About zinc oxide

Main Traits and Characteristics of French Process Zinc Oxide

  • French Process Zinc Oxide is a white, odorless powder possessing high brightness, a high refractive index and a relatively fine particle size.
  • Zinc Oxide is insoluble in water, solvents and neutral oils, but is soluble in both strong acids and alkalis.
  • Zinc oxide has chemical properties which impede the growth of fungi, mildew and mold.

 

Typical applications and types of materials using zinc oxide include:

 

  

Rubber and Plastic Compounds

  • Zinc oxide is used in rubber and latex compounds as an activator in the curing and vulcanization process.
  • Zinc oxide is used as a reinforcing agent adding durability and abrasion resistance to compounds.
  • Zinc oxide aids in protecting rubber and plastics (especially outdoor weathering polypropylenes) from harmful UV rays.
  • Zinc oxide imparts heat resistance properties to various types of rubber and plastics compounds.

Specialty Chemicals

  • Zinc dispersions are used as ingredients in the vulcanizing of rubber.
  • Zinc salts are used in the production of plastics.
  • Zinc borate and zinc chlorides are used in flame-retardants.
  • Zinc diacrylate is a key ingredient in the manufacturing of golf balls.
  • Anti-corrosion materials such as zinc chromate and anti-wear additives such as zinc dithiophosphates for the lubricant industry are manufactured using zinc oxide.
  • Zinc oxide can be dissolved in phosphoric acid for use in the coating and metal priming industry and in sulfuric acid for electroplating.

Paints and Coatings

  • Zinc oxide is used in both water and solvent based formulations. It can be used as a pigment as well as an excellent brightener.
  • Zinc oxide is an additive which absorbs UV rays to extend color retention.
  • Finally zinc oxide is an excellent inhibitor of fungi, mildew and mold.

Ceramics and Glass

  • Zinc oxide is used to manufacture glazes and acts as an opacifier or whitener. Its low coefficient of thermal expansion improves resistance to thermal and mechanical shock, most notably in glass.
  • In the frit industry, zinc oxide enhances color and clarity.
  • Zinc oxide's high refractive index makes it an excellent raw
    material for manufacturing optical glass.
  • The varistor and ferrite industries use zinc oxide to manufacture ceramic
    components which protect against lightning and voltage surges.

Pharmaceuticals

  • USP Zinc Oxide is used in the production of lotions, sunscreens, and diaper rash prevention creams.
  • Cosmetic manufacturers use zinc oxide as a UV absorber.
  • Zinc oxide is used by manufacturers of dietary supplements (essential for the human body) and is also used to manufacture zinc gluconate, now found in cold prevention lozenges.

Animal Feed & Agricultural Fertilizers

  • Zinc oxide is an essential micronutrient used in feed mixes and promotes proper growth in animals.
  • Zinc oxide is used in the manufacturing of soil fertilizers.
  • Zinc supplements have been shown to increase crop yields and can play a role in enzyme systems to regulate plant growth.