Potassium Chlorate at High Altitude: Lost to History.

Area of Science:

• Chemistry
• Environmental Science
• Aerospace Engineering

Background:

• Chlorates, particularly potassium chlorate, have been utilized since the 19th century.
• High-temperature thermal decomposition of chlorates yields oxygen.
• Historical and modern applications of chlorates are relevant to supplemental oxygen generation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the historical and current uses of potassium chlorate and related compounds.
• To emphasize the application of chlorates in high-altitude environments and emergency oxygen systems.
• To address the efficacy and safety of oral chlorate ingestion for mountain sickness.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific publications and historical records.
• Analysis of chemical properties of chlorates related to oxygen production.
• Examination of case studies and documented uses in mountaineering, aviation, and space exploration.

Main Results:

• Potassium chlorate and other chlorates are effective oxygen sources through thermal decomposition.
• Oral ingestion of potassium chlorate was historically used for pharyngitis and erroneously for mountain sickness prevention/treatment.
• Modern aircraft and spacecraft utilize chlorates and perchlorates for emergency oxygen generation.

Conclusions:

• Chlorates remain a viable technology for supplemental oxygen production.
• The historical use of oral potassium chlorate in mountaineering highlights a misconception regarding its physiological effects.
• Continued use in aerospace underscores the importance of chlorate-based oxygen systems for critical applications.