Zinc Oxide (99.5%) - Taiwan

Brief Overview

Zinc oxide, with the chemical formula ZnO, is an inorganic compound that presents itself as a white, water-insoluble powder. It plays a foundational role in numerous applications, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, antiseptics, soaps, ointments, animal feed, zinc-derived chemicals, matches, paints, pigments, ceramics, adhesives, plastics, and rubber tire additives. Despite its natural occurrence in the earth's crust as zincite, the commercially utilized zinc oxide is primarily synthetic.

Manufacturing Process

Various grades of zinc oxide can be produced using electrolytic zinc from approved suppliers. In the French Process for zinc oxide production, zinc undergoes controlled melting, vaporization, and oxidation to attain particle sizes specific to different grades. Following the cooling process, the zinc oxide is collected, sampled, and analyzed to ensure adherence to grade specifications. The implementation of statistical process control and quality assurance techniques guarantees the purity, consistency, and uniformity of particle size, establishing a connection between the quality assurance laboratory, production, and sales departments through an information system.

Rubber and Plastic Compounds

Zinc oxide plays a crucial role in rubber and latex compounds, serving as an activator during curing and vulcanization, imparting durability and abrasion resistance. It acts as a reinforcing agent and aids in safeguarding rubber and plastics, particularly outdoor weathering polypropylenes, from harmful UV rays. Additionally, it enhances heat resistance in various rubber and plastics compounds.

Specialty Chemicals

Zinc dispersions are integral components in rubber vulcanization, and zinc salts contribute to plastics production. Zinc borate and zinc chlorides serve as flame-retardants, while zinc diacrylate is essential in the manufacturing of golf balls. Zinc oxide contributes to the production of anti-corrosion materials like zinc chromate and anti-wear additives such as zinc dithiophosphates for the lubricant industry. Dissolving zinc oxide in phosphoric acid is employed in the coating and metal priming industry, and in sulfuric acid for electroplating.

Paints and Coatings

Zinc oxide is applicable in both water and solvent-based formulations, acting as a pigment and a brightener. It absorbs UV rays, prolonging color retention, and effectively inhibits fungi, mildew, and mold.

Ceramics and Glass

In the production of glazes, zinc oxide serves as an opacifier or whitener, enhancing resistance to thermal and mechanical shock, particularly in glass due to its low coefficient of thermal expansion. In the frit industry, zinc oxide improves color and clarity, and its high refractive index makes it an ideal raw material for optical glass manufacturing. Industries producing varistors and ferrites utilize zinc oxide to create ceramic components that offer protection against lightning and voltage surges.

Pharmaceutical and Food

USP Zinc Oxide plays a role in the formulation of lotions, sunscreens, and creams for diaper rash prevention. Cosmetic manufacturers employ zinc oxide as a UV absorber, and it is a crucial component in dietary supplements and the production of zinc gluconate, commonly found in cold prevention lozenges.

Micro Nutrients

Zinc oxide functions as an essential micronutrient in feed mixes, fostering proper animal growth. It is utilized in soil fertilizer manufacturing, where zinc supplements have demonstrated an increase in crop yields and contribute to enzyme systems regulating plant growth.