Zinc Oxide - ZnO

ZnO 

Zinc oxide (ZnO) is an inorganic compound commonly used in various products and industries. Here are some key points about zinc oxide:

1. Chemical Properties:

   • Formula: ZnO
   • Appearance: It is a white powder that is insoluble in water.
   • Structure: Zinc oxide crystallizes in two main forms: hexagonal wurtzite and cubic zincblende, though the hexagonal form is more common.

2. Uses:

   • Skin Protection: Zinc oxide is widely used in topical ointments, creams, and sunscreens due to its ability to block ultraviolet (UV) radiation. It is also used in diaper rash creams and other skin treatments for its soothing and protective properties.
   • Pigment: Known as zinc white, it is used as a pigment in paints, coatings, and cosmetics. It provides whiteness and opacity.
   • Rubber Industry: Zinc oxide is used as an additive in the rubber manufacturing process, where it serves as an activator in the vulcanization process, improving the durability and elasticity of rubber products.
   • Ceramics: It is used in the ceramics industry to manufacture tiles, glasses, and enamels, providing glaze and texture.
   • Electronics: Zinc oxide is used in the production of varistors, which protect electrical circuits from voltage spikes. It is also a semiconductor and finds use in various electronic applications, including LEDs and transistors.
   • Food Additive: It is added to food products as a source of zinc, which is an essential nutrient for human health.

3. Health and Safety:

   • Topical Use: Zinc oxide is generally recognized as safe for topical use and is a common ingredient in over-the-counter skin products.
   • Inhalation: Inhaling fine particles of zinc oxide, such as those generated during industrial processes, can cause metal fume fever, a temporary flu-like condition.
   • Ingestion: Ingestion of zinc oxide in large quantities can be harmful, but it is considered safe in small amounts as used in food fortification.

4. Environmental Impact:

   • Zinc oxide is not considered environmentally hazardous. However, its use in various industries can lead to its dispersion in the environment, where it should be managed properly to avoid any potential ecological impacts.

5. Production:

   • Zinc oxide is produced through several methods, including the French process, where zinc metal is vaporized and then oxidized, and the American process, where zinc ore is heated with carbon to produce zinc vapor, which is then oxidized.

Overall, zinc oxide is a versatile compound with a wide range of applications in industries such as cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, electronics, and manufacturing. Its beneficial properties make it a valuable ingredient in many products.

Formula: ZnO
Molar Mass: 81.406 g/mol
Form: white powder
CAS Number: 1314-13-2
EC Number: 215-222-5
Density: 5.6 g/cm³
Synonyms: ZINC OXIDE, oxozinc, Zinc White, Zinc Oxide Powder, Chinese White, Snow white, Azo-33, Supertah, Zincite, Azodox, Lassars Paste, Flores de zinci. Lassar Paste, Zinci Oxicum, Hubbuck's White, Blanc de Zinc, Vandem VPC, Azodox-55, Protox, Cynku tlenek, Desitin, Nogenol, No-Genol