potassium tellurate is a white, deliquescent powder with no odor. When heated to decomposition it emits toxic fumes of potassium oxide and tellurium. Inhalation can irritate the nose, throat, lungs and eyes. It is very soluble in water and can burn skin. Ingestion of potassium tellurate can cause dry mouth, garlic odor to breath, suppression of sweat and urine, nausea and vomiting.
This compound is used in scientific experiments and in medical tests, including the selective growth medium for clauberg (bacteria). The antibacterial properties of potassium tellurate are being investigated to develop new antibiotics that target resistant bacteria strains. Research is also underway to investigate the catalytic and electrochemical properties of this compound as well as new synthetic routes.
American Elements produces potassium tellurate in a variety of standard grades when applicable, including Mil Spec (military grade); ACS, Reagent and Technical Grade; Food, Agricultural and Pharmaceutical Grade; and USP and EP/BP (European Pharmacopoeia/British Pharmacopoeia) Grade. In addition to the standard grades, we can supply potassium tellurate in high purity and nanopowder forms for special applications. Analytical techniques, such as X-ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, can be used to characterize the chemical structure of potassium tellurate and the changes it undergoes during chemical reactions.
Potassium is an alkali metal that exists in nature in ionic salts, and is found mostly as a component of potash (potash). It has a silvery gray metallic appearance and is extremely reactive. It is the second most abundant element in the Earth’s crust and is more widely distributed than most other elements. It has a low boiling and melting point and is extremely soluble in water.