It is a combination of manganese, oxygen and potassium. It dissolves easily in water and forms a purple solution. This substance has a sweet taste and is odorless. The appearance of this substance is in the form of dark purple crystals that are needle-shaped. It is insoluble in ethanol and inorganic solvents and is soluble in acetone and acetic acid. Permanganate ion is a strong oxidizing agent that is used in water purification, chemical production and as a disinfectant.

This material is used as a food additive. Also, in the industry, this substance is used for bleaching and decolorizing oils, fats and waxes.