Zinc Oxide is a white, inorganic compound widely used as a sunscreen agent, skin protectant, and antimicrobial agent in cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and industrial applications.
Zinc Oxide is valued for its UV-blocking properties, making it a popular ingredient in sunscreens and protective skincare formulations.
Beyond cosmetics, Zinc Oxide is also essential in rubber manufacturing, ceramics, and paints, where it provides heat resistance, opacity, and durability.
CAS Number: 1314-13-2
EC Number: 215-222-5
Molecular Formula: ZnO
Molecular Weight: 81.38 g/mol
Synonyms: Zinc Oxide, ZnO, Calamine, Zinc White, Chinese White, Flowers of Zinc, Zincite, Philosopher’s Wool, Zinc Oxide Powder, Zinc Oxide Nanoparticles, Oxozinc, C.I. 77947, Zinc Oxide Mineral, Cosmetic Zinc Oxide, Zinc Monoxide, Zinc Oxide Pigment, Zinc Oxide Sunscreen, Antimicrobial Zinc Oxide, White Zinc Oxide, USP Grade Zinc Oxide, Zinci Oxidum, Pharmaceutical Grade ZnO, Zinc Oxide for Ceramics, Zinc Oxide for Rubber, Zinc Oxide Industrial, Oxide of Zinc, EINECS 215-222-5, Zinc Oxide Powdered, Zinc White Pigment
APPLICATIONS
Zinc Oxide is widely used in sunscreen formulations as a physical UV filter, providing broad-spectrum protection against UVA and UVB rays.
Zinc Oxide is essential in skincare products for sensitive skin, where it acts as a soothing agent to reduce redness and irritation.
Zinc Oxide is included in diaper rash creams and lotions, forming a protective barrier that prevents moisture loss and soothes irritated skin.
Zinc Oxide is applied in wound care products and bandages, where it supports wound healing and offers antimicrobial protection.
Zinc Oxide is used in acne treatment products, where it helps absorb excess oil and provides an anti-inflammatory effect, reducing the appearance of blemishes.
Zinc Oxide is a common ingredient in calamine lotion, where it soothes itching and skin discomfort from insect bites and rashes.
Zinc Oxide is incorporated into anti-dandruff shampoos, where it helps reduce flakiness and soothe the scalp.
Zinc Oxide is found in deodorants and antiperspirants, where it acts as an antimicrobial agent, reducing odor-causing bacteria.
Zinc Oxide is used in foot powders, where it absorbs moisture and reduces friction, helping to prevent foot odor and discomfort.
Zinc Oxide is essential in rubber manufacturing, where it acts as an activator in the vulcanization process, improving the elasticity and durability of rubber products.
Zinc Oxide is applied in the production of tires, seals, and hoses, providing heat resistance and reinforcing rubber's strength.
Zinc Oxide is used in the production of footwear and other rubber-based consumer goods for its durability-enhancing properties.
Zinc Oxide is utilized in ceramics and glass production, where it increases opacity, gloss, and chemical resistance of ceramic glazes and glass products.
Zinc Oxide is included in paint formulations, providing UV resistance, opacity, and mildew resistance, making it ideal for exterior paints.
Zinc Oxide is a common additive in inks and coatings, where it enhances printability, adhesion, and durability.
Zinc Oxide is used in agricultural applications as a micronutrient in fertilizers, helping to prevent zinc deficiency in soil and improve crop yield.
Zinc Oxide is incorporated into livestock feed, where it supplies essential zinc for animal growth and development.
Zinc Oxide is utilized in veterinary formulations, where it provides soothing and protective benefits for animal skin.
Zinc Oxide is found in pharmaceutical formulations, where it serves as a mild astringent, protecting the skin and mucous membranes.
Zinc Oxide is applied in dental cements, where it acts as a filler and provides antibacterial protection, ensuring oral health.
Zinc Oxide is used in medical ointments and powders, offering antibacterial and antifungal protection to treat minor skin infections.
DESCRIPTION
Zinc Oxide is an inorganic compound that appears as a white powder, known for its protective, astringent, and UV-blocking properties, making it valuable across a range of applications.
Due to its ability to reflect and scatter UV light, Zinc Oxide is widely used in sunscreens and skincare products, offering broad-spectrum sun protection.
Zinc Oxide is recognized for its soothing and antimicrobial effects, ideal for sensitive skin products, wound care, and anti-dandruff formulations.
Zinc Oxide is inert, insoluble in water, and highly stable, making it suitable for long-lasting applications in both consumer products and industrial materials.
This compound is biodegradable and non-toxic, making it environmentally friendly and safe for sensitive and pediatric skincare formulations.
In addition to its protective benefits, Zinc Oxide is a versatile pigment and filler, enhancing opacity, texture, and durability in paints, coatings, and rubber products.
PROPERTIES
Chemical Formula: ZnO
Molecular Weight: 81.38 g/mol
Common Name: Zinc Oxide
Appearance: White powder
Density: Approx. 5.61 g/cm³
Boiling Point: 1975°C
Melting Point: 1975°C (sublimes)
Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in acids and bases
Flash Point: Non-flammable
Reactivity: Stable under normal conditions; avoid strong acids and bases
Chemical Stability: Stable under recommended storage conditions
Storage Temperature: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
Vapor Pressure: Negligible
FIRST AID
Inhalation:
If Zinc Oxide dust is inhaled, move the affected person to fresh air immediately.
If breathing difficulties persist, seek immediate medical attention.
If the person is not breathing, administer artificial respiration.
Keep the affected person warm and at rest.
Skin Contact:
Wash the affected area with soap and water.
If skin irritation or rash develops, seek medical attention.
Eye Contact:
In case of eye contact, flush the eyes with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes, lifting upper and lower eyelids.
Seek immediate medical attention if irritation or redness persists.
Remove contact lenses if present and easy to do; continue rinsing.
Ingestion:
If Zinc Oxide is ingested, rinse the mouth thoroughly with water.
Do not induce vomiting unless directed by medical personnel.
Seek immediate medical attention.
If the person is conscious, give small sips of water to drink.
Note to Physicians:
Treat symptomatically.
No specific antidote.
Provide supportive care.
HANDLING AND STORAGE
Handling:
Personal Protection:
Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and safety goggles, when handling large quantities of Zinc Oxide.
Use in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhalation of dust.
Ventilation:
Ensure adequate ventilation when handling Zinc Oxide to control airborne concentrations below occupational exposure limits.
Avoidance:
Avoid direct contact with eyes and prolonged skin contact.
Do not eat, drink, or smoke while handling Zinc Oxide.
Wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Spill and Leak Procedures:
Contain spills to prevent further release and minimize exposure.
Sweep up spills carefully to avoid dust generation and dispose of according to local regulations.
Storage:
Store Zinc Oxide in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area away from incompatible materials such as strong acids.
Keep containers tightly closed when not in use to prevent contamination.
Store away from heat sources, direct sunlight, and moisture.
Handling Cautions:
Avoid inhalation of dust and direct contact with skin and eyes.
Use explosion-proof equipment in areas where dust particles may be present.