Thermal decomposition of potassium permanganate: Thermogravimetry, differential scanning calorimetry and hot-stage microscopy studies

Abstract

Thermogravimetry (TG), differential scanning calorimetry (d.s.c.), and hot-stage microscopy (HSM) techniques have been applied in a study of the thermal decomposition of potassium permanganate. Single crystals of potassium permanganate and ground samples are studied at heating rates from 0.62 to 10 °C min −1, and results compared with previous isothermal studies. Comparison of theoretical and experimental weight loss is made, for both forms of potassium permangante, and a possible mechanism based on diffusion chain theory and nucleation suggested.