direct relevance in the intact body were such concentrations can
not occur. Further studies using in vivo systems are not considered necessary under SIDS.
No evidence of treatment -related carcinogenicity was observed in rats administered up to 1820 mg KCl/kg body
weight/day through the food in a 2 year study.
A developmental study revealed no foetotoxic or teratogenic effects of KCl in doses up to 235 mg/kg/day (mice)
and 310 mg/kg/day (rats). No fertility study has been located. Based on the extensive amount of knowledge on
KCl intake, regulation and effects in the human body, and on a worst case exposure estimate (see Exposure), no
further testing of fertility is considered required under SIDS.
Gastro-intestinal irritant effects in humans caused by KCl administrated orally have been reported at doses from
about 31 mg/kg bw/day. One epidemiological investigation among potash miners disclosed no evidence of
predisposition of underground miners to any of the diseases evaluated, including lung cancer.
Environment
KCl as inorganic salt is not subjected to further degradation processes in the environment. In water, potassium
chloride is highly water soluble, and readily undergoes dissociation. In soil, transport/leaching of potassium and
chloride is affected by the clay minerals (type and content), pH, and organic matter.
In short-term acute toxicity tests with fish, daphnia and algae the following results were found (lowest test result
values): Ictalurus punctulus 48h-LC50 = 720 mg/l; Daphnia magna: 48h-LC50 = 177 mg/l; Nitzschia linearis: 120
h-EC50 = 1337 mg/l. A chronic reproductive test with the invertebrate Daphnia magna gave a LOEC of 101 mg/l.
All the studies compiled on the acute and chronic aquatic toxicity were > 100 mg/L. Thus it is concluded that KCl
is not hazardous to freshwater organisms. Taking into considerations the background concentrations of KCl in
UNEP PUBLICATIONS 3
+ -
seawater (380 mg/l K and 19,000 mg/l Cl ), it is concluded that there is no reason for further investigations of KCl
on marine species. The low concern for the environment is supported by the absence of a bioaccumulation potential
for the substance.
In plants, potassium is one of the three major nutrients and chloride is an essential micronutrient. The potassium
requirement for optimal plant growth is in the range 2-5 % of the plant dry weight of vegetative parts. In most plant
species the Cl requirement for optimal growth is in the range of 0.2-0.4 mg/g dry matter.
Potassium in plants is important for the osmotic and ionic regulation, plays a key role in the water homeostasis, and
is closely connected with processes involved in the protein synthesis. In higher plants, potassium affects
photosynthesis at various levels. Cl is also essential for the photosynthesis in plants, and has important functions in
the osmotic regulation. An adequate supply of potassium and chloride in plants tends to improve the plant’s
resistance towards several diseases.
Exposure
World-wide production figures for KCl exceed 1 million metric tons/year. Virtually all commercial KCl is extracted
from natural sources of the substance. More than 90 % of the total KCl consumption is used for fertilizer
production. Production of potassium hydroxide accounts for more than 90 % of the non-fertilizer or industrial uses
of KCl. Other non-fertilizer uses of KCl include food/foodstuff additives, supplement of animal feed,
pharmaceutical products, laboratory chemicals, deicing agents and photo chemicals.
KCl is ubiquitous in the environment, occurring in minerals, soil and sediments, and natural waters. KCl is also
present as a major and essential constituent in animals and plants. The main human exposure to KCl is the normal
dietary intake (2-4 g K and 3.5-9 g Cl), and indirect exposure via the environment (drinking water).
Specific occupational exposure limits (OELs) and actual exposure levels in the mining, refining, fertilizer and other
industries have not been found. Assuming 100 % body retention breathing from a working atmosphere containing
10 mg/m3 KCl (in accordance with the TWA value for "Particulates Not Otherwise Classified), a worker’s daily
inhalation dose for KCl was calculated to 140 mg (worst case).
NATURE OF FURTHER WORK RECOMMENDED
No recommendation.
4 UNEP PUBLICATIONS
FULL SIDS SUMMARY

CAS NO: 7447-40-7 SPECIES PROTOCOL RESULTS
PHYSICAL-CHEMICAL
2.1 Melting Point 772 °C
2.2 Boiling Point 1407 °C
2.3 Density 1984 kg/m3
2.4 Vapour Pressure 5.73 hPa at 906 °C
2.5 Partition Coefficient Calculated -0.46
(Log Pow)
2.6 A. Water Solubility 342000 mg/l at 20°C
ENVIRONMENTAL FATE AND

PATHWAY
3.1.1 Photodegradation N.A.
3.1.2 Stability in Water N.A.

3.2 Monitoring Data In surface water 2.3 mg K +/l
In surface water 8.3 mg Cl-/l
In seawater 380 mg K +/l
In seawater 19000 mg Cl-/l
In topsoil 0.2-3.3 % K +
In KCl principal minerals 25-99 % KCl
In humans (ad.) 2 g K +/ kg bw
In humans (ad.) 1 g Cl -/kg bw
3.3 Transport and Distribution Calculated In Air 0.03 %
(Fugacity Level 1 type) In Water 99.7 %
In Sediment 0.01 %
In Soil 0.03 %
3.5 Biodegradation N.A.
ECOTOXICOLOGY
4.1 Acute/Prolonged Toxicity to Pimephales US-EPA, 1990 LC50 (24 hr) = 950 mg/l
Fish promelas LC50 (48 hr) = 910 mg/l
LC50 (96 hr) = 880 mg/l
Ictalurus Other LC50 (48 hr) = 720 mg/l

punctatus
4.2 Acute Toxicity to Aquatic Daphnia magna US-EPA, 1990 EC50 (24 hr) = 740 mg/l
Invertebrates EC50 (48 hr) = 660 mg/l
Ceriodaphnia US-EPA, 1990 EC50 (48 hr) = 630 mg/l
dubia
Daphnia magna Other EC50 (48h)=177 mg/l
4.3 Toxicity to Aquatic Plants Nitzschia linearis Other EC50 (120 hr) = 1337 mg/l
e.g. Algae
4.5.2 Chronic toxicity to aquatic Daphnia magna Other EC50 (21d) = 130 mg/l
invertebrates LOEC (21d) = 101 mg/l (16 %
reproduction impairment)
TO XICOLOGY
5.1.1 Acute Oral Toxicity Rat Other LD 50 = 3020 mg/Kg
5.4 Repeated Dose Toxicity Rat Other No adverse effects observed up to 1820
mg/Kg bw/day
5.5 Genetic Toxicity In Vitro
A. Bacterial Test S. typhimurium Other (NTP modified - (With metabolic activation)
(Gene mutation) standard assay) - (Without metabolic activation)
E. coli
Other (SOS - (Without metabolic activation)
Chromotest)
UNEP PUBLICATIONS 5
CAS NO: 7447-40-7 SPECIES PROTOCOL RESULTS
Chromotest)
B. Non-Bacterial In Vitro Test Mouse OECD 476 + (With metabolic activation)
(Gene mutation) lymphoma cells - (Without metabolic activation)
(Chromosomal aberrations) Hamster ovary Other + (Without metabolic activation)
cells (CHO)
(Genmutation) Chinese hamster OECD 476 + (With metabolic activation)
V79 cells + (Without metabolic activation)
(Chromosomal aberrations) CHO cells OECD 473 - (With metabolic activation)
+ (Without metabolic activation)
(Unscheduled DNA HeLa cells OECD 482 - (With metabolic activation)
synthesis) - (Without metabolic activation)
5.6 Genetic Toxicity In Vivo No data
5.7 Carcinogenicity Rat Other No tumours related to treatment
5.8 Toxicity to Reproduction No data
5.9 Developmental Toxicity/ Mice Other No effects observed at the highest dose
Teratogenicity level 235 mg/kg/day
Rat Other No effects observed at the highest dose
level 310 mg/kg/day
5.11 Experience with Human Work place exposure Negative
Exposure among potash miners
Other Gastro-intestinal irritant effects
6 UNEP PUBLICATIONS
SIDS INITIAL ASSESSMENT REPORT
1 CHEMICAL IDENTITY
Name (OECD): Potassium chloride
CAS No.: 7447-40-7
Molecular Formula: Cl-K
Molecular Weight: 74.55
Melting Point: 772 °C [1] [2]
Boiling Point: 1407 °C [2]
Vapour pressure: 5.73 hPa at 906 °C [3]
Partition Coefficient: -0.46 at 20 °C [4]
Water solubility: 342 g/l water at 20 °C [5][6]
Potassium chloride is a solid. Impurities are usually sodium chloride, magnesium chloride, bromide
and alkaline earth sulphates, depending on the raw material and production process [6]. Potassium
chloride is readily soluble in water to potassium and chloride ions, and has a low vapour pressure.
UNEP PUBLICATIONS 7
2 GENERAL INFORMATION ON EXPOSURE [7]
Potassium chloride (KCl), commonly referred to as muriate of potash, is the most common source
of potash (K2O), and accounts for about 95 % of world potash production. Virtually all (90 %)
commercial potash is extracted from natural sources of potassium salt deposits occurring in thin
beds in large salt basins formed by the evaporation of ancient seas. Present-day salt lakes and
natural brines represent about 10 % of total recoverable potash. Extraction is followed by milling,
washing, screening, flotation, crystallization, refining and drying.
The annual global production volume of potash was approximately 22.6 million metric tons in
1994. World potash production is confined to thirteen countries and is dominated by Canada, the
former USSR and Germany, which together account for about 73 % of world production. The
United States, Israel and France account for about 15 %, and Jordan, Spain and the United
Kingdom for an additional 11 %.
More than 90 % of the total KCl consumption is used for fertilizer production. Production of
potassium hydroxide accounts for more than 90 % of the non-fertilizer or industrial use of KCl.
KOH is also used in the production of some agricultural-grade liquid fertilizers. Other non-fertilizer
uses of KCl include:
- wide dispersive use:

- food/ foodstuff additives: KCl is used as a nutrient and/or dietary supplement food additive.
KCl also serves as a potassium supplement of animal feed;
- pharmaceutical products: KCl is used for prophylaxis and treatment of hypokalemia, in
electrolyte replenishment solutions for general medical use and kidney dialysis, and in
digitalis intoxication;
- laboratory chemicals: KCl is used in electrode cells, buffer solutions, and spectroscopy;
- photochemicals;
- drilling mud for oil production industry: KCl is used as conditioner in oil drilling muds and as
a shale stabilizer to prevent swelling;
- flame retardants and fire preventing agents: KCl is used as a component in dry chemical fire
extinguisher.
- anti-freezing agents: KCl is used to melt ice on streets and driveways;
- water treatment;
- detergent builders;
- glass and ceramics;
- textiles;
- dyes;
- non-dispersive use:
- flux agents for casting: KCl serves as a flux in secondary aluminium processing,
- use resulting in inclusion into or into matrix:
- intermediates for basic chemicals industry.
2.1 ENVIRONMENTAL FATE

KCl is ubiquitous in the environment, occurring in minerals, soil and sediments, and natural waters
(oceans, lakes, rivers). An overview of background concentrations of KCl is presented in Table 2-1.
8 UNEP PUBLICATIONS
Table 2-1. Background concentrations of potassium chloride.
Medium Concentration References

Minerals sylvinite: > 99 % KCl [7]
carnallite: approx. 25 % KCl
kainite: approx. 30 % KCl
Soil (topsoil) 0.2-3.3 % total potassium [7]
Seawater 380 mg/l potassium (K +) [8]
19 000 mg/l chloride (Cl-)
Freshwater (mean composition of river waters) 2.3 mg/l potassium (K +) [9]
8.3 mg/l chloride (Cl-)
KCl as inorganic salt is not subjected to further degradation processes in the environment. In water,
potassium chloride is highly water soluble, and readily undergoes dissociation. In soil,
transport/leaching of potassium and chloride is affected by clay minerals (type and content), pH,
and organic matter [10-11]. K is in general less mobile and less prone to leaching than anions in
soil, such as chloride and nitrate (NO3-). Chloride binds only weakly to soil particles, and therefore
follows water movement. Anions do not leach alone, but always together with a counter-ion
(cation). Hence, chloride and nitrate leaching may deplete soils of nutrients such as K. Loss of
potassium by erosion or leaching carries no environmental concern.
Agricultural soil productivity is dependent on establishing a balanced availability of potassium

throughout the growing season, often resulting in the need of fertilizing with potassium. Inadequate
maintenance of K in agricultural soils will lead to loss of soil productivity. K deficiencies may also
restrict a crop’s ability to utilize N, resulting in increased potential for nitrate leaching, and lack of
K can enhance a crop’s susceptibility to disease and increase the need for pesticide application.
Environmental distribution of potassium chloride using a Generic Level I Fugacity Model under
three emission scenarios showed that KCl is mainly distributed to water (99.7 %), while other
compartments make minor contributions (< 0.03 % to air, < 0.03 % to soil solids, < 0.01 % to
sediment solids). This result applied under the three emissions scenarios 100 % release to water,
100 % release to air, or 100 % release to soil [12]. Fugacity estimations may not be reliable for KCl.
The modelling programs used are designed for organic chemicals and the chemical is not expected
to undergo photolysis or biodegradation.
Taking into consideration the physico-chemical properties of potassium chloride, and a calculated
octanol/water partition coefficient of – 0.46, no potential for bioaccumulation/ bioconcentration can
be identified.
2.2 HUMAN EXPOSURE
KCl is ubiquitous in the environment, occurring in minerals, soil and sediments, and natural waters
(Table 2-1). KCl is also present as a natural and essential constituent in biota, plants and animals.
Hence, the main human exposure to KCl is indirect exposure via the environment, and the normal
dietary intake. The normal daily dietary intake of potassium and chloride in humans is 50-100
mmol (2-4 g), and 100-250 mmol (3.5-9 g) respectively [13-14].
Worst-case estimate for exposure of workers to KCl dust by inhalation:

No data on actual exposure levels in the mining, refining, fertilizer and other industries have been
found. However, assuming 100 % body retention breathing from a working atmosphere containing
10 mg/m3 KCl, the daily intake through inhalation during an 8 hr working day will only amount to
140 mg (breathing rate 30 l/min., medium hard work) as compared to a dietary intake of 2-4 g.
UNEP PUBLICATIONS 9
No specific occupational exposure limits (OELs) for potassium chloride has been located. Norsk
Hydro ASA recommend the substance to be treated as "nuisance dust" with an OEL of 10 mg/m3,
in accordance with the TWA value for "Particulates Not Otherwise Classified" as proposed by
ACGIH. In the worst-case estimate it is assumed that the air concentration of dust equals the OEL
and that the dust consists solely of KCl.
10 UNEP PUBLICATIONS
3 HUMAN HEALTH HAZARDS
3.1 EFFECTS ON HUMAN HEALTH
3.1.1 TOXICOKINETICS, METABOLISM, MECHANISMS OF ACTION [15-16]
Potassium and chloride are essential constituents and two of the most abundant ions in all animal
species. In adult humans, the total body potassium is approx. 3.5 mol (135 g). 98 % of this is
located intracellular (150 mmol/l), the extracellular potassium concentration is approx. 4 mmol/l.
Total body chloride in adult humans is approx. 2.1 mol (75 g). 80 % of this is located extracellularly
(120 mmol/l); the intracellular concentration of chloride is approx. 3-4 mmol/l.
The metabolism and mechanisms of action of potassium and chloride are well reviewed in standard
textbooks on pharmacology and physiology.
Metabolism, biotransformation and kinetics:

About 90 % of the ingested dose of potassium is absorbed by passive diffusion in the membrane of
the upper intestine. Potassium is distributed to all tissues where it is the principal intracellular
cation. Insulin, acid-base status, aldosterone, and adrenergic activity regulate cellular uptake of
potassium.
The majority of ingested potassium is excreted in the urine via glomelural filtration. The distal
tubules are able to secrete as well as reabsorb potassium, so they are able to produce a net secretion of
potassium to achieve homeostasis in the face of a potassium load due to abnormally high levels of
ingested potassium. About 15 % of the total amount of potassium excreted is found in faeces. Cl
leaves the tubular lumen by secondary active transport of sodium, and also passive diffusion.
Excretion and retention of potassium is mainly regulated by the main adrenal cortical hormones.
Normal homeostatic mechanisms controlling the serum potassium levels allow a wide range of
dietary intake. The renal excretory mechanism is designed for efficient removal of excess K, rather
for its conservation during deficiency. Even with no intake of K, humans lose a minimum of 585-
1170 mg K per day. However, the distribution of potassium between the intracellular and the
extracellular fluids can markedly affect the serum potassium level without a change in total body
potassium.
Mechanisms of action:
K+ is the principal cation mediating the osmotic balance of the body fluids. In animals, the
maintenance of normal cell volume and pressure depends on Na+ and K + pumping. The K+/Na+
separation has allowed for evolution of reversible transmembrane electrical potentials essential for
nerve and muscle action in animals, and both potassium and chloride are important in transmission
of nerve impulses to the muscle fibers.
Potassium transport through the hydrofobic interior of a membrane can be facilitated by a number
of natural compounds that form lipid-soluble alkali metal cation complexes. Potassium serves the
critical role as counterion for various carboxylates, phosphates and sulphates, and stabilizes
macromolecular structures.
Potassium and chloride is also important in the regulation of the acid-base balance of the body.
Potassium is the principal base in tissues of blood cells, and Cl maintains electrochemical neutrality
by anion exchange with bicarbonate (the chloride shift) in the CO2 transport in the blood red cells.
UNEP PUBLICATIONS 11
3.1.2 ACUTE TOXICITY
None of the studies on acute toxicity have been carried out under national or international
guidelines, and according to GLP. Collectively, however, these studies (summarized in Table 3-1)
show effects in the similar range of doses for given animal species.
Table 3-1. Acute toxicity studies with potassium chloride.

Species, strain Administration Endpoint Value References
(mg/kg body weight)
Rat, Wistar Oral LD50 3020 [17]
Rat, Wistar Oral LDL0 2430 [18]
Guinea pig Oral LDL0 2500 [18]
Rat, Wistar i.p. LD50 660 [19]
Rat, Wistar i.p. LDL0 825 [18]
Rat i.v. LD50 142 [20]
Mouse i.v. LD50 117 [21]
Guinea pig i.p. LDL0 900 [18]
Guinea pig i.v. LDL0 77 [22]
Guinea pig i.a. LDL0 130 [23]
Guinea pig i.c LDL0 40 [24]
By oral administration, LD50-values of KCl have been determined to 3020 mg/kg body weight for
rats [17]. Clinical signs of intoxication in animals that died included convulsions followed by
exhaustion and respiratory failure. Autopsy revealed signs of irritant gastro-enteritis, and necrosis
appeared in the renal tubular epithelium. Animals surviving the LD50 dose had convulsive
movements, diarrhoea or constipation, loss of appetite, increased thirst and urine excretion and fever.
Measurements of clinical signs were within the normal range within 2-3 days and organ weights and
water levels returned to normal limits in survivors at two weeks after administration of KCl.
No data is available on the acute inhalation or acute dermal toxicity for potassium chloride. Due to
the low vapour pressure and the low octanol-water partition coefficient of the substance, the
potential for inhalation and dermal absorption is considered low.
3.1.2.1 HUMAN DATA

Acute KCl intoxication by oral intake is rare because large single doses usually induce vomiting
and because in the absence of pre-existing kidney damage, potassium is rapidly excreted. Cases of
acute KCl overload in humans due to accidental or intentional oral intake have been reported,
however: a 2 month-old 4.8 kg boy died 2 days after accidentally being fed 1.5 g KCl (LDL0
approx. 938 mg/kg body weight/2 days) [23], and a 46 year-old woman died after ingesting 35 g
KCl in the form of slow-release KCl tablets [24].
KCl overdoses manifests in neuromuscular signs in the form of general muscular weakness and
ascending paralysis, listlessness, vertigo, mental confusion, hypotension, acute cardiovascular
changes with ECG abnormalities, and heart block. Gastrointestinal symptoms manifest as nausea,
vomiting, paralytic ileus, and local mucosal necrosis, which may lead to perforation [25-26].
Serum potassium level of 40 mg/100 ml is fatal in man [27]. Probable oral lethal dose for humans is
estimated to 500-5000 mg/kg [28]. Judging from the animal data and reference [24] it seems fair to
assume that the actual value is in the upper region of this estimate.
The skin irritancy of topically applied KCl in aqueous solution was measured in human volunteers
[54]. A chamber-scarification test was used. In this test a forearm test site is criss-cross scarified by
drawing a 30-gauge needle over the skin with just enough pressure to cleave the epidermis without
drawing blood. The test agent was applied in an aluminium chamber sealed to the skin once daily
for three days. A threshold concentration for irritancy of 60 % was seen when KCl in aqueous
solution was in contact with the intact skin of volunteers. The threshold concentration when applied
to broken skin for the same amount of time was 5 %. The scarification indices were 12. No grading
of the skin irritating potential was measured in this study. No more relevant information was
available in the study report.
3.1.3 REPEATED DOSE TOXICITY
None of the repeated dose toxicity studies located have been carried out under national or
international guidelines, and according to GLP. The robust summaries lack necessary details
because limited details are reported in the original publication. In view of the experiences with
human volunteers, and the well-established mechanisms of action of this substance, the information
available is considered sufficient on this endpoint.
Groups of 50 male rats were fed KCl in the diet at levels of 110, 450 or 1820 mg/kg bw/day for 2
years. The only treatment related effects observed were gastritis (inflammation of the stomach
linking), an irritant effect. The level of gastritis and ulcer were higher in the treated groups compared
to the control groups; 18 % in the 110 and 450 mg/kg bw/day groups and 30 % in the 1820 mg/kg
bw/day group, compared to 6 % in the control group. Absolute and relative organ weights were
measured for the following organs; brain, pituitary, thymus, heart, lung, liver, spleen, pancreas,
kidney, adrenal gland, testis, seminal vesicle and prostate. However, no statistically significant
changes were reported in any organs at any dose levels. Among non-tumerous lesions, nephritis was
predominant in all groups, including the control group. At the end of the 2 year experimental period,
the survival rates were 64 % in 0.25 % KCl, 58 % in 1 % KCl, 84 % in 4 % KCl, and 48 % in control
groups [29]. The weakness of this study relates to the fact that the results are not given in sufficient
detail, and that the mortality in the control group is very high (over 50%). In addition, the possible
effect of KCl on kidneys can not be evaluated because of limited reporting and the fact that all
animals, including controls, had nefrotic lesions. The NOAEL from this study is set at 1820 mg/kg
bw/day since nephritis was reported in all treatment groups as well as in the control group. As
regard the gastritis, this is considered a local effect, and is not used for deriving a NOAEL value.
In a 15-week study on rats, about 5250 mg/kg body weight/day given in the drinking water caused a
decrease in heart weight, an increase in kidney weight and enlargement of part of the adrenals (no
other organs were examined) in 10 animals terminated. All changes were reversible within one month
in the remaining 4 animals [30].
3.1.3.1 HUMAN DATA

No overt adverse effects were seen in 43 women receiving 80 mmol KCl/day (approx. 85 mg/kg
body weight/day) in a wax matrix formulation for 4 weeks. The volunteers were randomly allocated
to one of two groups who took either 80 mmol/day of KCl, or matching placebo for the first two 4-
week treatment periods. The treatments were reversed during the second 4-week period. Blood
pressure, heart rate, urinary volume, electrolytes and creatinine, were measured weekly during a
screening period and the two 4-weeks treatment periods [31].
No overt adverse effects were seen on 32 females receiving 65 mmol KCl/day (about 69 mg/kg
body weight/day) for 6 weeks. The women were randomly allocated to one of two groups who took
either 65 mmol/day of KCl, or matching placebo for a 6 weeks treatment period. The treatments
were reversed after the 6-week period. Blood pressure, and urinary electrolytes (sodium and
potassium) and creatinine, were measured weekly during the treatment period. Plasma sodium and
potassium and serum albumin, calcium and magnesium were measured at 6th week only. The study
showed that the KCl intake induced a significant reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure,
from 153/104 to 146/101, and a significant increase in serum and urine potassium. Changes in
blood pressure did not correlate with changes in serum or urine electrolytes. Analysis of the 95 %
confidence intervals in this and five other studies suggests that KCl supplementation lower blood
pressure, but that the change is small and within the confidence levels of all six trials [32].
3.1.4 GENETIC TOXICIT Y [33-38]
The reliability of the studies cited on genetic toxicity is considered sufficient for this endpoint. Two
of the studies on non-bacterial mammalian cell in vitro test were carried out in accordance with
OECD guideline study.
Bacterial tests:
In a Salmonella test (using the TA100, TA 1535, TA 1537 and TA 98 strains) doses of KCl
between 0 and 10.000 µg/plate were tested with and without metabolic activation. No significant
increases in mutation frequencies were noted. The highest dose tested in this study is higher than
the standard test requirements. In an E. Coli test a maximal dose of 100.000 nM/ml of KCl was
tested for its ability to induce a SOS response. This test was also negative. The two in vitro bacterial
tests reported does not indicate any direct-acting mutagenic mechanism of action.
Lymphoma cell mutation assays:

Two independent laboratories performed the same L51784 mouse lymphoma mutation tests on a
range of substances including KCl. KCl was found to be weakly mutagenic at high concentrations
(above 7000 µg/ml without metabolic activation and above 4000 µg/ml with metabolic activation).
The concentration in the test without metabolic activation, causing mutagenicity, exceeded the
concentration recommended in the test guidelines.
Ch romosome aberration tests:

There are two reports on the effect of KCl on formation of chromosome aberrations in Chinese
hamster ovary cells (CHO). In these studies KCl concentrations of 75 and 80 mM (approximately
5500 and 6000 µg/ml) resulted in 19 % and 28 % aberrant cells respectively. Increased number of
chromosome aberrations was observed with KCl concentrations that reduced cell survival 40 % and
more. It is reasonable to conclude that the increases in mutagenicity and chromosome aberrations
observed in these studies are related to cytotoxicity resulting from the high KCl concentrations
used. This argument is supported by the studies on the effect of increased osmolarity on
genotoxicity in cultured mammalian cells.
The reported mutagenic effect of KCl most probably results from a disruption of osmotic balance of
cells with a subsequent interference with chromosomal stability. This may result in the clastogenic
effects (DNA breakage and chromosome structural instability) due to K+ effects on sequestering of
Mg2+ ions required for normal maintenance of chromatin integrity. Other chemicals may also exert
such effect (e.g. NaCl, sucrose).
3.1.5 CARCINOGENICITY [29]
In a long-term study performed with KCl, no carcinogenic effects were observed in male rats.
Groups of 50 male rats were fed KCl in the diet at levels of 110, 450 or 1820 mg/kg bw/day for 2
years. A comprehensive examination of the tissue revealed no evidence of treatment-related
carcinogenicity. Among non-tumerous lesions, nephrotic lesion was predominant in all treatment
groups as well as in the control group. In tumerous lesions, testicular tumour (interstitial cell
tumour) developed with a high incident in all groups. However, the incidence and type of tumour in
experimental and control groups were comparable to those of spontaneous tumours in the test
organisms.
3.1.6 REPRODUCTIVE TOXICITY/DEVELOPMENTAL TOXICITY [39]
The two studies on developmental toxicity available were not carried out under national or
international guidelines, and according to GLP. The robust summaries lack necessary details
because limited details are reported in the original publication. In view of the quality of the studies
available, and the well-established mechanisms of action of KCl, the information available is
considered sufficient on this endpoint.
A developmental study has been performed that examined the effect of KCl exposure on
foetotoxicity and teratogenicity in virgin adult female albino rats (Wistar) and virgin adult female
albino CD-1 outbred mice. Female rats or mice were mated with young adult male rats and mice,
respectively, and observation of the vaginal sperm plug was considered day 0 of gestation. KCl was
administrated from day 5 to day 15 of gestation to groups of 21-24 experimental animals by single
daily oral intubation. KCl was administered as a water solution, 10 ml per kg body weight. The
controls were sham treated with the vehicle i.e. water. Doses for mice were 2.35-235.0 mg/kg body
weight. Body weights were recorded on days 0, 6, 11, 15 and 17 of gestation. Post exposure
observation period was 2 days. Doses for rats were 3.1- 310.0 mg/kg body weight. Body weights
were recorded on days 0, 6, 11, 15 and 20 of gestation. The dams were subjected to Caesarean
section on gestation day 17 for mice and 20 for rats. Post exposure observation period was 5 days.
The urogenital tract of each dam was examined in detail for anatomical normality.
The administration of up to 235 mg/kg body weight of KCl to pregnant mice or up to 310 mg/kg
body weight of KCl to pregnant rats, revealed no significant effects on survival, total number of
corpora lutea, implant sites, resorptions, soft tissue observations (urogenital tract), or live offspring. In
the offspring, no effects were seen in mice or rats with regard to survival, sex ratio, average offspring
weight, external congenital abnormalities, soft tissue defects (cleft palate), or skeletal defects
(sternebrae, ribs, vertebrae, skull and extremities). No further information about the test conditions
were included in the study report.
No fertility study has been localised. Thus, the potential of reproductive toxicity of KCl has thereby
not been addressed according to OECD requirements. However, in the 2-year study [29] no changes
were reported in the absolute and relative organ weights of the testis, seminal vesicle, and prostate.
Furthermore, the maximum plasma concentration of potassium is efficiently and tightly regulated
by renal elimination. A significant increase in the potassium concentration in the extracellular fluid
will only occur after high potassium intake or in patients with severely reduced kidney function.
Based on an estimated worst-case scenario for exposure of workers for KCl (see Sect. 2.2), it is
concluded that the maximum intake of 140 mg/day of KCl from the working atmosphere is small
compared to a normal dietary intake of 2-4 g KCl/day. It is considered unlikely that exposure for
KCl in the working environment or normal dietary intake will significantly alter the plasma
concentration of potassium. No effects of KCl exposure on gonadal function can be expected if the
plasma KCl concentrations are within the normal range, as neither potassium nor chloride
accumulates in the body. Based on the extensive amount of knowledge on KCl intake, regulation
and effects in the human body, and on the exposure estimate in Sect. 2.2, no further testing of
fertility is considered required.
3.1.8 OTHER INFORMATION
3.1.8.1HUMAN DATA
Study on work place exposure: [40]
One study related to work place exposure/potash mining has been located, in which eight
companies from the potash and milling industry in USA co-operated in the investigation.
Comparison was made between the observed risk of dying among the study cohort, with that
expected according to age, sex, race, calendar time, and cause specific mortality rates for the
general population of the United States.
The field studies conducted failed to disclose any evidence of predisposition of underground miners
to any of the diseases evaluated, including lung cancer. Secondly, the study concluded there is no
reason to believe that the underground environment increases respiratory diseases when
pneumoconiosis producing dust or radon decay products are absent or present in only minute
amounts. Exposure to dust, i.e. sodium and potassium salts, commonly encountered in the potash
industry did not influence mortality due to heart disease or cerebrovascular accidents. A deficit of
death from cancers other than respiratory among the surface workers could not be explained.
Gastric irritation: [41-45]

Gastro-intestinal irritant effects caused by KCl administrated orally has been reported at doses from
about 31 mg/kg body weight/day. Oral preparations may cause nausea, vomiting, epigastric distress,
abdominal discomfort and diarrhoea. High, local concentrations in the gastrointestinal tract can lead
to ulceration. Esophageal ulceration may occur of there is dysphagia and gastric ulceration,
especially if gastric emptying is delayed. Enteric coating lessens the incident of such side effects,
but favours the development of small bowel lesions. In a wax matrix it has been promoted as a safe
form, but esophageal, gastric and small bowel ulcerations nevertheless occur occasionally. If such
forms are used, they should be taken with water.
Therapeutic uses of KCl: [25]

Diarrhoea, emsis, diuresis, starvation, prolonged saline infusion, or dietary deficiency may lead to
K deficiency, which is characterized by muscle weakness, cardiac arrhythmia, paralysis, bone
fragility, sterility, adrenal hypertrophy, decreased growth rate, loss of weight and death.
Potassium chloride is of value for the relief of symptoms of hypokaliemic periodic paralysis, and the
symptoms of Meniere’s disease. Daily intake of potassium decreases the risk of stroke-associated
mortality.
The salt (KCl) is most frequently used when the action of potassium cation is desired. Usual
therapeutic doses of potassium for oral solution-adults are 1.5-3 g/day to prevent depletion, and 3-
7.5 g/day for replacement. Doses given by intravenous infusion (adults) are not to exceed a total
dose of 200-400 mEq/day, depending on plasma potassium levels.
3.2 INITIAL ASSESSMENT OF HUMAN HEALTH
Potassium and chloride are essential constituents and two of the most abundant ions in all humans,
as in all animal species. Uptake, transport, distribution, excretion, and the homeostatic regulation of
KCl is well established, as are the mechanisms of action. KCl is essential for intracellular osmotic
pressure and buffering, cell permeability, acid-base balance, muscle contraction and nerve function.
Acute oral toxicity of KCl in mammals is low. In humans, acute oral toxicity is rare because large
single doses induce nausea and vomiting, and because KCl is rapidly excreted in the absence of any
pre-existing kidney damage. Hyperkalemia will occur only in conjunction with other factors that
alter potassium homeostasis, such as renal inefficiency, ingestion of excess K+ and the use of drugs
that promote potassium retention. KCl overdoses manifests in gastrointestinal and neuromuscular
symptoms, cardiac arrythmia and heart block. In light of the given vapour pressure and partition
coefficient it can be assumed that exposure towards KCl is exclusively given by oral intake.
All studies located on repeated dose toxicity indicate low toxicity of KCl by oral administration. A
2 years study on rats suggests NOAEL at 1820 mg/kg bw/day, although stomach irritating effect
was reported. A 15 weeks study on rats showed reversible effects on heart and kidney weight by
intake of 5250 mg KCl/kg bw/day. Two studies on human volunteers, indicated respectively NOEL
> 80 mmol KCl/day (approx. 85 mg/kg body weight/day), and 65 mmol KCl/day (about 88 mg/kg
body weight/day).
High concentrations of KCl showed positive results in a range of genotoxic screening assays using
cells in culture, but the results have been attributed to the changed physical environment of the cells
rather than to a direct genotoxic effect. The action of KCl in culture seems to be an indirect effect
associated with an increased osmotic pressure and concentration, and may not, therefore, be of any
direct relevance in the intact body were such concentrations can not occur. Further studies using in-
vivo systems are not considered necessary.
No evidence of treatment-related carcinogenicity was observed in rats administered up to 1820 mg

KCl/kg body weight/day through the food in a 2 year study.
A developmental study revealed no foetotoxic or teratogenic effects of KCl in doses up to 235

mg/kg/day (mice) and 310 mg/kg/day (rats). No fertility study has been localised. Based on the
extensive amount of knowledge on KCl intake, regulation and effects in the human body, and on an
exposure estimate (maximum intake of 140 mg/day of KCl from the working atmosphere compared
to a normal dietary intake of 2-4 g KCl/day), no further testing of fertility is considered required.
Gastro-intestinal irritant effects in humans caused by KCl administrated orally have been reported
at doses from about 31 mg/kg body weight/day.
4 HAZARDS TO THE ENVIRONMENT
4.1 AQUATIC EFFECTS
In one published study carried out under national guidelines and with reliable procedure
description, the following results on acute aquatic toxicity were found: Pimephales promelas: 96 h-
LC50 = 880 mg/l (± 15); Daphnia magna: 48h EC50 = 177 mg/l; Ceriodaphnia dubia: 48 h-EC50 =
630 mg/l (± 14) [46].
Several studies on acute aquatic toxicity have been published, but none of them under national or
international guidelines, and according to GLP. The results reported in these studies have to be
interpreted with care because of deficiencies in test procedure description or because they do not
conform to presently accepted standard guidelines. Some of these studies are reported below. For
fish species, these studies show effects in the similar range of doses: two studies on Lepomis
macrochirus [47-48], one study on Oncorhyncus mykiss and one study on Ictalurus punctatus
showed 48 h-LC50 values in the range 720-2010 mg/l [49]. The toxicity of KCl has been
investigated in one algae species (Nitzschia linearis), showing 120 h-EC50 (growth rate) of 1337
mg/l [47].
In two separate studies on aquatic invertebrates, Physa heterostropha (snail) [47] and Nitocra
spinipes (a marine Crustacea) [50], the 96 h-LC50 values were respectively 940 and 854 mg/l. Two
studies on Dreissena polymorpha (zebra mussel) showed 24 h-LC50 = 138 mg/l [49], and 48 h-
LC50 = 150 mg/l (20-25 mm adults) [51]. An acute test on Daphnia magna was performed initially
in the chronic study reported below, this test gave an 48h EC50 of 177 mg/l [53].
A long term (21 day) study has been performed on Daphnia magna [53] where effects on
reproduction were investigated for several metals. A 16 % impairment of reproduction (LOEC) was
observed at a concentration of 53 mg/l of K +, equal to KCl concentration of 101 mg/l.
4.2 TERRESTRIAL EFFECTS
Toxicity to terrestrial plants: [10-11][52]

Potassium is one of the three major nutrients and chloride is an essential micronutrient for plants.
Literature search has not revealed studies related to toxic effects on terrestrial organisms, therefore
this section only describes levels of potassium necessary for good growth of plants and its role in
plant physiology.
Demands for potassium and chloride in plants/crops:

The potassium requirement for optimal plant growth is in the range 2-5 % of the plant dry weight of
vegetative parts. In crops, uptake of K in plants ranges from about 50 to 300 kg K ha-1 per crop,
broadly similar to the uptake of nitrogen. Inadequate supply of potassium makes plants more
susceptible to frost damage, fungal attack and drought.
In most plant species the Cl requirement for optimal growth is in the range of 0.2-0.4 mg/g dry
matter. Excessive Cl is detrimental to chloride-sensitive crops, or if it is necessary to guard against
excessive salinity, and in arid areas. Cl deficiency may occur in highly leached soils with a low Cl
input from rain. The principal effect of Cl deficiency in plants is a reduction in leaf surface area and
thereby plants dry weight. With severe deficiency, necrosis might occur.
Biotransformation and kinetics in plants:
Uptake of K in plants is highly selective and closely coupled to metabolic activity. It is
characterized by high mobility in plants at all levels, within individual cells, within tissues, and in
long-distance transport via the xylem and phloem. K is the most abundant cation in the cytoplasm
and its accompanying anions make a major contribution to the osmotic potential of cells. K is not
metabolized, and it forms only weak complexes in which it is readily exchangeable.
Chloride is readily taken up by plants and its mobility in short and long-distance transport is high.
In plants, chloride occurs mainly as free anion or is loosely bound to exchange sites.
Biological effects in plants:

Potassium in plants is important for the osmotic and ionic regulation, and for a large number of
enzymes related to carbohydrate and protein metabolism. In almost all cases, cytosolic potassium
concentrations are maintained in the range 100-200 mM. Potassium activates the membrane-bound
proton pumping ATPases. This activation facilitate the transport of K from the external solution
across the plasma membrane into the root cells, and make potassium the most important mineral
element in cell extension and osmoregulation. Potassium, as the most prominent inorganic solute,
plays a key role in the water homeostasis. When K is deficient, the stomata can not function
properly and water loss from the plant may reach damaging levels. In higher plants, potassium
affects photosynthesis at various levels, playing a key role in CO2 fixation, and by affecting
photosynthesis in leaves via its stomatal regulation. Potassium is also closely connected with
processes involved in the protein synthesis in plants.
Cl is essential for the photosynthetic O2 evolution and the membrane-bound proton-pumping

ATPases. Chloride has important functions in osmoregulation at different levels. At the usually
high plant content it is a main osmoticum in the vacuoles of the bulk tissue (50-150 mM chloride).
At low contents that are in the range of a micronutrient (approx. 1 mM chloride or below), these
osmoregulatory functions of chloride are confined to specialized tissues or cells (e.g. extension
zones of roots and shoots). Cl also plays an essential role in stomatal regulations trough mediating
the opening and closure of the stomata
Effects of potassium and chloride on plant diseases:

An adequate K supply is of notable importance for plants to make protective chemicals and barriers
that restrict the progress of an infection and compensate for any damage through new growth.
Potassium tends to improve the plant’s resistance towards bacterial leaf blight, sheat blight and stem
rot in rice; black rust in wheat; sugary disease in sorghum; and bacterial leaf blight in cotton
Chloride may hinder the plant fungus disease take-all in wheat due to its apparent action as a
nitrification inhibitor. Chloride also decreases the NO3- concentration in plants, which may result in
fewer attacks of common root rot on barley.
4.3 INITIAL ASSESSMENT FOR THE ENVIRONMENT
In short-term acute toxicity tests with fish, daphnia and algae the following results were found
(lowest test result values): Ictalurus punctatus: 48 h LC50 =720 mg/l, Daphnia magna : 48h-EC50 =
177 mg/l; Nitzschia linearis: 120 h-EC50 = 1337 mg/l. A chronic reproductive test with the
invertebrate Daphnia magna gave a LOEC of 101 mg/l. All the studies compiled on the acute and
chronic aquatic toxicity were > 100 mg/l. Thus, it is concluded that KCl is not hazardous to
freshwater aquatic organisms. Taking into considerations the background concentrations of KCl in
seawater (380 mg/l K+ and 19,000 mg/l Cl-), it is concluded that there is no need for further
investigations of KCl on marine species. The low concern for the environment is supported by the
absence of a bioaccumulation potential for the substance.
Potassium is one of the three major nutrients and chloride is an essential micronutrient for plants.
vegetative parts. In most plant species the Cl requirement for optimal growth is in the range of 0.2-
0.4 mg/g dry matter. Concentrations of chloride in the external solution of more than 20 mM can
lead to toxicity in sensitive plant species.
Uptake of K in plants is closely coupled to metabolic activity. K is the most abundant cation in the
cytoplasm and its accompanying anions make a major contribution to the osmotic potential of cells.
K is not metabolized, and it forms only weak complexes in which it is readily exchangeable.
Chloride, which is readily taken up by plants, occurs mainly as free anion or is loosely bound to
exchange sites.
Potassium in plants is important for the osmotic and ionic regulation, plays a key role in the water
homeostasis, and is closely connected with processes involved in the protein synthesis. In higher
plants, potassium affects photosynthesis at various levels. Cl is also essential for the photosynthesis
in plants, and has important functions in osmoregulation at different levels. An adequate supply of
potassium and chloride in plants tends to improve the plant’s resistance towards several diseases.
5 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
5.1 CONCLUSIONS
General Information on Exposure:

Worldwide production figures for KCl exceed 1,000,000 tons/year. Virtually all commercial KCl is
extracted from natural sources of the substance. More than 90 % of the total KCl consumption is
used for fertilizer production. Production of potassium hydroxide accounts for more than 90 % of
the non-fertilizer or industrial uses of KCl. Other non-fertilizer uses of KCl include food/foodstuff
additives, supplement of animal feed, pharmaceutical products, laboratory chemicals, deicing agents
and photochemicals.
KCl is ubiquitous in the environment, occurring in minerals, soil and sediments, and natural waters.
KCl is also present as a natural and essential constituent in animals. Potassium is one of the three
major nutrients and chloride is an essential micronutrient for plants. The main human exposure to
KCl is the normal dietary intake, and indirect exposure via the environment. One work place
investigation among potash miners disclosed no evidence of predisposition of underground miners
to any of the diseases evaluated, including lung cancer.
Human Health Hazards:

Potassium and chloride are essential constituents and two of the most abundant ions in humans.
Uptake, transport, distribution, excretion, and the homeostatic regulation of KCl is well established,
as are the mechanisms of action. KCl is essential for intracellular osmotic pressure and buffering,
cell permeability, acid-base balance, muscle contraction and nerve function.
Acute oral toxicity of KCl in mammals is low (LD50 = 3020 mg/kg bw). In humans, acute oral
toxicity is rare because large single doses induce nausea and vomiting, and because KCl is rapidly
excreted in the absence of any pre-existing kidney damage. Usual therapeutic doses of potassium
for oral solution-adults are 1.5-3 g/day to prevent depletion, and 3-7.5 g/day for replacement. For
repeated dose toxicity, no adverse effects were observed up to 1820 mg/kg bw/day in rats, and 80
mmol KCl/day (approx. 85 mg/kg bw/day) in humans.
No genmutations were reported in Bacterial tests, with and without metabolic activation. However,
high concentrations of KCl showed positive results in a range of genotoxic screening assays using
cells in culture. The action of KCl in culture seems to be an indirect effect associated with an
increased osmotic pressure and concentration. Therefore, KCl do not have any direct relevance in
the intact body were such concentrations can not occur. Further studies using in-vivo systems are
not considered necessary under SIDS
No evidence of treatment-related carcinogenicity was observed in rats administered up to 1820 mg

KCl/kg body weight/day through the food in a 2 year study.
A developmental study revealed no foetotoxic or teratogenic effects of KCl in doses up to 235

mg/kg/day (mice) and 310 mg/kg/day (rats). No fertility study has been located. Based on the
extensive amount of knowledge on KCl intake, regulation and effects in the human body, and on an
exposure estimate (maximum intake of 140 mg/day of KCl from the working atmosphere compared
to a normal dietary intake of 2-4 g KCl/day), no further testing of fertility is considered required
under SIDS.
Gastro-intestinal irritant effects in humans caused by KCl administrated orally have been reported
at doses from about 31 mg/kg body weight/day.
Hazards to the Environment:

Environmental fate:
KCl as inorganic salt is not subjected to further degradation processes in the environment. In water,
potassium chloride is highly water soluble, and readily undergoes dissociation. In soil,
transport/leaching of potassium and chloride is affected by the clay minerals (type and content), pH,
and organic matter. No potential for bioaccumulation/bioconcentration can be identified.
Ecotoxicity:
In short-term acute toxicity tests with fish, daphnia and algae the following results were found
(lowest test result values): Ictalurus punctatus: 48 h-LC50= 720 mg/l; Daphnia magna: 48h-EC50
= 177 mg/l; Nitzschia linearis: 120 h-EC50 = 1337 mg/l. A chronic reproductive test with the
invertebrate Daphnia magna gave a LOEC of 101 mg/l.
All the studies compiled on the acute and chronic aquatic toxicity were > 100 mg/l. Thus, it is
concluded that KCl is not hazardous to freshwater aquatic organisms. Taking into considerations
the background concentrations of KCl in seawater (380 mg/l K+ and 19,000 mg/l Cl-), it is
concluded that there is no reason for further investigations of KCl on marine species. The low
concern for the environment is supported by the absence of a bioaccumulation potential for the
substance.
In plants, potassium is one of the three major nutrients and chloride is an essential micronutrient.
vegetative parts. In most plant species the Cl requirement for optimal growth is in the range of 0.2-
0.4 mg/g dry matter.
Potassium in plants is important for the osmotic and ionic regulation, plays a key role in the water
homeostasis, and is closely connected with processes involved in the protein synthesis. In higher
plants, potassium affects photosynthesis at various levels. Cl is also essential for the photosynthesis
in plants, and has important functions in osmoregulation at different levels. An adequate supply of
potassium and chloride in plants tends to improve the plant’s resistance towards several diseases.
5.2 RECOMMENDATIONS
No further testing and/or exposure analysis is recommended.
6 REFERENCES
References for the studies relied upon in the SIAR are included. The IUCLID dossier provides a
comprehensive listing of references for potassium chloride.
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molluscicides to zebra mussels (Dreissena polymorpha) and selected nontarget organisms. J.
Great Lakes Res. 19(4):695-702.
[50] Bengtsson, B.E. (1978). Use of a harpacticoid copepod in toxicity tests. Mar. Poll. Bull.
9:238-241.
[51] Fischer, S.W., Stromberg, P., Bruner, K.A., Boulet, L.D. (1991). Molluscidial activity of
potassium to the zebra mussel, Dreissena polymorphia : toxicity and mode of action. Aquatic
Toxicology 20:219-234.
[52] Perrenoud, S. (1990). Potassium and Plant Health. IPI Research Topics No. 3. 2nd edn.
International Potash Institute (IPI), Basel.
[53] Biesinger, K.E. & Christensen, G.M (1972) effects of various metals on survival, growth ,
reproduction and metabolism of Daphnia magna. . Fish. Res. Bd. Canada (29): 1691-1700.
[54] Frosch, P.J. (1976). The chamber-scarification test for iritancy. Contact Dermatitis. 2: 314-
324.
Literature search (secondary literature, including databases):
(1) OECD’s Existing Chemicals pointer database (EXICHEM).

• TNO BIBRA Toxicity Profile (1989). Potassium chloride.
(2) Online Databases
• Ecotoxicology Database, US EPA (ECOTOX).
• Environmental Chemicals Data and Information Network (ECDIN).
• Hazardous Substances Data Bank (HSDB).
• National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).
• National Toxicology Program (NTP), Chemical Health & Safety Data.
• National Center for Biotechnology Information/National Library of Medicine
(PubMed).
• Registry of Toxic Effects of Chemical Substances (RTECS).
• Umwelt Bundes Amt, Katalog wassergefährdender Stoffe.
• UNEP CHEMICALS Data Bank Legal File.
(3) Other
• Aquire Database.
• Kali & Salz GmbH (1993). IUCLID Data Set, Potassium chloride.
• Lægreid, M., Bøckman, O.C., Kaarstad, O. (1999). Agriculture, Fertilizers and the
Environment. CABI Publishing, Cambridge.
Date of literature search: year 2000
Search criteria: Potassium chloride and/or CAS. No.
I U C L I D D a t a S e t
Existing Chemical ID: 7447-40-7

CAS No. 7447-40-7
EINECS Name Potassium chloride
EINECS No. 231-211-8
Molecular Formula ClK
Producer Related Part

Company: Norsk Hydro ASA
Creation date: 15-MAR-2001
Substance Related Part

Company: Norsk Hydro ASA
Creation date: 15-MAR-2001
Printing date: 30-MAR-2003

Revision date:
Date of last Update: 30-MAR-2003
Number of Pages: 62
Chapter (profile): Chapter: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6

Reliability (profile): Reliability: without reliability, 1, 2, 3, 4
Flags (profile): Flags: without flag, confidential, non
confidential, WGK(DE), TA-Luft (DE),
Material Safety Dataset, Directive
67/548/EEC, Key study(s) for SIDS
OECD SIDS POTASSIUM CHLORID
Date: 30-MAR 2003
1. General Information Substance ID: 7447-40-7
1.0.1 OECD and Company Information
Type: sponsor country

Name: Norsk Hydro ASA, Oslo, Norway
Partner: Date: 14-MAR-2001
Street: Bygdøy Allè 2
Town: N-0032 Oslo
Country: Norway
Phone: +47 2243 2100
Telefax: +47 2243 2611
Reliability: (1) reliable without restrictions

01-MAR-2001
1.0.2 Location of Production Site
1.0.3 Identity of Recipients
1.1 General Substance Information
Substance type: inorganic

Physical status: solid
Purity: Fertilizer grades 95-99 % weight/weight.
Industrial grades 99.0-99.5 % weight/weight.
Chemical grades 99.8-99.9 % weight/weight.

Source: Norsk Hydro ASA, Norway
Flag: non confidential
01-MAR-2001 (19)
1.1.0 Details on Template
1.1.1 Spectra
1.2 Synonyms
Chlorid draselny
Source: Norsk Hydro ASA
01-MAR-2001 (46)(62)
Chloride of potash
01-MAR-2001 (41)
Chloropotassuril
01-MAR-2001 (41)(46)(62)
Date: 30-MAR 2003
Chlorovescent
01-MAR-2001 (41)
Chlorure de potassium
01-MAR-2001 (27)
Cloreto de potassio
01-MAR-2001 (27)
Cloruro de potassio
01-MAR-2001 (27)
Cloruro di potassio
01-MAR-2001 (27)
Dipotassium dichloride
01-MAR-2001 (41)(46)(62)
Enseal
01-MAR-2001 (41)(46)(62)
Enseal potassium chloride

01-MAR-2001 (41)
Kalcorid
01-MAR-2001 (41)
Kalitabs
01-MAR-2001 (41)(46)(62)
Date: 30-MAR 2003
Kaliumchlorid
01-MAR-2001 (27)
Kaliumchloride
01-MAR-2001 (27)
Kaochlor
01-MAR-2001 (46)(62)
Kaon-Cl
01-MAR-2001 (41)(46)(62)
Kay ciel
01-MAR-2001 (46)(62)
K-contin
01-MAR-2001 (41)
K-Dur
01-MAR-2001 (62)
K-Lor
01-MAR-2001 (46)(62)
Klotrix
01-MAR-2001 (41)(46)(62)
K-prende-dome
01-MAR-2001 (46)(62)
Date: 30-MAR 2003
Muriate of potash
01-MAR-2001 (41)(62)
Natural sylvite
01-MAR-2001 (41)
Peter-KAL
01-MAR-2001 (41)
Pfiklor
01-MAR-2001 (46)(62)
Potash
01-MAR-2001 (37)
Potassium monochloride
01-MAR-2001 (41)(46)(62)
Potassium muriate
01-MAR-2001 (41)
Potavescent
01-MAR-2001 (41)(46)(62)
Rekawan
01-MAR-2001 (41)(46)(62)
Repone K
01-MAR-2001 (41)
Date: 30-MAR 2003
Slow K
01-MAR-2001 (41)(46)(62)
Span K
01-MAR-2001 (41)
Super K
01-MAR-2001 (62)
Tripotassium trichloride
01-MAR-2001 (41)(46)(62)
1.3 Impurities
Remarks: Impurities are usually sodium chloride, magnesium

chloride, bromide and alkaline earth sulphates,
depending on the raw material and production
process.
01-MAR-2001 (41)
1.4 Additives
1.5 Quantity
Quantity: Global production more than 1,000,000 tons in

1999.
EU import figure was more than 1,000,000 tons in

1994. Much of this import volume involves
intraregional trade between EU countries.
The substance was produced during the 12 months

following adoption of the EU regulation on existing
chemicals.
01-MAR-2001 (17)
Date: 30-MAR 2003
1.6.1 Labelling
Labelling: KCl is not included in Annex I of EEC Directive 67/548/EEC.

Proposed labelling: none
Flag: Directive 67/548/EEC
01-MAR-2001
1.6.2 Classification
Classification: KCl is not included in Annex I of EEC Directive 67/548/EEC.

Proposed classification: none
Flag: Directive 67/548/EEC
01-MAR-2001
1.7 Use Pattern
Type: type
Category: wide dispersive use
01-MAR-2001
Type: type
Category: non dispersive use
01-MAR-2001
Type: industrial
Category: agricultural industry
01-MAR-2001
Type: industrial
Category: basic chemicals industry
01-MAR-2001
Type: industrial
Category: photographic industry
01-MAR-2001
Type: industrial
Category: metal extraction, refining and processing industry
Date: 30-MAR 2003
01-MAR-2001
Type: industrial
Category: public domain
01-MAR-2001
Type: industrial
Category: personal and domestic
01-MAR-2001
Type: industrial
Category: other: food industry
01-MAR-2001
Type: industrial
Category: other: oil production industry
01-MAR-2001
Type: use
Category: fertilizers
01-MAR-2001
Type: use
Category: food/foodstuff additives
01-MAR-2001
Type: use
Category: pharmaceuticals
01-MAR-2001
Type: use
Category: photochemicals
01-MAR-2001
Date: 30-MAR 2003
Type: use
Category: laboratory chemicals: electrode cells, buffer
solutions, spectroscopy
01-MAR-2001
Type: use
Category: intermediates
01-MAR-2001
Type: use
Category: anti-freezing agents
01-MAR-2001
Type: use
Category: other: water treatment
01-MAR-2001
Type: use
Category: other: drilling mud
01-MAR-2001
Type: use
Category: flame retardants and fire preventing agents
01-MAR-2001
Type: use
Category: flux agents for casting

01-MAR-2001
1.7.1 Technology Production/Use
1.8 Occupational Exposure Limit Values
Remark: No specific occupational exposure limits (OELs) for potassium

chloride have been located. Norsk Hydro ASA recommend the
substance to be treated as “inert dust” with an OEL of 10
Date: 30-MAR 2003
mg/m 3, in accordance with the TWA value for “Particulates Not
Otherwise Classified (PNOC)” as proposed by ACGIH [].

01-MAR-2001 (1)
1.9 Source of Exposure
Remark: KCl is ubiquitous in the environment, occurring in

minerals, soil and sediments, and all natural
waters (oceans, lakes, rivers). KCl is also present
as a natural constituent in plants and animals.
Virtual all commercial KCl is extracted from two

main types of natural sources of the substance: 1)
potassium salts deposits occurring in thin beds in
large salt basins formed by the evaporation of
ancient seas; 2) present-day salt lakes and natural
brines.
01-MAR-2001 (18)
10.1 Recommendations/Precautionary Measures
Recommended by: USA, CFR21(184)

Recommendation: The substances is Generally Recognized As Safe
(GRAS) as a direct human food ingredient when
used in accordance with good manufacturing
practice.
01-MAR-2001 (27)
1.10.2 Emergency Measures
1.11 Packaging
1.12 Possib. of Rendering Subst. Harmless
1.13 Statements Concerning Waste
Classified by: EEC Council Regulation No 259/93 of 1 February

1993 on the supervision and control of shipments
of waste within, into and out of the European
Community.
Class of danger: Waste containing potassium chloride is listed in
green list of wastes.
Date: 30-MAR 2003
01-MAR-2001 (73)
Classified by: The merchant shipping regulations 1987, Schedule

I (control of pollution by noxious liquid
substances in bulk)
Class of danger: Discharge into the sea of solid potassium
chloride is prohibited; discharge into the
sea of potassium chloride solution is not
prohibited.
01-MAR-2001 (73)
1.14.1 Water Pollution
Classified by: Administrative Rules concerning Substances

Hazardous to Water (Verwaltungsvorschrift
Wassergefâhrdende Stoffe).
Class of danger: 1 (weakly water polluting)
01-MAR-2001 (72)
1.14.2 Major Accident Hazards
1.14.3 Air Pollution
1.15 Additional Remarks
1.16 Last Literature Search
1.17 Reviews
1.18 Listings e.g. Chemical Inventories
Date: 30-MAR-2003
2. Physico-chemical Data Substance ID: 7447-40-7
2.1 Melting Point
Value: = 772 degree C

Decomposition: no
Sublimation: no
Method: not stated
Reliability: (2) reliable with restrictions
Flag: Key study for SIDS
01-MAR-2001 (40)(82)
Value: = 770-776 degree C

01-MAR-2001 (41)(46)(62)(79)
2.2 Boiling Point

01-MAR-2001 (83)

01-MAR-2001 (39)
2.3 Density
Type: density
Value: = 1.984 g/cm3 at 20 degree C
01-MAR-2001 (27)(41)(79)
Type: density
Value: = 1.987 g/cm3 at 15 degree C
01-MAR-2001 (46)
2.3.1 Granulometry
2.4 Vapour Pressure
Value: = 5.73 hPa at 906 degree C

01-MAR-2001 (38)
Date: 30-MAR-2003
2.5 Partition Coefficient
log Pow: = -0.46 at 20 degree C

Method: other (calculated): according to Environmental Science,
Syracuse Research Corporation (SRC) database, USA.
01-MAR-2001 (67)
2.6.1 Water Solubility
Value: = 342 g/l water at 20 degree C

01-MAR-2001 (26)(41)
Value: = 347 g/l at at 20 degree C

01-MAR-2001 (79)
2.6.2 Surface Tension
2.7 Flash Point
Remark: Not tested; substance is a solid.

01-MAR-2001
2.8 Auto Flammability
2.9 Flammability
Remark: Not flammable; KCl is used as a component in dry-

chemical fire extinguishers to absorb some of the
heat of combustion.
01-MAR-2001 (21)
2.10 Explosive Properties
Remark: No studies located; not expected from the

structure to have explosive properties.
01-MAR-2001
Date: 30-MAR-2003
2.11 Oxidizing Properties
Remark: No studies located, but not expected from the

structure to have oxidising properties.
01-MAR-2001
Date: 30-Mar-2003
3. Environmental fate and pathw ays SUBSTANCE ID: 7447-40-7
3.1.1 Photodegradation
Remark: KCl as an inorganic salt is not subjected to

further degradation processes.
01-MAR-2001
3.1.2 Stability in Water
Remark: Potassium chloride is highly water-soluble.

Dissociates in water to K+ and Cl -.
01-MAR-2001 (26)(41)(79)
3.1.3 Stability in Soil
Remark: Potassium chloride is stable in soil.
Information on adsorption and desorption of

potassium chloride in soil is reported under item
3.3.1 Transport.
01-MAR-2001
3.2 Monitoring Data (Environment)
Type of
measurement: Background
Medium: Minerals and soils
Concentration: Sylvite is a naturally occurring mineral with more
than 99 % KCl. Other KCl principal minerals are
carnallite (KCl⋅MgCl2⋅6H 2O) with approx. 25 % KCl,
and kainite (KCl⋅MgSO 4⋅3H2O) with approx. 30 % KCl.
Potassium is the seventh most common element,

composing 2.4 % of the earth’s crust by weight. The
amount of K in the topsoil varies in the range of
0.2-3.3 %. Chloride is the eleventh most common
element, composing approx. 1-2 % of the earth’s
crust by weight.
01-MAR-2001 (20)(26)
Type of
Medium: Seawater
Concentration: 380 mg/l potassium (K+) and 19,000 mg/l chloride
(Cl-).
OECD SIDS POTASSIUM CHLORI
Date: 30-MAR-2003
3. Environmental Fate and Pathways Substance ID: 7447-40-7
01-MAR-2001 (68)
Type of
Medium: Freshwater
Concentration: Mean composition of river waters of the world
contain 2.3 mg/l potassium (K+) and 8.3 mg/l
chloride (Cl -).
Remarks: The concentrations of potassium and chloride of the
surface waters of the world is highly variable in
relation to ionic influences of drainage and
exchange from surrounding land, atmospheric sources
derived from the land, ocean, and human activity.
The spatial and temporal distribution of potassium
and chloride in natural freshwater lakes is
relatively uniform as their concentrations within a
lake undergo minor changes from biotic utilization
or biotically mediated changes.
01-MAR-2001 (81)
Type of
Medium: Animals
Concentration: Potassium and chloride are essential constituents
and two of the most abundant ions in all animal
species. The concentrations of these ions as
predominant extracellular and intracellular
electrolytes will differ somewhat among different
organisms and cell types.
In adult humans, the total body potassium is

approx. 3.5 mol (135 g). 98 % of this is located
intracellularly (mostly within muscle cells), at a
concentration of 150 mmol/l. The extracellular
potassium concentration is approx. 4 mmol/l.
Total body chloride in adult humans is approx. 2.1

mol (75 g) or 33 mmol/kg body weight. 80 % of this
is located extracellularly, at a concentration of
120 mmol/l. The intracellular concentration of
chloride is approx. 3-4 mmol/l.
01-MAR-2001 (13)(32)
Type of
Medium: Plants
Concentration: Potassium is a primary nutrient, and chloride is a
micronutrient for plants (Cl is a major element
for some coastal plants, e.g. coconut). The uptake
of K and Cl by plants will vary with crop species,
climate and soil conditions. Examples on amount of
K removed per ton of produce as harvested are 3 kg
for wheat grain and 31 kg for rough
rice/Philippines. Examples on amount of Cl removed
Date: 30-MAR-2003
per ton of produce as harvested are 0.5 kg for
potato tubers, and 10.7 kg
for rough rice/Philippines.

01-MAR-2001 (23)(29)(41)(49)
Type of
Medium: Foodstuff
Concentration: Potassium and chloride is present in all natural
foods from plants and animal sources. Potassium
content of some foodstuffs: Olives 55 mg/100 g
edible portion; peas 380 mg/100 g edible portion;
dried nonfat milk 1335 mg/100 g edible portion;
bacon 225 mg/100 g edible portion. Average
contents of Cl in plants/crops are in the range of
2-20 mg/g dry matter.
Normal daily dietary intake of potassium in humans

is 50-100 mmol (2-4 g).
Normal daily dietary intake of chloride in humans

is 100-250 mmol (3.5-9 g).
01-MAR-2001 (7)(30)
3.3.1 Transport between Environmental Compartments
Type: adsorption - desorption

Media: water - soil
Method: other
Results: Transport/leaching of potassium and chloride as
major constituents in soil has been extensively
reviewed:
Soil contains potassium in different forms: (1)
Soil solution K, which is immediately available
to plants, is present only in very small
quantities. (2) Exchangeable K, which is the main
source of replenishment, takes form of K ions
attached to the solid soil material. As the
solution K concentration falls, adsorbed K is
released into the solution. (3) Other forms of K
are more tightly held than the exchangeable K,
i.e. chemically combined in the minerals of the
rocks from which the soil is formed.
Clay minerals are the main source of K, but much

of the soil K is present as part of insoluble
mineral particles and is inaccessible to plants.
Only the slow process of weathering can liberate
this K. Outside a range of pH of approximately
5.0 to 7.0, the availability of K is reduced.
Date: 30-MAR-2003
The pool of exchangeable K is particularly

important for plants, and the main site of
exchangeable K is the clay. Various types of clay
binding K at different strengths, from weak
surface binding that do not hold K against
leaching (e.g. kaolinite clays), to a binding
that restricts plant availability (e.g. illitic
and smectite clays).
Most soils contain a mixture of the different

clay minerals; the proportion in which they occur
dictate the way the soil will behave as far as K
is concerned. The larger the amount
of clay in a soil the higher will be its capacity

to adsorb K and the better this will be able to
replenish the K in the soil solution when this is
depleted. Organic and light sandy soils have low
capacity for binding K. If such soils should
contain more K than the plant can take up, the K
ions are easily washed out or leached beyond the
range of crop roots. Heavier soil has an
advantage in that the clay holds much K, and any
temporary excess over the plant’s immediate
requirement is not easily leached.
The organic matter in soil (humus) also has

exchangeable properties, somewhat similar to
those of clays. While in most temperate mineral
soils containing clay, the contribution of
organic matter to the pool of exchangeable K is
not very important, it is very important in sandy
soils and in soils where the clay minerals are
predominantly of the kaolinitic type, as in many
tropical soils.
K is in general less mobile and less prone to

leaching than anions in soil, such as chloride
and nitrate (NO3-), but more so than phosphate.
Chloride binds only weakly to soil particles, and
therefore follows water movement. Anions do not
leach alone, but always together with a counter-
ion (cation). Hence, chloride and nitrate
leaching may deplete soils of nutrients such as
K. Leaching can be minimized by keeping the land
covered by crops.

01-MAR-2001 (37)(49)
3.3.2 Distribution
Media: air, water, soil and sediment

Method: Fugacity Level I.
Generic Model of OECD (FUGMOD, 1992).
Result: Environmental distribution of potassium chloride
using a Generic Level I Fugacity Model under three
emission scenarios showed the same result
Date: 30-MAR-2003
irrespective if the substance is released 100 % to
water or 100 % air or 100 % to soil:
> 99.7 % will be distributed to water, < 0.03 % to
air, < 0.03 % to soil solids, < 0.01 % to sediment
solids.
Remark: The Global Reference model of OECD Existing
Chemicals Programme was used for calculation.
01-MAR-2001 (56)
3.5 Biodegradation
Remark: KCl as an inorganic salt is not subjected to

further biodegradation processes.
01-MAR-2001
3.7 Bioaccumulation
Species: other: calculated

BCF: = 0.47
Method: other: calculated based on using water solubility
Test substance: no data
01-MAR-2001 (47)
Species: other: calculated

BCF: = 0.26
Method: other: calculated based on using logPow
01-MAR-2001 (48)
Date: 30-MAR-2003
4. Ecotoxicity Substance ID: 7447-40-7
AQUATIC ORGANISMS
4.1 Acute/Prolonged Toxicity to Fish
Type of test: static

Species: Pimephales promelas (Fathead minnows)
Exposure period: 24, 48, 96 hours
Unit: mg/l Analytical monitoring: yes
LC50/24 hours: = 950
LC50/48 hours: = 910
LC50/96 hours: = 880
Method: other: EPA/600/4-90/027
Year: 1997 GLP: no
Test substance: as prescribed by 1.1-1.4; reagent grade
Remarks: All organisms, 1 to 7 days old, were obtained from
in-house cultures. Brood stock were cultured at
20-25 degrees C in tap water pretreated with
activated carbon. Larva were fed Artemia sp. twice
daily until they were used in testing.
The toxicity tests followed the general guidance

of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. All
tests were conducted in 30-ml plastic beakers
containing 10 ml test solution and five organisms
per chamber. Tests were conducted under a 16-h:8-h
light-dark photoperiod at 25 degrees C.
Dilution/control water for all tests was
moderately hard reconstituted water (MHRW).
Exposure period was 96 hours, with daily
observations of mortality. The criteria for death
were no visible movement and no response to
prodding. 100 µl of concentrated brine shrimp
nauplii was added after 48 hours of exposure.
Test solutions were prepared by dissolving 10,000

mg/l KCl salt in MHRW, and diluting with MHRW to a
series of 5 test concentrations spaced on 0.5
dilution factor. As testing proceeded, test
concentrations were spaced much more closely to
better define responses near the effect threshold.
All ion concentrations measured in stock solutions

were compared to nominal values. If measured
concentration differed from the nominal value by
more than 20 %, the actual measured concentrations
were substituted for the nominal concentrations.
Background KCl content in the dilution water MHRW
were added to the calculated contributions from
the stock solutions.
Dissolved oxygen (DO) and pH were measured in

selected test solutions during actual toxicity
testing: Measured DO concentrations were always >
40 % saturation; measured pH was between 7.5 -9.0.
3 replicate tests were conducted, and average LC50

values were calculated as the arithmetic mean of
the values; SD = 15, range 1.4-62.
OECD SIDS POTASSIUM CHLOR
Date: 30-MAR-2003

04-MAR-2001 (54)

Species: Lepomis macrochirus (Bluegill)
Exposure period: 96 hours
LC50: = 2010
Method: other: acute toxicity
Year: 1968 GLP: no data
Test substance: as prescribed by 1.1-1.4; A.C.S.-grade chemicals
Remarks: Bluegills were exposed to a graded series of KCl
and synthetic soft dilution water and controls.
Eighteen series of bioassays were done. Fish tests
were made in 18 litres of solution at 18 degrees C.
Dissolved oxygen concentrations were maintained
between 5 and 9 ppm. No food was given during the
test period or during the 36 hours before the tests
began. Fish were acclimatized to the dilution water
and other test conditions for 2 weeks before being
used as experimental organisms. The nominal
concentrations of KCl were not measured.
04-MAR-2001 (58)

LC50: = 2010
Test substance: as prescribed by 1.1-1.4
Remarks: Groups of ten Bluegills were exposed to analyzed
treatment levels of 1661, 1911, 2054 and 2200 mg/l
active ingredient and synthetic soft dilution water
controls.
04-MAR-2001 (70)

Species: Oncorhynchus mykiss (rainbow trout)
LC50: = 1610
Test substance: as prescribed by 1.1-1.4; 99 % active ingredient
Remarks: Fish (0.8-1.2 g) were obtained form the National
Fisheries Research Centre and maintained in 5000 l
fiberglass tanks supplied with flowing well water
and fed as libitum daily. Fish were taken off feed
4 days before tests.
Date: 30-MAR-2003
Static tests were conducted following procedures

of the Committee on Methods for Acute Toxicity
Testing with Aquatic Organisms (1975). Test water
was reconstituted soft water of pH 7.7, alkalinity
6x10 -4 m/L (30 mg/l as CaCO 3), and total hardness
40 mg/l as CaCO3. Tests were conducted at 17
degrees C. Dissolved oxygen, pH and temperature
were measured daily. Treatment of 10 animals per
vessel were duplicated.
Date: 04-MAR-2001

Species: Ictalurus punctatus (channel catfish)
LC50: = 720
Remarks: Fish (0.8-1.2 g) were obtained from the National
Fisheries Research Centre and maintained in 5000 l
fiberglass tanks supplied with flowing well water
and fed as libitum daily. Fish were taken off feed
4 days before tests. Static tests were conducted
following procedures of the Committee on Methods
for Acute Toxicity Testing with Aquatic Organisms
(1975). Test water was reconstituted soft water of
pH 7.7, alkalinity 6x10-4 m/L (30 mg/l as CaCO3),
and total hardness 40 mg/l as CaCO 3. Tests were
conducted at 17 oC. Dissolved oxygen, pH and
temperature were measured daily. Oxygen saturation
was above 60 % in all tested vessels throughout
the test. Two vessels each with 10 animals were
tested at each concentration.
04-MAR-2001 (76)

Species: Gambusia affinis (mosquitofish)
Exposure period: 24, 48, 96 hours
LC50/24 hours: = 10000
LC50/48 hours: = 4200
LC50/96 hours: = 920
Remarks: Groups of ten fish were exposed to analyzed
treatment levels of 560, 1000, 1800, 3200, 5600,
10000 and 18000 mg/l active ingredient. Water used
for experimental dilutions and controls was turbid
pond water. Initial turbidity was 250 ppm.
Reliability: (3) not reliable
Date: 30-MAR-2003
04-MAR-2001 (77)

Unit: mg/l Analytical monitoring: no data
LC50: = 5500
Remarks: Water used for experimental dilutions and controls
was Standard Reference Water free from organics.
02-MAR-2001 (25)

Species: Leuciscus idus
LC0: = 2000
LC50: = 2300
LC100: = 2600
Method: other: DIN 38412 part 31
Reliability: (4) not assignable
Original reference could not be checked
Flag: Material Safety Dataset
02-MAR-2001 (22)
4.2 Acute Toxicity to Aquatic Invertebrates

Species: Daphnia magna
Exposure period: 24, 48 hours
LC50/24 hours: = 740
LC50/48 hours: = 660
Year: 1997 GLP: no
Remarks: All organisms were obtained from in-house
cultures. D. magna were cultured in hard
reconstituted water at 20 degrees C. Test
organisms were less than 24 hours old at test
initiation.
Dilution/control water for all tests was
moderately hard reconstituted water (MHRW).
Date: 30-MAR-2003

observations of mortality. 100 µl of a 1:1 mix of
YCT and algal suspension was added to the test
chambers at test initiation. The criteria for
death were no visible movement and no response to
prodding.
5 replicate tests were conducted, and average LC50
values were calculated as the arithmetic mean of
the values; SD = 7.5,
range 4.8-31.

04-MAR-2001 (54)

Species: Ceriodaphnia dubia
Exposure period: 24, 48 hours
LC50/24 hours: = 630
LC50/48 hours: = 630
Year: 1997 GLP: no
Remarks: All organisms were obtained from in-house
cultures. C. dubia were cultured in either
moderately hard reconstituted water (MHRW) or 20 %
mineral water at 25 degrees C. Test organisms were
less than 24 hours old at test initiation.

Dilution/control water for all tests was MHRW.
observations of mortality. 100 µl of a 1:1 mix of
YCT and algal suspension was added to the test
Date: 30-MAR-2003
chambers at test initiation. The criteria for

death were no visible movement and no response to
prodding.



53 replicate tests were conducted, and average

LC50 values were calculated as the arithmetic mean
of the values; SD = 14, range 0.0-61.
04-MAR-2001 (54)
Type of test: no data

EC50: = 679
Remarks: Water used for experimental dilutions and controls
was Standard Reference Water.
02-MAR-2001 (25)

EC50: = 343
Remarks: Groups of ten daphnids were exposed to 9 treatment
levels. Maximum treatment level was 10,000 mg/l
active ingredient.
Date: 30-MAR-2003
All tests were conducted at 23 +/- 1 degree C.

Water used for experimental dilutions and controls
was Standard Reference Water. Observations were
made at 12 hour intervals.
02-MAR-2001 (24)

EC0: = 587
EC100: = 1010
02-MAR-2001 (22)

EC0: = 587
EC50: = 825
EC100: = 1010
02-MAR-2001 (22)

EC50: = 177 (calculated from 93 mg/l as potassium )
Method: other:
Test substance: KCL reagent grade according to AMCS
Reliability: (2)published article, reliable with restrictions
Remark: Potassium was added in a geometric series of
concentrations, from 5 to 12 concentration levels were used.
Test medium was natural Lake Superior water. The test was run
with and without food addition. Two parallel beakers were used
at each concentration. There was 10 daphnids less than 24h old
in each beaker at the start of the test. Test temperature was
18 ± 1 oC. A 16 h photoperiod was used during testing. Only
the result of test without food is referred.
Date: 30-MAR-2003

6-Des-2001 (11)

Species: Physa heterostropha (fresh water snail)
LC50 = 940
Method: other
Test substance: as prescribed by 1.1-1.4, purity: A.C.S.-grade
chemicals
Remarks: Snails were exposed to a graded series of KCl and
synthetic dilution water and controls. Eighteen
series of bioassays were done. Tests were made in 1
litre of solution at 20 degrees C. Dissolved oxygen
concentrations were maintained between 5 and 9 ppm.
No food was given during the test period or during
the 36 hours before the tests began. Snails were
acclimatized to the dilution water and other test
conditions for 2 weeks before being used as
experimental organisms. The nominal concentrations
of KCl were not measured.
02-MAR-2001 (58)

Species: Dreissena polymorpha (zebra mussel)
LC50: = 150 (20-25 mm ad.)
LC50: = 147 (5-8 mm ad.)
Remarks: Mussels (20-25 mm and 5-8 mm) were obtained from
Lake Eire, Ohio, and maintained in 2000 l aquaria
containing dechlorinated municipal water. Before
exposures, two size classes of adult mussels from
the stock culture were placed in glass petri
dishes and allowed to attach. The mussels were
exposed in 3.8 l glass jars containing 2.5 l test
water without aeration. Test water was
reconstituted soft water of pH 7.7, alkalinity
6x10 -4 m/L (30 mg/l as CaCO 3), and total hardness
40 mg/l as CaCO3. Tests were conducted at 17
degrees C. Dissolved oxygen, pH and temperature
were measured daily. Treatment of 10 animals per
vessel were triplicated.
04-MAR-2001 (76)

Species: Dreissena polymorpha (zebra mussel)
Date: 30-MAR-2003

LC50: = 138
Remarks: Mussels (15-20 mm) were obtained from Lake Eire,
Ohio. Before exposures, two size classes of adult
mussels from the stock culture were placed in
glass petri dishes and allowed to attach. The
mussels were exposed to 5 concentrations and 3
replicates of each concentration.
04-MAR-2001 (33)

Species: Nitocra spinipes (Crustacea)
LC50 = 854
Method: not stated
Test substance: as prescribed by 1.1-1.4, purity: reagent grade
Remarks: Groups of ten crustaceans were exposed to ten
analyzed treatment levels of the active ingredient.
Water used for experimental dilutions and controls
was brackish water (filtered and heated to 80°C)
(salinity 0.007 %). The 96 hour LC50 was determined
to be 854 mg/l with a 95 % confidence level of 562-
1298 mg/l.
02-MAR-2001 (8)
Species: Austropotamobius pallipes pallipes (Crustacea)

LC50 = 740
Method: not stated
02-MAR-2001 (12)
Species: Orconectus limosus (Crustacea)

LC50 = 1214
Method: not stated
02-MAR-2001 (12)
Date: 30-MAR-2003
4.3 Toxicity to Aquatic Plants e.g. Algae
Species: Nitzschia linearis (diatom)

Endpoint: growth rate
EC50 = 1337
Method: other
Test substance: as prescribed by 1.1-1.4, purity: A.C.S.-grade
chemicals
Remarks: Diatoms were cultured in synthetic dilution water
under controlled conditions. Tests were made by
putting standard inoculum of cells in each of the
150 ml Erlenmeyer flasks, and comparing the number
of cells produced at the end of a 5-day period. A
graded series of test concentrations were used.
02-MAR-2001 (58)
Species: Skeletonema costatum

Endpoint: biomass
EC10: 850
EC20: 1250
EC50: 2500
Test substance: not stated
Remark: German standard methods for the examination of
water, waste water and sludge, bio -assays (group
L); determination of the non-poisonous effect of
waste water to green algae (Scenedesmus chlrophyll
fluorescnece test) by dilution limits (L 33).
02-MAR-2001 (22)
4.4 Toxicity to Microorganisms e.g. Bacteria
4.5 Chronic Toxicity to Aquatic Organisms
4.5.1 Chronic Toxicity to Fish
4.5.2 Chronic Toxicity to Aquatic Invertebrates
Species: Austropotamobius pallipes pallipes (Crustacea)

Exposure period: 30 days
LC50 = 398 - 531
Method: not stated
Date: 30-MAR-2003

Remark: Lower LC50 - animals were not fed during the
exposure period; higher LC50 – animals were fed
during exposure period.
03-MAR-2001 (12)
Species: Orconectus limosus (Crustacea)

LC50 = 626 - 854
Method: not stated
Remark: Lower LC50 - animals were not fed during the
exposure period; higher LC50 – animals were fed
during exposure period.
03-MAR-2001 (12)
Type: semi-static
Endpoint: reproductive impairment
Unit: mg potassium /l Analytical monitoring: yes
Results: 16 % reproductive impairment = 101 (calculated from
53 mg/l as potassium
50 % reproductive impairment = 130 (calculated from
68 mg/l as potassium)
Method: other: not stated
Year: 1972 GLP: no
Remark: Potassium was added a geometric series of
concentrations for obtaining approximation of
toxicity. After determination of test
concentration, 8 groups of animals were tested at
the mean nominal concentrations 54,8 and 102.8 mg
potassium /l added to Lake Superior water with 1.2
mg chloride /l. Test concentrations were renewed
each week. Test temperature was 18 ±1 oC and
photoperiod 18 hours. Reproduction was assessed
each week by counting juveniles produced. Three to
seven tests were performed and the results of all
tests were pooled and statistically analysed.
Reliability: (2) reliable with restriction
03-MAR-2001 (11)
Date: 30-MAR-2003
TERRESTRIAL ORGANISMS
4.6.1 Toxicity to Soil Dwelling Organisms
4.6.2 Toxicity to Terrestrial Plants
Type: As potassium is one of the three major nutrients

and chloride is an essential micronutrient for
plants, the demands for these nutrients in
plants/crops are reported. Background
concentrations of K and Cl in plants are reported
under item 3.2.; information about the essential
functions of potassium and chloride in plants is
reported under item 4.7; biotransformation and
kinetics in plants is reported under item 4.8.
Remark: Crops have a high K demand, and uptake of K in
plants ranges from about 50 to 300 kg K ha -1 per
crop, broadly similar to the uptake of nitrogen
(N). The potassium requirement for optimal plant
growth is in the range 2-5 % of the plant dry
weight of vegetative parts. The distribution of K
within the plant differs from that of N; for most
crops, the produce contains less K than the crop
residues, whereas for cereals more than 70 % is
contained in the straw. A rice crop of 8 t ha-1
removes 250 kg K ha-1 if straw is removed, and 24
kg K ha- if straw remains in the field. Similar
amounts are found for other cereals. For a 40 t
ha -1 sugarbeet crop, the numbers are 250 and 110
kg K ha-, respectively, if crop residues are
removed or left in the field.
Crop utilization of K depends not only on the

availability of K in soil, but also in that of
other nutrients; excessive amounts of NH 4+ or Mg
hamper K uptake, and excessive K can reduce the
uptake of Ca and Mg.
The appearance of visual symptoms due to K

deficiency, generally resulting in yellowing and
than death of the marginal leaf tissue, signals a
very severe deficiency. Growth is restricted with
resultant loss of crop yield long before symptoms
become obvious. Earlier and less obvious symptoms
of K deficiency are a general decrease in vigour
and turgor. A further general effect is weakening
of the structural tissues, with consequent
susceptibility to lodging. Inadequate supply of
potassium makes plants more susceptible to frost
damage, and to fungal attack.
In most plant species the Cl requirement for

optimal growth is in the range of 0.2-0.4 mg/g
dry matter.
Excessive Cl is detrimental to chloride-sensitive

crops (e.g. most fruit trees, bean and cotton),
or if it is necessary to guard against excessive
salinity (e.g. in intensive cropping under glass,
Date: 30-MAR-2003
intensive fertilizer use on vegetables), and in

arid areas. In hot, dry areas a high rate of
evaporation from the surface causes soil water to
move upwards and with it the salts it contains
which may reach toxic levels to plants when
accumulated in the surface layers of the soil. On
average, concentrations of chloride in the
external solution of more than 20 mM can lead to
toxicity in sensitive plant species, whereas in
tolerant species (e.g. barley, spinach, lettuce
and sugar beet), the external concentration can
be four to five times higher without reducing
growth.
The principal effect of Cl deficiency in plants

is a reduction in leaf surface area and thereby
plants dry weight. With severe deficiency,
necrosis might occur. In leaves and roots,
besides cell division, cell extension is
particularly impaired. Cl deficiency may occur in
highly leached soils with a low Cl input from
rain in areas far distant from oceans.
01-MAR-2001 (37)(49)
4.6.3 Toxicity to other Non-Mamm. Terrestrial Species
Type: LDL0
Species/strain: frog
Route of
Administration: s.c.
Exposure time:
Value: 2120 mg/kg body weight
Flag: without flag
01-MAR-2001 (2)
Type: LDL0
Species/strain: pigeon
Route of
Exposure time:
Flag: without flag
01-MAR-2001 (2)
Date: 30-MAR-2003
4.7 Biological Effects Monitoring
Type: Animals
Remark: Potassium and chloride are essential constituents
and two of the most abundant ions in all animal
species. The biological effects of action of these
ions are well reviewed :
K+ is the principal cation mediating the osmotic
balance of the body fluids. In animals, the
maintenance of normal cell volume and pressure
depends on Na+ and K+ pumping. Metabolic energy is
expended in maintaining the gradient. In the
absence of such pumping, chloride and sodium
would enter the cells down their concentration
gradients, and water would follow along the
osmotic gradient thus created, causing the cells
to swell until the pressure inside them balance
the influx. Because sodium and potassium are
actively transported, the osmolality of the cells
remains the same as that of the interstitial
fluid. The membrane potential is maintained, and
the chloride concentration inside the cells
remains low.
The K+/Na + separation has allowed for evolution of

reversible transmembrane electrical potentials
essential for nerve and muscle action in animals.
Potassium transport through the hydrofobic

interior of a membrane can be facilitated by a
number of natural compounds that form lipid-
soluble alkali metal cation complexes. Potassium
serves the critical role as counterion for various
carboxylates, phosphates and sulphates, and
stabilizes macromolecular structures.
01-MAR-2001 (35)(61)
Type: Plants
Remark: Biological effects of potassium as one of the
three major plant nutrients, and chloride as an
essential micronutrient for plants, is well
reviewed :
An adequate K supply is necessary to ensure crop
resistance to lodging, disease and drought. K is
an important quality agent both through a direct
effect on crops and because it strengthens
resistance to diseases, and sufficient K is
important for vitamin and mineral content, for
texture, firmness and resistance to damage during
transport.
Potassium in plants is important for the osmotic

and ionic regulation, and for a large number of
enzymes related to carbohydrate and protein
metabolism. In almost all cases, cytosolic
potassium concentrations are maintained in the
range 100-200 mM. Due to its high concentration
Date: 30-MAR-2003
in the cytosol and chloroplasts it neutralizes

the soluble and insoluble inorganic anions and
stabilizes the pH between 7 and 8 in these
compartments, the optimum for most enzyme
reactions.
Potassium activates the membrane-bound proton

pumping ATPases. This activation facilitate the
transport of K from the external solution across
the plasma membrane into the root cells, and make
potassium the most important mineral element in
cell extension and osmoregulation. A high osmotic
pressure in the stele of roots is prerequisite
for turgor-pressure-driven solute transport in
the xylem and for the water balance of plants. In
principle the same mechanism is responsible for
cell extension and various types of movement at
the level of individual cells or in certain
tissues.
Potassium, as the most prominent inorganic

solute, plays a key role in the control of water
in plants. When K is deficient, the stomata can
not function properly and water loss from the
plant may reach damaging levels. In addition to
the effect of the opening and closing of stomata
on conserving water within the plant, the plant's
potassium status also affects the ease with which
it can extract water from the soil.
In higher plants, potassium affects

photosynthesis at various levels, playing a key
role in CO 2 fixation. Potassium nutritional status
also affect photosynthesis in leaves via its
stomatal regulation. Inefficient operation of the
stomata means that the supplies of the raw
materials essential for the formation of sugars
are restricted and photosynthesis declines. The
soluble products of photosynthesis are moved from
the leaves in the phloem and this transport is
speeded up in the presence of adequate potassium.
Potassium is closely connected with processes

involved in the protein synthesis in plants. When
nitrate is taken up from the soil, the negative
charge on this ion is neutralized by the positive
charge on the K ion and the N is then taken up in
the transpiration stream to the leaves where it
is manufactured into protein. At the top the K
ion combines with organic acids and, in this
form, flows down to the root again to take part
in the next cycle. The role of K in protein
synthesis is not only reflected in the
accumulation of soluble nitrogen compounds (e.g.
amino acids, amides, and nitrate), but is also
directly required for incorporation of inorganic
nitrogen into the protein fraction. It is
probable that potassium is involved in several
steps of the translation process. Because K is
concerned in nitrogen metabolism in the plant, a
consequence of low K supply to plants receiving
Date: 30-MAR-2003
large amounts of N fertilizer is that

intermediate products of protein synthesis
accumulate. Increasing the K supply improves the
conversion of these low molecular weight N
compounds into protein.
Cl is essential for the photosynthetic O 2 evolution

and the membrane-bound proton-pumping ATPases. Cl
also plays an essential role in stomatal
regulations trough mediating the opening and
closure of the stomata.
Chloride has important functions in osmoregulation

at different levels. At the usually high plant
content it is a main osmoticum in the vacuoles of
the bulk tissue (50-150 mM chloride). At low
contents which are in the range of a micronutrient
(approx. 1 mM chloride or below), these
osmoregulatory functions of chloride are confined
to specialized tissues or cells (e.g. extension
zones of roots and shoots).
01-MAR-2001 (37)(49)
4.8 Biotransformation and Kinetics
Type: Plants
Remark: Biotransformation and kinetics of potassium as
one of the three major plant nutrients, and
chloride as an essential micronutrient for
plants, is well reviewed:
Uptake of K in plants is highly selective and
closely coupled to metabolic activity. It is
characterized by high mobility in plants at all
levels, within individual cells, within tissues,
and in long-distance transport via the xylem and
phloem. K is the most abundant cation in the
cytoplasm and its accompanying anions make a
major contribution to the osmotic potential of
cells. K is not metabolized and it forms only
weak complexes in which it is readily
exchangeable.
Chloride is readily taken up by plants and its
mobility in short- and long-distance transport is
high. In plants, chloride occurs mainly as free
anion or is loosely bound to exchange sites. In
higher plants, more than 130 chlorinated organic
compounds have been found. However, the importance
of these compounds in terms of functional
requirement of Cl for higher plants is not known.
01-MAR-2001 (37)(49)
Date: 30-MAR-2003
Type: Effects of potassium and chloride on plant diseases

Remark: Generally, potassium tends to improve the plant’s
resistance towards several diseases, and the
potassium effect appears to be related to soil K
status. An adequate K supply is of notable
importance for plants to make protective
chemicals and barriers that restrict the progress
of an infection and compensate for any damage
through new growth. Application of K is shown to
reduce the damage from bacterial leaf blight,
sheat blight and stem rot in rice; black rust in
wheat; sugary disease in sorghum; and bacterial
leaf blight in cotton. The ability to resist
bacterial and fungal diseases often depends on
the N:K ratio.
Chloride may hinder the plant disease take-all in

wheat due to its apparent action as a
nitrification inhibitor: Cl forces the plant to
take up more N as NH 4+ with exchange of hydrogen
ions; this makes the soil at the root surface
more acidic, and some microbes that thrive under
acidic conditions inhibit the development of
take-all. Chloride also decreases the NO 3-
concentration in plants. Reduced NO3- may result
in fewer attacks of common root rot on barley.
01-MAR-2001 (37)(60)
Remark: Biological effects, and biotransformation and

kinetics of potassium and chloride in humans is
reported under item 5.10.
01-MAR-2001
Date: 30-MAR-2003
5. Toxicity Substance ID: 7447-40-7
5.1 Acute Toxicity
5.1.1 Acute Oral Toxicity
Type: LD50
Species: rat
Strain: Wistar
Sex: female
Number of
Animals: 109
Vehicle: other: none
Method: other; acute toxicity
Test substance: as prescribed by 1.1-1.4, purity: not stated
Remark: The animals weighed 200-300 g and were fed ad
libitum. They were placed in metabolism cages, one
animal per cage, and given water for 16 hours
before administration. KCl was given by stomach
tube in doses of 2.1, 2.4, 2.7, 3.3, 3.6 and 3.9
g/kg body weight. Each dose was dissolved in
distilled water and given in a volume of 20 ml/kg
body weight.
Clinical signs were recorded at hourly or other

intervals.
Body weight, food and water intake, urine volume
and urinanalysis, and colonic temperature were
recorded upon survivors at intervals of 24 hours
after drug administration. Autopsies were performed
upon nonsurvivors. Clinical and pathological
parameters were also recorded on 13 survivors and
controls over a period of two weeks following the
treatment period.
The acute oral LD50 +/- SE was determined to be

3020 +/- 0.14 mg/kg body weight. The mean +/- SD
interval to death was 2.2 +/- 3.2 hours. Clinical
signs of intoxication in animals that died included
convulsions followed by exhaustion and respiratory
failure. Autopsy revealed signs of irritant gastro-
enteritis, and necrosis appeared in the renal
tubular epithelium. The heart was dilated with
blood at death, and the lung alveoli were
frequently collapsed. Compared to control animals
the organ weight changes in nonsurvivors were;
pyloric stomach – 19.0 % change compared to
controls, kidney – 16.8 % change compared to
controls, lungs – 14.7 % change compared to
controls, jejunum – 14 % change compared to
controls, ileum - 14 % change compared to controls,
colon –9.5 % change from controls, and hearth +
11.3 % change from controls. Survivors recovered
quickly from the toxic effects of KCl.
Animals surviving the LD50 dose had convulsive

movements, diarrhoea or constipation, loss of
appetite, increased thirst and urine excretion and
fever. Measurements of clinical signs were within
Date: 30-MAR-2003
the normal range within 2-3 days. Organ weights and

water levels returned to normal limits in survivors
at two weeks after administration of KCl. KCl had
no effect on the amount of urinary acetone,
albumin, occult blood, bilirubin or glucose.
28-FEB-2001 (14)
Type: LDL0
Species: rat
Strain: Wistar
Sex: not stated
Number of
Animals: 12
Test substance: as prescribed by 1.1-1.4, purity: chemical grade
Remarks: A M/2 solution of KCl was administrated to the
animals. Clinical signs of acute poisoning in
animals included increased respiration and heart
action, and occasionally asphyxial convulsions.
Sub-acute poisoning produced convulsions. The
animals showed wide variation in the effects
produced by KCl, and survival from an average
lethal dose took place.
28-FEB-2001 (71)
Type: LDL0
Species: guinea pigs
Strain:
Sex: not stated
Number of
Animals: 14
Remarks: A M/2 solution of KCl was administrated to the
animals. Clinical signs of acute poisoning in
animals included increased respiration and heart
action, and occasionally asphyxial convulsions.
Sub-acute poisoning produced convulsions. The
animals showed wide variation in the effects
produced by KCl, and survival from an average
lethal dose took place.
28-FEB-2001 (71)
Type: LDL0
Species: sheep
Date: 30-MAR-2003
Strain:
Sex: not stated
Number of
Animals: 6
Remarks: KCl was administered orally to six sheep
maintained on a normal ration, in single doses of
2, 3, and 4 g/kg body weight, and observed for
toxic signs. The Minimum Lethal Dose (MLD) in
nonfasted animals was 4 g/kg body weight. Two
sheep receiving this dose has a time to death of
40 to 85 minutes. Salivation, vomiting, heart
throbbing, accelerated breathing, mydriasis,
staggering walk, spasms, and finally coma preceded
death. Sublethal doses of KCl caused depression,
refusion to eat, polyuria, increased respiration
rate, and rapid pulse for a period of 4 to 6
hours, but the animals recovered without any
further signs of toxicity.
28-FEB-2001 (69)
Type: LDL0
Species: goat
Strain:
Sex: not stated
Number of
Animals: not stated
Remarks: Acute oral toxicity of KCl was studied for
goats on salt-poor diet (no added NaCl for 1.5
months) as compared with animals on a normal
ration. A single oral dose of 4 g/kg body weight
caused death within 35 to 85 minutes in the salt-
deficient animals, whereas those on a normal feed
ration survived. Clinical signs of toxicity in
animals given lethal doses: Vomiting, polyuria,
tetanic spasms of muscles of extremities,
accelerated respiration and pulse. At autopsy, the
kidneys were swollen, the heart muscle was flabby,
and the rumen, reticulum, abomasum and duodenum
mucosae were hyperemic.
28-FEB-2001 (69)
Type: LD50
Species: rat
Exposure time:
Value: 2600 mg/kg
Date: 30-MAR-2003

Original reference could not be checked.
Flag: without flag
28-FEB-2001 (3)
5.1.2 Acute Inhalation Toxicity
Remark: No studies located.

01-MAR-2001
5.1.3 Acute Dermal Toxicity
Remark: Not relevant; potassium chloride is not likely to

be absorbed through the skin because of the low
octanol-water partition coefficient of the
substance.
01-MAR-2001
5.1.4 Acute Toxicity, other Routes
Type: LD50
Species/strain: rat / Food and Drug strain, Wistar stock
Route of
Administration: i.p.
Exposure time: 24 hours
Value: 660 mg/kg
Test substance: as prescribed by 1.1-1.4, purity: not stated.
Remarks: KCl was administrated as a single dose by the
intraperitoneal route to groups of 10 rats.
01-MAR-2001 (82)
Type: LD50
Species/strain: rat
Route of
Administration: i.v.
Exposure time: 6 hr
Value: 142 mg/kg
Remarks: KCl was administrated as a single dose by the intravenous
route.
01-MAR-2001 (75)
Date: 30-MAR-2003
Type: LD50
Species/strain: mouse/Cobs Charles River
Route of
Administration: i.v.
Exposure time: 24 hr
Value: 117 mg/kg
Remarks: Groups of ten animals were injected 0.5 ml KCl
solution/20 g body weight.
01-MAR-2001 (9)
Type: LDL0
Species/strain: rat/Wistar
Route of
Exposure time:
Test substance: as prescribed by 1.1-1.4, purity: chemical grade.
Remarks: A M/2 solution of KCl was administrated to 12
animals by means of a catheter. Clinical signs of
acute poisoning in animals included increased
respiration and heart action, and occasionally
asphyxial convulsions. Sub-acute poisoning produced
convulsions. The animals showed wide variation in
the effects produced by KCl, and survival from an
average lethal dose took place.
01-MAR-2001 (71)
Type: LDL0
Species/strain: guinea pig
Route of
Exposure time:
Test substance: as prescribed by 1.1-1.4, purity: chemical grade.
Remarks: A M/2 solution of KCl was administrated to 14
animals by means of a hypodermic syringe. Clinical
signs of acute poisoning in animals included
increased respiration and heart action, and
occasionally asphyxial convulsions. Sub-acute
poisoning produced convulsions. The animals showed
wide variation in the effects produced by KCl, and
survival from an average lethal dose took place.
Date: 30-MAR-2003
01-MAR-2001 (71)
Type: LDL0
Route of
Administration: i.a., i.v., i.c.
Exposure time:
Value: intraarterial: 130 mg/kg
intravenous: 77 mg/kg
intracardial: 40 mg/kg
Remarks: Animals were injected 5 % KCl solution (maximum
volume 0.6 ccm).
01-MAR-2001 (28)
Type: LD50
Species/strain: mouse
Route of
Exposure time:
Value: 620 mg/kg
Flag: without flag
01-MAR-2001 (4)
Type: LDL0
Route of
Exposure time:
Flag: without flag
01-MAR-2001 (2)
5.2 Corrosiveness and Irritation
5.2.1 Skin Irritation
Species: humans
Result: A threshold concentration for irritancy of 60 %
was seen when KCl in aqueous solution was in
contact with the skin of volunteers. The threshold
concentration when applied to broken skin for the
same amount of time was 5 %. No grading of the
Date: 30-MAR-2003
skin irritating potential was measured in this

study.
Method: Chamber scarification test
Remark: A forearm test site was criss-crossed scarified by
drawing a needle over the skin with enough pressure
to cleave epidermis without bleeding. The test
agent was applied in an aluminium chamber sealed to
the skin once daily for 3 days.
28-FEB-2001 (34)
5.2.2 Eye Irritation
Species: rabbit
Result: Instillation of 500 mg KCl produced a mild
reaction in the rabbit eye at 24 hours.
Method: other: eye Irritation

Flag: without flag
28-FEB-2001 (3)
5.3 Sensitization
5.4 Repeated Dose Toxicity
Species: rat Sex: male

Strain: F344/Scl
Route of admin.: oral feed
Exposure period: 2 years
Frequency of
treatment: daily
Post. obs.
period: none
Doses: 0.25, 1 % and 4 % KCl; 0.11, 0.45 and 1.82 g/kg body
weight/day
Control Group: yes, concurrent no treatment
Results: NOAEL > 1.82 g/kg body weight/day. The only
treatment related effects seen in rats fed about
0.11-1.82 g/kg body weight/day were gastritis
(inflammation of the stomach linking), an irritant
effect. The percentages of gastritis were 18 % in
the 0.11 and 0.45 g/kg bw/day groups, and 30 % in
the 1.82 g/kg bw/day group, compared to 6 % in the
control group. At the end of the 2 year
experimental period, the survival rates were 64 %
in 0.25 % KCl, 58 % in 1 % KCl, 84 % in 4 % KCl,
and 48 % in control groups. Absolute and relative
organ weights were measured for the following
organs; brain, pituitary, thymus, heart, lung,
Date: 30-MAR-2003
liver, spleen, pancreas, kidney, adrenal gland,

testis, seminal vesicle and prostate. However, no
statistically significant changes were reported in
any organs at any dose levels.
Nephrotic lesion was predominant in all groups,
including controls. Pathological non-tumerous and
tumors lesions did not indicate any carcinogenic
effects of KCl.
Method: other: Repeated Dose Toxicity
Test substance: as prescribed by 1.1-1.4, purity: commercial grade
Remark: Groups of 50 rats (male) were exposed to KCl
administered through the food.
01-MAR-2001 (44)
Species: rat Sex: female

Strain: Wistar
Route of admin: oral feed
Frequency of
treatment: daily
Post. obs.
period: 1 month
Doses: 5.25 g/kg body weight per day administrated as 2.5
% aqueous solution of KCl
Result: Mean heart weight was significantly less (270±34
mg/100 g) and mean kidney weight was significantly
higher (845±112 mg/100 g) than that of control
animals (respectively 324±19 and 731±31 mg/100 g).
Histological studies of the adrenals indicated
hypertrophy in the glomerular zone. All changes

seen were reversible in the control animals.
Test substance: as prescribed by 1.1-1.4, purity: unknown
Remarks: 14 experimental animals and 6 control rats were
fed ad libitum on a diet (Purina laboratory chow)
and a 2.5 % aqueous solution of KCl as the sole
source of fluid. At the end of the exposure
period, 10 animals were terminated, the remaining
4 animals were supplied with tap water in place of
KCl for one further month. At termination of the
study, the heart and kidneys were weighed. The
adrenals and kidneys were prepared for
histological studies which included detection of
ascorbic acid, cholesterol and other lipids.
Flag: non-confidential
01-MAR-2001 (5)
Species: humans Sex: female

Exposure period: 4 week placebo controlled crossover study
Date: 30-MAR-2003
Frequency of
treatment: daily
Post. obs.
period: 1 month
Doses: 80 mmol KCl/day (approx. 85 mg/kg body weight/day)
Control group: yes, concurrent no treatment
Result: NOAEL > 85 mg/kg body weight.
No significant changes in blood pressure or heart
rate. Significant increases in potassium urinary
excretion (P<0.001) and plasma potassium level
(equivalent to 0.2 mmol/l; P<0.007).
Test substance: as prescribed by 1.1-1.4, purity: unknown
Remarks: 44 females aged 18-55 years were selected for the
study on the basis of lower prevailing potassium
intake. They were randomly allocated to one of two
groups who took either 80 mmol/day of KCl (Slow-K,
Ciba Geigy), or matching placebo for the first two
4-week treatment periods. The treatments were
reversed during the second 4-week period. Blood
pressure, heart rate, urinary volume, electrolytes
and creatinine, were measured weekly during a
screening period and the two 4-weeks treatment
periods.
01-MAR-2001 (6)
Species: humans Sex: female

Exposure period: 6 week placebo controlled crossover study
Frequency of
treatment: daily
Post. obs.
period: 1 month
Doses: 65 mmol KCl/day (approx. 69 mg/kg body weight/day)
Control group: yes, concurrent no treatment
Results: NOAEL > 69 mg/kg body weight/day
Significant reduction in systolic and diastolic
blood pressure, from 153±3.1/104±1.7 to
146±3.1/101±1.6. Significant increase in serum
potassium (from 51±3 to 112±8) and urine potassium
(from 3.88±0.10 to 4.36±0.11). Changes in blood
pressure did not correlate with changes in serum
or urine electrolytes. Analysis of the 95 %
confidence intervals in this and five other
studies suggests that KCl supplementation lower
blood pressure, but that the change is small and
within the confidence levels of all six trials.
Remarks: 32 hypertensive females aged 34-62 years were
selected for the study. They were randomly
allocated to one of two groups who took either 65
mmol/day of KCl, or matching placebo for a 6 weeks
treatment period. The treatments were reversed
Date: 30-MAR-2003
after the 6-week period. Blood pressure, and

urinary electrolytes (sodium and potassium) and
creatinine, were measured weekly during the
treatment period. Plasma sodium and potassium and
serum albumin, calcium and magnesium were measured
at 6 th week only.
01-MAR-2001 (50)
5.5 Genetic Toxicity 'in Vitro'
Type: Bacterial reverse mutation assay (Salmonella

preincubation assay)
System of
testing: S. typhimurium TA 100, TA 1535, TA 1537, TA 9
Concentration: 0, 100, 333, 1000, 3333, 10000 µg/plate
Cytotoxic Conc.:
Metabolic
activation: with and without
Result: negative
Method: other, Salmonella preincubation assay (NTP modified
standard plate incorporation assay)
Remark: Procedure: Pre-incubation. Activation system: S-9
fraction from the liver of Arochlor 254-induced
male SD rats with a NADPH-generating system.
No. replicates: 3 plates per dose level
01-MAR-2001 (53)
Type: bacterial colorimetric assay (SOS Chromotest)

System of
testing: E. coli PQ37
Concentration: 1 - 100 000 nM/ml
Metabolic
activation: without
Results: negative
Method: other, SOS Chromotest
Remarks: No. replicates: 3 plates per dose level.
01-MAR-2001 (57)
Type: mammalian cell gene mutation test

System of
testing: mouse lymphoma cell (L5178Y), TK +/- heterozygote
Concentration: 0-5000 µg/ml
Metabolic
Date: 30-MAR-2003
activation: With Aroclor 1254 induced Fisher rat liver S9

homogenate or with noninduced Fisher 344 rat liver
S9, without activation
Results: With metabolic activation (Aroclor 1254 induced):
positive at 5000 µg/ml. With metabolic activation
(noninduced): positive at 4000 and 5000 µg/ml.
Without metabolic activation: negative up to 5000
µg/ml, however, higher, concentrations up to 8000
µg/ml, appeared to be toxic and mutagenic.
Method: OECD 476
Remarks: Media: Fischer's liquid medium for leucemic
cells supplemented with 10 % horse serum. Positive
control was Ethyl methanesulfonate or 3-
methylcholantrene and was positive under all test
conditions. Negative control was 10 % water and
solvent for the test chemical, and was negative
under all test conditions. Treatment up to 5000
µg/ml was not toxic, and did not reduce the
relative total growth below 50-65 %.
Reliability: (1) reliable without restriction
01-MAR-2001 (55)
Type: mammalian cell gene mutation test

System of
testing: mouse lymphoma cell (L5178Y), TK +/- heterozygote
Concentration: 0-5000 µg/ml
Metabolic
activation: With Aroclor 1254 induced male Fisher 344 rats S9
liver homogenate. Without activation
Results: With metabolic activation: In the first trial the
relative total growth decreased with increased
concentrations up to 4000 µg/ml, and no
mutagenicity was reported. The second trial yielded
a positive mutagenic response with a twofold
increase at 4000 µg/ml and a 2.5 fold increase at
5000 µg/ml. The third trial yielded a
concentration-dependent increase in mutations of
about twofold at 3645 µg/ml, and thr eefold at 4050
µg/ml. Overall the test with S9 activation was
evaluated as positive.
Without metabolic activation: negative up to 5000
µg/ml in the first trial. In the second trial
mutations was increased 2.5 fold from 1049 to 3200
µg/ml, however, the increase was not dose-related.
In the third trial cytotoxicity with no
mutagenicity was reported. Overall the results
without S9 activation were evaluated as negative.
Method: OECD 476
Remarks: Media: Fischer's liquid medium for leucemic cells
supplemented with 10 % horse serum. Positive
control was Ethyl methanesulfonate or 3-
methylcholantrene and was positive under all test
conditions. Negative control was 10 % water and
Date: 30-MAR-2003
solvent for the test chemical, and was negative

under all test conditions.

Reliability: (1) reliable without restriction
01-MAR-2001 (52)
Type: chromosome aberration

System of
testing: Chinese Hamster Ovary cells (CHO)
Concentration: 0, 70, 80, 90 mM
Metabolic
activation: without
Results: Cytotoxicity conc: Without metabolic activation: 90
mM
without metabolic activation: positive
Method: other
Remarks: 50 cells were scored for each dose. The osmotic
pressure of the media was 300, 430, 445 and 465
mOsm/kg H2O for 0, 70, 80 and 90 mM KCl,
respectively. The survival in % was 100, 60, 45
and 25 for 0, 70, 80 and 90 mM KCl, respectively.
After 24 hours the % aberrant cells were 4, 10, 28
After 42 hours the % aberrant cells were 2, 6, 4
In the OECD guidelines the recommended limit
concentration is 10 mM, and in this chromosomal
aberration test positive results were reported
around 80 mM KCl.
01-MAR-2001 (16)
Type: mammalian cell gene mutation (V79 cells),

chromosome aberration tests (CHO cells), and
Unscheduled DNA synthesis (HeLa cells)
System of
testing: Chinese Hamster V79 cells (V79), Chinese hamster
Ovary cells (CHO), HeLa S3 cells (HeLa)
Concentration: 0-300 mM
Metabolic
activation: with S9 liver homogenate, and without
Results: Cytotoxicity conc:
With metabolic activation: 37.5 mM (V79), 150 mM
(CHO)
Without metabolic activation: 100 mM (V79), 75 mM
(CHO)
Genotoxic effects:
With metabolic activation: Genmutation; 3 to 7 fold
increase in the mutation frequency. The increase
was observed at toxic and nontoxic doses of KCl.
Chromosomal aberration; at 200 mM 6.9 % of the
cells had aberrations in the presence of slight
toxicity. Unscheduled DNA Synthesis; No increase in
Date: 30-MAR-2003
the incorporation of tritiated thymidine, rather a

reduction was observed.
Without metabolic activation: Genmutations;
Increases in gene mutations were observed in a very
narrow dose range, reaching three-fold the negative
control value at 75 mM KCl. Chromosomal
aberrations; Up to 100 mM no significant increase
in chromosomal aberrations compared to the control
values, and at 150 mM KCl, the treatment was very
toxic. Unscheduled DNA synthesis; No increase in
the incorporation of tritiated thymidine, rather a
reduction was observed.
Method: Other: Resembling OECD 473 (CHO), OECD 476 (V79)
and OECD 482 (HeLa)

99.5 %
Remarks: No. replicates: at least 2 replicates per
experiment.
01-MAR-2001 (66)
5.6 Genetic Toxicity 'in Vivo'
5.7 Carcinogenicity
Species: rat, male Sex: male

Strain: F344/Scl
Route of admin.: oral feed
Exposure period: 2 years
Frequency of
treatment: daily
Post. obs.
period: none
Doses: 0.25, 1 and 4 % KCl, and 2 % KCl + 2 % NaCl, (110,
450, 1820 mg/kg body weight/day) administrated
through the food
Result: negative
Method: other
Remark: Groups of 50 male rats were exposed to KCl
administered through the food. At the end of the 2
year experimental period, the survival rates were
64 % in 0.25 % KCl, 58 % in 1 % KCl, 84 % in 4 %
KCl, and 48 % in control groups.
Pathological non-tumerous and tumors lesions did
not indicate any carcinogenic effects of KCl.
Among non-tumerous lesions, nephrotic lesion was
predominant in all groups. In tumerous lesions,
testicular tumor (interstitial cell tumor)
developed with a high incident in all groups.
However, the incidence and type of tumor in
experimental and control groups were comparable to
Date: 30-MAR-2003
those of spontaneous tumors in F344/Scl rats. The

only treatment related effect was gastritis, 18 %
in the 0.25%and 1.0% KCl group, and 30% in the 4%
KCl group compared to 6% in the control group.
01-MAR-2001 (44)
5.8 Toxicity to Reproduction
Remarks: no studies located

Reliability: (2) valid with restrictions
01-MAR-2001
5.9 Developmental Toxicity/Teratogenicity
Type: Developmental toxicity study

Species: mice Sex: female
Strain: virgin adult albino CD-l outbred
Route of admin.: oral intubation
Exposure Period: ten days (day 6 to 15 of gestation)
Frequency of
treatment: single daily administration by oral intubation
Premating Exposure Period
male: none
female: none
Duration of test: sacrifice on the 17th day
Doses: 2.35, 10.9, 50.6, 235.0 mg/kg body weight
Control Group: yes
NOAEL Parental: > 235 mg/kg
NOAEL F1 Offspr.: > 235 mg/kg
Method: other
Test substance: as prescribed by 1.1-1.4, purity: not stated. Vehicle was
water.
Remark: Groups of 21-24 experimental animals were used.
Female mice were mated with young adult male mice,
and observation of vaginal sperm plug was considered
day 0 of gestation. Body weights were recorded on
days 0, 6, 11, 15 and 17 of gestation. The dams
were subjected to Caesarean section on gestation
day 17. Post exposure observation period: 2 days.
The urogenital tract of each dam was examined in
detail for anatomical normality.
The administration of up to 235 mg/kg body weight

of KCl to pregnant mice for 10 consecutive days had
no effect on nidation or on maternal or offspring
survival. The number of abnormalities seen in
either soft or skeletal tissues of the test group
did not differ from the controls.
Date: 30-MAR-2003
General parental/maternal toxicity:

No effects seen in survival, total number of corpora
lutea, implant sites, resorptions, soft tissue
observations (urogenital tract), or live offspring.
Toxicity to offspring:
No effects seen in survival, sex ratio, average
offspring weight, external congenital abnormalities,
soft tissue defects (cleft palate), or skeletal
defects (sternebrae, ribs, vertebrae, skull and
extremities).
No further information was included in the study
report.
01-MAR-2001 (31)
Type: Developmental toxicity study

Species: rat Sex: female
Strain: Virgin adult Wistar
Route of admin.: oral intubation
Exposure Period: ten days (day 6 to 15 of gestation)
Frequency of
treatment: single daily administration by oral intubation
Premating Exposure Period
male: none
female: none
Duration of test: sacrifice on the 20th day
Doses: 3.1, 14.4, 66.8, 310.0 mg/kg body weight
Control Group: yes
NOAEL Parental: > 310 mg/kg
NOAEL F1 Offspr.: > 310 mg/kg

Method: other
Test substance: as prescribed by 1.1-1.4, purity: not stated. Vehicle was
water.
Remark: Groups of 21-24 experimental animals were used.
Female rats were mated with young adult male rats,
and observation of vaginal plug was considered day 0
of gestation. Body weights were recorded on days 0,
6, 11, 15 and 20 of gestation. The dams were
subjected to Caesarean section on gestation day 20.
Post exposure observation period: 5 days. The
urogenital tract of each dam was examined in detail
for anatomical normality.
The administration of up to 310 mg/kg body weight of

KCl to pregnant rats for 10 consecutive days had no
clear discernible effects on nidation or on maternal
or offspring survival. The number of abnormalities
seen in either soft or skeletal tissues of the test
group did not differ from the controls.
General parental toxicity:

No effects seen in survival, total number of corpora
lutea, implant sites, resorptions, soft tissue
observations (urogenital tract), or live offspring.
Date: 30-MAR-2003
Toxicity to offspring:
No effects seen in survival, sex ratio, average
offspring weight, external congenital abnormalities,
soft tissue defects (cleft palate), or skeletal
defects (sternebrae, ribs, vertebrae, skull and
extremities).
No further information was included in the study
report.
01-MAR-2001 (31)
5.10 Other Relevant Information
Species: humans
Type: reported case on acute oral toxicity (LDL0)
Remarks: A 2 month-old 4.8 kg boy died 2 days after
accidentally being fed 1,500 mg KCl (approx. 938
mg/kg body weight/2 days).
01-MAR-2001 (80)
Species: humans
Type: reported case on acute oral toxicity (LDL0)
Remarks: A 46 year-old women died after ingesting 35 g KCl
in the form of slow-release KCl tablets.
01-MAR-2001 (64)
Type: Gastric irritating effects in humans.

Results: In a group of 25 volunteers receiving 80 mEq (about
90 mg/kg body weight), in either a liquid or micro-
encapsulated formulation, one case of flatulence
and two cases of mild stomach ache were the only
adverse effects reported.
Remarks: No gastro-intestinal examinations were carried out.
01-MAR-2001 (10)
Type: Gastric irritating effects in humans.

Results: KCl administrated orally to groups of 48 to 110
volunteers in doses ranging from about 31-124 mg/kg
body weight/day in either a wax or micro-encapsuled
formulation for 7 days produced irritant effects in
the stomach or small intestine.
Remarks: More severe effects, inflammatory lesions and
gastric ulcers were seen particularly in volunteers
receiving the wax formulations. 60 to 70 % of the
volunteers treated with the wax-matrix KCl
developed some type of gastric lesions. The lesions
were graded from 0 (no mucosal damage) to 5 (severe
Date: 30-MAR-2003
mucosal damage. The mean score for the control

group was 0.267, and for the group receiving wax-
matrix KCl 2.267.
01-MAR-2001 (42)(51)(59)(63)
Type: Biological effects

Remark: K determines in large part the osmolality of the
body fluids (see item 4.7). Potassium and chloride
is also important in the regulation of the acid-
base balance of the body. Potassium is the
principal base in tissues and blood cells, and Cl
maintains electrochemical neutrality by anion
exchange with bicarbonate (the chloride shift) in
the CO 2 transport in the blood red cells.
Both potassium and chloride are important in

transmission of nerve impulses to the muscle
fibers. Potassium is a choline esterase
antagonist and affects the contractility of the
muscle.
01-MAR-20 (30)(32)(35)(45)
Type: Biotransformation and kinetics

Remark: Potassium is readily and rapidly absorbed by
passive diffusion in the high-conductance
membrane of the upper intestine. There is some
secretion of potassium into the intestinal lumen.
In the ileum and the colon, chloride is actively
reabsorbed in exchange for bicarbonate. The
concentration of potassium in the ileum is about
20 meq per liter, and in the colon the
concentration is 40-50 meq per liter. About 90 %
of the ingested dose of potassium is absorbed.
Potassium is distributed to all tissues where it

is the principal intracellular cation. Cellular
uptake of potassium is regulated by insulin,
acid-base status, aldosterone, and adrenergic
activity.
The majority of ingested potassium is excreted in

the urine via glomelural filtration. Much of the
filtered potassium is removed from the tubular
fluids by active reabsorption. The distal tubules
are able to secrete as well as reabsorb potassium,
so they are able to produce a net secretion of
potassium to achieve homeostatis in the face of a
potassium load due to abnormally high levels of
ingested potassium.
About 15 % of the total amount of potassium

excreted is found in feces. Traces are excreted
in sweat and tears. Cl leaves the tubular lumen by
Date: 30-MAR-2003
secondary active transport of sodium, and also

passive diffusion.
Excretion and retention of potassium is regulated

by the main adrenal cortical hormones, although
the pituary also influences electrolyte balance
in the body. Adrenal mineralocorticoids such as
aldosterone increase tubular reabsorption of
sodium in association with secretion of potassium
and H+, and also reabsorption with chloride.
Chloride reabsorption is increased when
bicarbonate reabsorption is decreased, and vice
versa.
Normal homeostatic mechanisms controlling the

serum potassium levels allow a wide range of
dietary intake. The renal excretory mechanism is
designed for efficient removal of excess K,
rather for its conservation during deficiency.
Even with no intake of K, man loses a minimum of
585-1170 mg K per day. However, the distribution
of potassium between the intracellular and the
extracellular fluids can markedly affect the
serum potassium level without a change in total
body potassium.
In the parietal cells in the gastric mucosa, H +

and Cl - are transported actively across the apical
membrane into the lumen of the stomach. This
secretion of HCl is regulated by the hormone
gastrin in response to intragastric protein and
stomach distention.
01-MAR-2001 (30)(32)(35)(45)(65)(74)
Type: Therapeutic uses

Remark: Diarrhea, emsis, diuresis, starvation, prolonged
saline infusion, renal filaure, or dietary
deficiency, may lead to K deficiency. Hypokalemia
is characterized by muscle weakness, cardiac
arrythmia, paralysis, bone fragility, sterility,
adrenal hypertrophy, decreased growth rate, loss
of weight and death.
Potassium chloride is of value for the relief of

symptoms of hypokaliemic periodic paralysis, and
the symptoms of Meniere’s disease. Daily intake of
potassium decreases the risk of stroke-associated
mortality.
Usual therapeutic doses for oral solution-adults

are 1.5-3 g/day to prevent depletion, and 3-7.5
g/day for replacement. Doses given by intravenous
infusion (adults) is not to exceed a total dose
of 200-400 mEq/day, depending on plasma potassium
levels.
Date: 30-MAR-2003

01-MAR-2001 (15)(36)
5.11 Experience with Human Exposure
Type: Work place exposure – potash mining

Method: Eight companies from the potash and milling
industry located near Carlsbad/USA cooperated in
the investigation. Job classification was
assessed as to whether it involved surface or
underground activity, or both, and the men were
divided into two categories after excluding men
with less than one year experience in the potash
industry or with more than one year in both
surface and underground work (1058 men); 1) men
with one year or more of underground potash work,
and less than one year of surface potash work
between 1940-1967 (2743 men), and 2) men who had
one year or more of surface potash work, and less
than one year underground potash work between
1940-1967 (1143 men).
Comparison was made between the observed risk of

dying among the study cohort, with that expected
according to age, sex, race, calendar time, and
cause specific mortality rates for the general
population of the United States.
Results: The field studies conducted failed to disclose
any evidence of predisposition of underground
miners to any of the diseases evaluated,
including lung cancer. Secondly, the study
concluded there is no reason to believe that the
underground environment increases respiratory
diseases when pneumoconiosis producing dust or
radon decay products are absent or present in
only minute amounts.
Exposure to dust, i.e. sodium and potassium

salts, commonly encountered in the potash
industry did not influence mortality due to heart
disease or cerebrovascular accidents. A deficit
of death from cancers other than respiratory
among the surface workers could not be explained.
28-FEB-2001 (78)
Date: 30-MAR-2003
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OECD SIDS POTASSIUM CHLORIDE

SIDS Initial Assessment Report

Chemical Name: Potassium chloride

CAS No: 7447-40-7

Sponsor Country: Norway

National SIDS Contact Point in Sponsor Country: Marit Kopangen

TESTING: no testing (X)

Deadline for circulation: 14 September 2001

Date of Circulation: 14 September 2001

SIDS INITIAL ASSESSMENT PROFILE

CAS No. 7447-40-7

Chemical Name Potassium chloride

Structural Formula K-Cl

The chemical is currently of low priority for further work.

SUMMARY CONCLUSIONS OF THE SIAR

NATURE OF FURTHER WORK RECOMMENDED

FULL SIDS SUMMARY

ENVIRONMENTAL FATE AND

3.1.2 Stability in Water N.A.

Ictalurus Other LC50 (48 hr) = 720 mg/l

SIDS INITIAL ASSESSMENT REPORT

Name (OECD): Potassium chloride

CAS No.: 7447-40-7

Molecular Formula: Cl-K

Molecular Weight: 74.55

Melting Point: 772 °C [1] [2]

Boiling Point: 1407 °C [2]

Vapour pressure: 5.73 hPa at 906 °C [3]

Partition Coefficient: -0.46 at 20 °C [4]

Water solubility: 342 g/l water at 20 °C [5][6]

2 GENERAL INFORMATION ON EXPOSURE [7]

- wide dispersive use:

2.1 ENVIRONMENTAL FATE

Table 2-1. Background concentrations of potassium chloride.

Medium Concentration References

Agricultural soil productivity is dependent on establishing a balanced availability of potassium

2.2 HUMAN EXPOSURE

Worst-case estimate for exposure of workers to KCl dust by inhalation:

3 HUMAN HEALTH HAZARDS

3.1 EFFECTS ON HUMAN HEALTH

3.1.1 TOXICOKINETICS, METABOLISM, MECHANISMS OF ACTION [15-16]

Metabolism, biotransformation and kinetics:

3.1.2 ACUTE TOXICITY

Table 3-1. Acute toxicity studies with potassium chloride.

3.1.2.1 HUMAN DATA

3.1.3 REPEATED DOSE TOXICITY

3.1.3.1 HUMAN DATA

3.1.4 GENETIC TOXICIT Y [33-38]

Lymphoma cell mutation assays:

Ch romosome aberration tests:

3.1.5 CARCINOGENICITY [29]

3.1.8 OTHER INFORMATION

Gastric irritation: [41-45]

Therapeutic uses of KCl: [25]

3.2 INITIAL ASSESSMENT OF HUMAN HEALTH

No evidence of treatment-related carcinogenicity was observed in rats administered up to 1820 mg

A developmental study revealed no foetotoxic or teratogenic effects of KCl in doses up to 235

4 HAZARDS TO THE ENVIRONMENT

4.1 AQUATIC EFFECTS