[Chemical Knowledge]：The nature, use, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods of zirconium oxychloride, how to read zirconium oxychloride

Properties of zirconium oxychloride

Zirconium oxychloride (Zirconium Oxychloride,ZrOCl2 · 8H2O) is a common zirconium compound. In its pure state, it is colorless and transparent crystal, but industrial grade products often show light yellow to light green. This compound is readily soluble in water, forms an acidic solution, and deliquescent in air. It has high chemical stability and can remain stable in a wide pH range, but it will decompose at high temperatures and release hydrogen chloride gas. Zirconium oxychloride is amphoteric in aqueous solution and can react with acid to form zirconium salt or alkali to form zirconate.

Zirconium oxychloride use

Zirconium oxychloride has a wide range of uses in industrial production, especially in the chemical industry and materials science. It is a key intermediate in the preparation of zirconium compounds, such as zirconium oxide, zirconium silicate and other zirconium salts. Zirconium oxychloride is widely used in the preparation of catalysts, such as in petroleum cracking. It is also an important raw material in the ceramic industry, for the preparation of high strength, high wear-resistant ceramic products. Zirconium oxychloride is also used in the production of flame retardant materials and high temperature resistant coatings. Its excellent fire resistance and stability make it perform well in high temperature environments.

Zirconium oxychloride upstream and downstream raw materials

In the process of producing zirconium oxychloride, the upstream raw materials mainly include zirconium ore (such as zircon), hydrochloric acid and water. Zircon is crushed, ground and chlorinated at high temperature to generate zirconium chloride, and then zirconium oxychloride is generated by hydrolysis reaction. The main chemical reactions of the process are as follows:

[\text{ZrSiO} 4 4 \text{HCl} \rightarrow \text{ZrCl} 4 \text{SiCl} 4 2 \text{H} 2 \text{O}]

[\text{ZrCl} 4 \text{H} 2 \text{O} \rightarrow \text{ZrOCl}_2 2 \text{HCl}]

in this process, hydrochloric acid and water are essential reactants. Downstream, zirconium oxychloride is widely used in the manufacture of various zirconium-based products, such as high-purity zirconium oxide, zirconium chemicals, ceramics and refractory materials.

Zirconium oxychloride storage method

Since zirconium oxychloride is deliquescent and corrosive, its storage method requires special attention. Should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated environment to avoid moisture absorption and deliquescence. It is recommended to place it in a well-sealed plastic or glass container to prevent contact with moisture in the air. The storage area should be kept away from flammable and explosive substances and strong oxidants to prevent chemical reactions. Necessary protective equipment, such as protective gloves and goggles, should be provided to ensure that direct contact with skin and eyes is avoided during handling. For large-scale storage, the tightness of the container and the dryness of the environment should be checked regularly to ensure the stability of storage conditions.

Zirconium Oxychloride Market Demand and Prospect

With the continuous development of modern industrial technology, the market demand of zirconium oxychloride shows a steady upward trend. Especially in the field of high-performance ceramics, electronic materials and catalysts, the demand for zirconium oxychloride is increasing. Driven by new energy and environmental protection technology, zirconium oxychloride also shows broad application prospects in emerging fields such as solar cells, fuel cells and environmental protection catalysts. With the acceleration of global industrialization and the continuous breakthrough of new material technology, zirconium oxychloride, as an important zirconium-based compound, has a very broad market prospect.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

Special attention should be paid to environmental protection and safety issues in the production and application of zirconium oxychloride. The waste water, waste gas and waste residue produced in the production process need to be strictly treated to avoid environmental pollution. In particular, wastewater containing chlorides and zirconium compounds must be neutralized and precipitated to ensure that emissions meet environmental standards. In the application process, attention should be paid to prevent the dust diffusion of zirconium oxychloride to avoid harm to human health. Appropriate protective measures shall be provided during use to ensure the safety of operators.

Summary

Zirconium oxychloride, as an important chemical raw material and intermediate, has a wide range of applications. Its stable chemical properties and multi-functional application characteristics make it occupy an important position in many industrial fields. Through reasonable storage and environmental protection measures, it can ensure its safety and environmental protection in production and application. With the progress of science and technology and the continuous growth of market demand, the future development of zirconium oxychloride will be more broad.