murphyPentapotassium Triphosphate
AKA: 13845-36-8, Triphosphoric acid, Potassium salt (1:5), Pentapotassium salt, Potassium triphosphate (K5P3O10)
Synthetic
Chelating Agent
Not Clean
OriginSynthesized from phosphoric acid and potassium compounds through neutralization and condensation reactions. Produced by controlled reaction of phosphoric acid with potassium hydroxide or potassium carbonate sources.
The CIR Expert Panel concluded that the following 31 ingredients are safe in the present practices of use and concentration in cosmetics as described in this safety assessment, when formulated to be non-irritating...Pentapotassium Triphosphate...
Solubility Very soluble in water
Formula
K5O10P3
Mol. Weight
448.41
CAS #
13845-36-8
Form
Powder
State
Other Solid
Skin Types
●all-skin-types
Best For
General
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safe
Yes
Functions
Buffering
Chelating
Grabs onto metal ions in water that would destabilize the formula. Keeps your product from going bad or changing color.
Fights Acne
Maintains optimal pH
Binds metal ions
The paper trail
🔬Peer-reviewednone on file
⚖️Regulatory1 listing →
🛡️Safety-assessed1 review →
Counts, not a verdict. A listing isn't a study. The trail, you decide.
EWG
4
CIR
Safe as used
Pregnancy
Yes
CIR Safety Findings
Not a Skin Irritant
1 study / 1 not irritating (CIR 710)
Mixed Eye Irritation Results
1 study / 1 mixed / reactions mild (CIR 710)
Concentration Guide
CIR lists it as not reported to be in use.
CIR · report published 2021
Regulatory Agencies
Verified Jun 2026
Data: PubChem · CosIng · EWG · CIR