Animal-feed water, iodide

Alkali AletalIodides. Potassium iodide [7681-11-0] KI, mol wt 166.02, mp 686°C, 76.45% I, forms colorless cubic crystals, which are soluble in water, ethanol, methanol, and acetone. KI is used in animal feeds, catalysts, photographic chemicals, for sanitation, and for radiation treatment of radiation poisoning resulting from nuclear accidents. Potassium iodide is prepared by reaction of potassium hydroxide and iodine, from HI and KHCO, or by electrolytic processes (107,108). The product is purified by crystallization from water (see also Feeds and feed additives Photography). 

Potassium iodide is added to animal feeds to ensure that domestic animals get the iodine they need in their daily diets. A mixture of iodine in aqueous potassium iodide called SSKI has long been used as a disinfectant. The active agent in this mixture is iodine, and the potassium iodide is added to increase the iodine s solubility in water. SSKI is used to purify small amounts of water, to clear up pimples, to prevent sinus infections, and to treat bladder, lung, and stomach infections. 

The monohydrate is stable up to 540°C, but it is very sensitive to reducing agents. It is slightly soluble in water, insoluble in alcohol, and more soluble in aqueous solutions of iodides. It is mainly used in animal and fowl feeds. 

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