Potassium Dimethyldithiocarbamate: A Key Chemical in Industrial and Environmental Applications

Potassium Dimethyldithiocarbamate (PDD), chemically known as potassium dimethyl dithiocarbamate with the molecular formula C₃H₆NS₂K and CAS number 128-03-0, is an important organosulfur compound. It appears as a pale yellow transparent liquid with a faint ammonia odor and remains stable under alkaline conditions.

Key Characteristics

• Chemical Structure: PDD features a dithiocarbamate functional group, granting it exceptional metal ion chelating capabilities.

• Physical Properties: The industrial-grade product typically exists as a pale yellow liquid with a density of 1.20–1.25 g/cm³ and a pH range of 10–14.

• Stability: It remains stable at room temperature but decomposes upon exposure to strong acids or high temperatures, releasing carbon disulfide and other byproducts.

Primary Applications

1. Rubber Industry
PDD serves as a critical polymerization terminator in the production of emulsion-polymerized styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), enabling precise control over reaction cessation. Additionally, it acts as an efficient vulcanization accelerator, enhancing the strength and durability of rubber products.

2. Heavy Metal Wastewater Treatment
As a high-performance chelating agent, PDD forms insoluble precipitates with heavy metal ions such as cadmium, nickel, and mercury. Studies demonstrate its cadmium removal efficiency exceeds 99% in wastewater treatment, with synergistic effects when combined with polyaluminum chloride (PAC).

3. Agricultural Applications
PDD is an intermediate in synthesizing fungicides like Thiram and Ziram, offering protection against various crop diseases while providing supplementary plant nutrition.

4. Other Industrial Uses

• Industrial Biocide: Applied in papermaking, petroleum, and other sectors.

• Mineral Processing Agent: Utilized in flotation processes for manganese and copper ores.

• Polymerization Inhibitor: Regulates reaction rates in specific polymerization processes.

As a versatile chemical, PDD plays a pivotal role in advancing industrial development and environmental protection. With increasingly stringent environmental regulations, its applications in heavy metal pollution control and related fields are poised for significant expansion.