Oxon (chemical)
In organic chemistry, "oxon" is a class name for certain oxidizing reagents derived from potassium monopersulfate (also known as potassium peroxymonosulfate). The most common form of "Oxon" is sold under the trademark Oxone.
Oxone is a triple salt with the formula 2KHSO5·KHSO4·K2SO4. The active component is potassium monopersulfate (KHSO5), a peracid salt. The other components, potassium bisulfate (KHSO4) and potassium sulfate (K2SO4), are included to improve stability and handling.
Oxone is a strong oxidant, and is used in a variety of chemical applications, including:
- Oxidation of organic compounds: Oxone can oxidize alcohols to ketones, sulfides to sulfoxides and sulfones, and alkenes to epoxides.
- Disinfection and bleaching: Due to its oxidizing power, Oxone is used in swimming pools and spas as a non-chlorine shock treatment to oxidize organic contaminants and prevent algae growth. It is also used in some cleaning products for its bleaching properties.
- Laboratory reagent: Oxone is frequently employed as a reagent in laboratory settings for various oxidative transformations.
- Etching and cleaning: It can be used in certain industrial processes for etching or cleaning surfaces.
The term "oxon" itself refers specifically to the peracid salt, potassium monopersulfate (KHSO5), while "Oxone" is the trademarked product name for the triple salt mixture containing it. Usage of "oxon" can sometimes be informal, referring to any solution containing potassium monopersulfate regardless of the presence of the other salts. It's important to understand the context to determine if the speaker is referring to the pure compound or the commercial product.