Potash (KCl) is an odorless white crystal, which forms a neutral salt solution with water. Potash purity is expressed as percent K2O.
Generally used to provide potassium (K+) ions in shale-inhibiting drilling muds. The K+ ion provides a strong bonding ion between the clay platelets thus inhibiting the swelling of shales. Use in concentrations of 30.0-150.0 kg/m³.
The K+ ion is absorbed into the clay and is thus depleted from the system. The rate of absorption is related to the reactivity of the shale.
