What is potassium permanganate?

Potassium permanganate, commonly known as 'thuốc tím' in Vietnamese, is an inorganic solid available in powder or crystalline form, with the chemical formula KMnO₄. This substance acts as a potent oxidizing agent and is highly effective in disinfection. It is used to reduce oxygen consumption in water. Potassium permanganate is soluble in water, producing a purple solution (hence the name 'thuốc tím'). This compound is flammable and can explode, especially when combined with organic substances at high temperatures, leading to significant explosions. Potassium permanganate is widely used in daily life and medicine.

To remove yellow stains from white clothing using potassium permanganate, follow these steps:

Materials Needed:

• Potassium permanganate (KMnO₄)
• Fresh lemons or lemon powder
• Clean water
• Protective gloves (recommended)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Potassium Permanganate Solution:

   • Dissolve a small amount of potassium permanganate in a basin of water to create a light purple solution.
   • Adjust the quantity based on the amount of clothing to be treated.

2. Soak the Clothing:

   • Submerge the white garments with yellow stains into the solution.
   • Soak for 10-15 minutes; the fabric will turn purple, and the yellow stains will become brown.

3. Wring and Rinse the Clothing:

   • After soaking, gently wring out excess liquid.
   • Rinse thoroughly with clean water to remove most of the remaining solution.

4. Soak in Lemon Solution:

   • In a separate basin, mix the juice of 2-3 lemons (or equivalent lemon powder) with clean water.
   • Soak the garments in this lemon solution for 10-15 minutes.
   • The acid in the lemon will react with the potassium permanganate, restoring the fabric to its bright white color and eliminating the stains.

5. Wash and Dry:

   • Wash the clothing with detergent and clean water to remove any residual substances.
   • Dry the garments in a well-ventilated area, avoiding direct sunlight to protect the fabric.

Notes:

• Wear gloves when handling potassium permanganate to protect your skin.
• Avoid using excessive amounts of potassium permanganate to prevent fabric damage.
• Do not soak the clothing in the solution for too long.
• This method is suitable for white garments; avoid using it on colored clothing to prevent discoloration.

This technique effectively removes yellow stains from white clothing, restoring them to a like-new brightness.