Potash is a group of minerals and chemicals that contain potassium, which is a basic nutrient for plants and an important ingredient in fertilizer. Potash is primarily used in fertilizers (approximately 95%) to support plant growth, increase crop yield and disease resistance, and enhance water preservation. However, small quantities of potash are also used in manufacturing potassium-bearing chemicals such as detergents, ceramics, pharmaceuticals, and water treatment. Other uses of potash include:
- Food seasoning and brewing beer
- Treating hard water
- Deicing snow and ice
- Aluminum recycling, explosives, and pharmaceuticals
Potassium hydroxide, a type of potash, is used for industrial water treatment and is the precursor of potassium carbonate, several forms of potassium phosphate, and many other chemicals. Potash is also a component of feed supplements used to grow livestock and enhance milk production.
