Potassium fluoride

Potassium fluoride is the chemical compound with the formula KF. After hydrogen fluoride, KF is the primary source of the fluoride ion for applications in manufacturing and in chemistry. It is an alkali metal halide and occurs naturally as the rare mineral carobbiite. Aqueous solutions of KF will etch glass due to the formation of soluble fluorosilicates, although HF is more effective.

Applications in organic chemistry
In organic chemistry, KF is the preferred source of fluoride for the conversion of chlorocarbons into fluorocarbons. Such reactions usually employ polar solvents such as dimethyl formamide, ethylene glycol, and dimethyl sulfoxide.

Safety considerations
Like other sources of the fluoride ion, F&minus;, KF is poisonous, although lethal doses approach gram levels for humans. It is harmful by inhalation and ingestion, highly corrosive and skin contact may cause severe burns.