Rachana Intermediates Private Limited

Zinc Oxide Powder (ZnO) is a white, powdery compound that is widely used across various industries due to its versatile properties. It is a chemical compound that is commonly used in a range of applications, from cosmetics to industrial processes. Below is an overview of Zinc Oxide Powder:

Key Characteristics:

• Chemical Formula: ZnO
• Appearance: It is a fine, white powder at room temperature and is usually odorless.
• Molecular Weight: 81.38 g/mol
• Solubility: It is insoluble in water, but soluble in acids, such as hydrochloric acid, where it forms zinc chloride (ZnCl₂).
• Melting Point: Zinc oxide has a high melting point of around 1,975°C (3,587°F), which makes it useful in high-temperature applications.
• Particle Size: Zinc oxide powder can be found in different grades, with the nano-grade being used in specific applications like sunscreens due to its small particle size.

Properties:

• Antibacterial: ZnO has antimicrobial properties, making it useful in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and medical products.
• UV Protection: Zinc oxide is known for its ability to absorb and reflect ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which makes it a key ingredient in sunscreens and skin-care products.
• Electrical Conductivity: While zinc oxide is generally an insulator, it exhibits semiconducting properties under certain conditions, which is useful in the electronics industry.
• High Stability: Zinc oxide is chemically stable and doesn't react easily with other substances at ambient temperatures.
• Thermal Conductivity: ZnO is a good conductor of heat, which makes it valuable in electronic and heat dissipation applications.

Common Applications:

1. Cosmetics and Skincare:

   • Sunscreens: Zinc oxide is a popular active ingredient in sunscreens due to its ability to block UVA and UVB rays. It is especially valued in mineral sunscreens for sensitive skin.
   • Zinc Oxide Ointments: It is used in ointments and creams for treating rashes, particularly diaper rash and minor skin irritations, because of its soothing and protective properties.
   • Face Powders: ZnO is used in various face powders and makeup products, owing to its skin benefits and ability to provide a matte finish.

2. Pharmaceuticals:

   • Zinc oxide is commonly used in topical medications for treating skin conditions like acne, burns, eczema, and diaper rash.
   • Zinc oxide pastes are also used in bandages and medical plasters due to their antimicrobial properties.

3. Rubber and Plastics Industry:

   • ZnO is used as an activator in the vulcanization of rubber. It helps improve the strength, durability, and elasticity of rubber products.
   • Plastics: Zinc oxide is added to plastics for improved performance, acting as a stabilizer and flame retardant in some cases.

4. Paints and Coatings:

   • It is used in paints as a pigment (known as zinc white) and also helps improve the paint’s durability, UV resistance, and mildew resistance.
   • Zinc oxide is used in anti-fungal paints, particularly for outdoor use, to prevent the growth of fungi and mold on painted surfaces.

5. Electronics:

   • Semiconductor Industry: Zinc oxide is used in varistors, which are electronic components designed to protect circuits from high voltage surges.
   • It is also employed in the production of thin-film transistors and other electronic components due to its semiconducting properties.