Zinc chloride
Zinc Chloride is a highly versatile, white crystalline inorganic compound known for its strong hygroscopic nature and high solubility in water. It serves multiple industrial roles including fluxing, dehydrating, catalysis, and preservation. With applications across metallurgy, pharmaceuticals, textiles, water treatment, and chemical synthesis, Zinc Chloride is valued for its reactivity and binding properties.
Zinc chloride
Primary Uses
Metallurgical Industry
- Flux Agent: Used in galvanizing, soldering, and tinning to remove oxides and promote metal adhesion.
- Electroplating: Acts as an electrolyte in zinc electroplating processes.
Chemical Industry
- Catalyst: Promotes reactions such as Friedel-Crafts alkylation and polymerizations.
- Dehydrating Agent: Used in organic synthesis to remove water and drive chemical reactions forward.
Textile Industry
- Mercerization & Printing: Aids in treating fabrics to enhance strength and dye uptake.
- Textile Fiber Dissolution: Used to dissolve cellulose in viscose rayon production.
Water Treatment
- Corrosion Inhibitor: Added to industrial water systems to prevent pipe corrosion.
Petroleum Industry
- Oil Refining: Acts as a catalyst in hydrocracking and other refining processes.
Secondary Uses
Pharmaceutical Industry
- Astringent & Disinfectant: Used in topical formulations and antiseptic preparations (in limited, regulated concentrations).
Wood Preservation
- Preservative Agent: Protects timber from rot and insects when used in treating wood.
Batteries & Electronics
- Electrolyte Additive: Used in Leclanché (dry cell) batteries to maintain ionic conductivity.
Rubber & Adhesives
- Activator: Enhances vulcanization and adhesive bonding in some specialty applications.
Laboratory Use
- Reagent Grade Chemical: Widely used in qualitative analysis and synthesis in research labs.
Deodorants & Personal Care
- Odor Neutralizer (Historic Use): Formerly used in some formulations for its astringent properties. (Now limited due to safety concerns.)
Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Zinc chloride
- Common/Trade Name: Zinc Chloride
- CAS Number: 7646-85-7
- HS Code: 2827.39.00
- Synonyms: Zinc dichloride, ZnCl₂
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: White crystalline solid or powder
- Color & Odor: White; odorless
- Melting Point: ~290 °C
- Boiling Point: Sublimes at 732 °C (decomposes)
- Density: 2.91 g/cm³
- Solubility: Highly soluble in water, ethanol, and glycerol
- Hygroscopicity: Strongly hygroscopic
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification:
- Corrosive to skin and eyes
- Harmful if swallowed or inhaled
- Toxicity: Moderate; causes burns and mucosal irritation
- Exposure Limits: Follow OSHA and ACGIH guidelines
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in tightly closed containers, in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area
- Container Type: Plastic-lined drums or sealed HDPE containers
- Shelf Life: Up to 2 years under optimal conditions
- Handling Precautions: Avoid moisture exposure; use PPE due to corrosive nature
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Complies with REACH, TSCA, and OSHA chemical regulations
- Listed on international chemical inventories (EINECS, DSL, etc.)
- Subject to restrictions in food/pharma use; follow country-specific guidelines
- Manufactured under ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards when applicable
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Not applicable (inorganic compound)
- Ecotoxicity: Toxic to aquatic life; must be prevented from entering water bodies
- Bioaccumulation: Low; zinc is an essential but potentially toxic trace element
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Gloves, eye protection, dust mask or respirator
- Handling Guidelines: Use in well-ventilated areas; avoid contact with skin and mucous membranes
- Storage Measures: Keep containers sealed and protected from moisture
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air immediately; seek medical help if respiratory symptoms occur
- Skin Contact: Rinse with water for 15 minutes; remove contaminated clothing
- Eye Contact: Rinse with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes; seek urgent medical care
- Ingestion: Do not induce vomiting; seek medical attention immediately
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Non-flammable, but decomposes at high temperature to release toxic fumes
- Extinguishing Media: Use suitable extinguishing agents for surrounding fire (e.g., water spray, dry powder)
- Hazardous Combustion Products: Hydrogen chloride, zinc oxide fumes