The versatile applications of zinc oxide in industry
Zinc oxide is an extremely versatile mineral used in a variety of industrial sectors. From the production of rubber and plastics to coatings and paints – zinc oxide is an indispensable component of numerous manufacturing processes. In this blog post, we take a closer look at the technical applications and properties of this fascinating substance.
The properties of zinc oxide
Zinc oxide is an inorganic mineral composed of zinc and oxygen. It is characterized by a number of unique properties that make it a sought-after raw material in industry:
High refractive index and UV protection
One of the best-known properties of zinc oxide is its ability to absorb ultraviolet radiation. Therefore, it is often used as a sunscreen filter in cosmetic products. But zinc oxide can also serve as a natural UV protection in varnishes, paints, and coatings, thereby increasing the durability of the products.
Antibacterial effect
Zinc oxide also has antibacterial properties, making it interesting for various applications in medicine and hygiene. For example, it can be used in wound dressings, disinfectants, or textiles to prevent germ formation and odor development.
High thermal conductivity
In addition, zinc oxide is characterized by high thermal conductivity. This property makes it a valuable component in the electronics industry, where it is used in semiconductors, transistors, or capacitors.
Chemical resistance
Zinc oxide is also very resistant to chemical influences. It is neither sensitive to acids nor alkalis and can therefore be used without problems in aggressive environments.
Applications of zinc oxide in industry
The diverse properties of zinc oxide make it an extremely versatile material in industry. Here are some of the most important areas of application:
Rubber and plastics manufacturing
In rubber and plastics production, zinc oxide serves as a vulcanization accelerator and filler. It improves mechanical properties such as tear resistance, abrasion resistance, and temperature resistance of the materials.
Paints and coatings
Zinc oxide is also used in numerous paints and coatings. On the one hand as a pigment that provides white coloration, on the other hand as UV protection that increases the durability of the coatings.
Ceramics and glass
In the ceramics and glass industry, zinc oxide is used as a flux. It lowers the melting point and improves the processability of the materials. It also serves as an opacifying agent in glazes.
Medical applications
Due to its antibacterial effect, zinc oxide is also used in medicine. It is found in wound dressings, ointments, creams, and disinfectants.
Electronic products
In the electronics industry, zinc oxide is used, for example, in varistors, piezoceramics, and surge protectors. Here, the high thermal conductivity and electrical conductivity of the material are utilized.
Cosmetics
Last but not least, zinc oxide is an important component of many cosmetic products. Besides its function as a UV filter, it is also used as a mattifying agent in makeup and powders.
The production of zinc oxide
Zinc oxide is industrially produced in various ways. The two most common methods are:
Direct oxidation
In this process, metallic zinc is heated at high temperatures in an oxygen stream. The zinc burns and zinc oxide is formed in the form of a fine, white powder.
Wet process
Alternatively, zinc oxide can also be obtained by precipitation from zinc salt solutions. For this, a zinc salt solution is mixed with a precipitating agent such as caustic soda or ammonia. The precipitated zinc hydroxide is then calcined, i.e., heated to remove water and obtain zinc oxide.
Depending on the manufacturing process and purification steps, the properties of zinc oxide can vary. For example, particle size, crystal structure, and purity level can be specifically adjusted.
Conclusion
Zinc oxide is an extremely versatile and powerful material used in numerous industrial sectors. From rubber and plastics manufacturing to paints and coatings to electronics – the unique properties of the material make it an indispensable part of modern production processes. Whether as a pigment, UV protection, filler, or heat conductor – zinc oxide is a true all-rounder in the industry.
