Layman's difference between KMnO4 & KFO2N

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The discussion centers on the differences between potassium permanganate (KMnO4) and KFO2N, particularly in the context of their use in survival scenarios for starting fires. Potassium permanganate is a well-known chemical with specific applications, while KFO2N is a product name that may refer to a mixture or formulation rather than a distinct chemical. Users noted that both KMnO4 and KFO2N can be found in products labeled as "pot-perm," often leading to confusion due to unclear labeling. The small print on these products may indicate which chemical is present, but it can sometimes be ambiguous or missing. Ultimately, KMnO4 is the chemical likely used in survival shows for fire-starting reactions.
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I hope I can get some help here, I am looking for a layman's explanation of the difference between Layman's difference between KMnO4 & KFO2N.

I ask because in last year's seasons of several survival tv shows, they showed them starting fires via a chemical reaction between Glycerin and Potassium Permanganate. I did some research, and Potassium Permanganate is sold as a fish pond chemical. Here is where it gets interesting. If you do a Google search on Potassium Permanganate, you see chemical supply houses selling KMnO4, and you see pool supply stores selling it under the name "pot-perm", but in small print you may be getting either KMnO4 or KFO2N.

Which is the one they likely used on the tv shows to start fires?
 
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KFO2N is not a chemical name while potassium permanganate (KMnO4) is.

"KFO2N" is a product name like "409" cleaner.

...but in small print you may be getting either KMnO4 or KFO2N.
Where is this 'fine print' you referred to?
 
Great, that clears it up, thank you!

The small print I referred to is usually text on the sticker on the front of the bottle, somewhere below the giant print "POT PERM". Some said KMnO4, some said KFO2N, and some just didn't say. Thanks for laying it out for me, now it makes sense.
 
OK, I thought maybe the KFO2N was in the small print of the ingredient list.
 
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