Zinc Stearate
Zinc Stearate is a fine, white powder composed of zinc salts of stearic acid. It is a hydrophobic, non-toxic metal soap widely used as a lubricant, release agent, and stabilizer in plastics, rubber, paints, coatings, and personal care industries. Known for its excellent mold-release properties and compatibility with a range of polymers, Zinc Stearate offers thermal stability and processing efficiency across industrial applications.
Zinc Stearate
Primary Uses
Plastics Industry
- Mold Release Agent: Prevents thermoplastics (e.g., PVC, ABS, PS) from sticking to molds.
- Processing Aid: Improves flow and dispersion during extrusion and molding.
- Stabilizer: Acts as a heat stabilizer in PVC formulations, often in combination with calcium stearate.
Rubber Industry
- Lubricant: Reduces internal friction during rubber processing and extrusion.
- Release Agent: Facilitates demolding of rubber parts and profiles.
- Activator: Enhances vulcanization when used with sulfur-based systems.
Paints & Coatings
- Matting Agent: Reduces gloss and improves texture in paints, lacquers, and powder coatings.
- Dispersing Aid: Improves pigment dispersion and prevents caking in formulations.
Cosmetics & Personal Care
- Bulking & Opacifying Agent: Used in powders, creams, and lotions to provide smooth texture and opacity.
- Water Repellency: Enhances moisture resistance in formulations. (Use restricted to cosmetic/personal care grades)
Secondary Uses
Pharmaceuticals
- Tablet Lubricant: Used as a dry lubricant in tablet manufacturing to prevent sticking. (Only when specified for pharmaceutical grade)
Construction Materials
- Hydrophobic Additive: Used in plasters and cement to increase water resistance and spreadability.
Textile Industry
- Softening Agent: Imparts softness and anti-static properties to fabrics in specialty treatments.
Paper Industry
- Surface Coating Aid: Enhances gloss and water resistance in certain coated papers and paperboard.
Polishes and Wax Products
- Thickener & Binder: Improves consistency and adhesion in furniture and automotive waxes/polishes.
Basic Identification Attributes
- Chemical Name (IUPAC): Zinc octadecanoate
- Common/Trade Name: Zinc Stearate
- CAS Number: 557-05-1
- HS Code: 2915.70.00
- Synonyms: Zinc distearate, stearic acid zinc salt
Physical & Chemical Properties
- Physical State: Fine, hydrophobic powder
- Color & Odor: White to off-white; slight fatty odor
- Melting Point: >120 °C (softens)
- Solubility: Insoluble in water and alcohol; soluble in aromatic hydrocarbons and chlorinated solvents
- Density: ~1.1 g/cm³
- pH (10% dispersion): ~7.5–8.5
Safety & Hazard Attributes
- GHS Classification:
- Not classified as hazardous
- Dust may cause mild eye or respiratory irritation
- Toxicity: Low toxicity; considered safe under normal handling conditions
- Exposure Limits: No specific limits; general dust exposure limits apply
Storage & Handling Attributes
- Storage Conditions: Store in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from moisture and oxidizers
- Container Type: 25 kg bags or fiber drums with liners
- Shelf Life: Up to 2 years under proper storage conditions
- Handling Precautions: Minimize dust formation; use standard PPE
Regulatory & Compliance Attributes
- Complies with REACH, OSHA, and TSCA regulations
- Listed in international chemical inventories (EINECS, DSL, AICS, etc.)
- Manufactured under ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 standards
- GMP-compliant production when intended for cosmetic or pharmaceutical use
- RoHS-compliant for electronics and plastics
- Conforms to FDA and EU standards for indirect food contact (when applicable)
Environmental & Health Impact
- Biodegradability: Biodegradable in the environment
- Ecotoxicity: Low; not expected to be hazardous to aquatic life
- Bioaccumulation: Negligible
Safety Handling Precautions
- PPE Required: Gloves, goggles, dust mask if airborne particles are present
- Handling Guidelines: Use local exhaust ventilation; prevent dust accumulation
- Storage Measures: Keep sealed in original containers; avoid exposure to high humidity
First Aid Measures
- Inhalation: Move to fresh air; seek medical help if respiratory symptoms persist
- Skin Contact: Wash thoroughly with soap and water
- Eye Contact: Rinse with water for at least 15 minutes
- Ingestion: Not expected to be toxic; rinse mouth and consult a physician if large amounts are ingested
Firefighting Measures
- Fire Hazards: Not flammable but combustible as a dust cloud
- Extinguishing Media: Dry chemical, foam, CO₂, or water spray
- Hazardous Combustion Products: May emit zinc oxide and carbon oxides