[Chemical Knowledge]：The nature, use, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods of oxides, what are the properties of oxides

oxide properties

Oxides are compounds formed by oxygen and other elements, which can be divided into acidic oxides, basic oxides and amphoteric oxides according to their chemical properties. Acidic oxides are usually formed by combining non-metallic elements with oxygen, such as carbon dioxide (CO₂) and sulfur dioxide (SO₂); alkaline oxides are usually formed by combining metallic elements with oxygen, such as calcium oxide (CaO) and magnesium oxide (MgO); Amphoteric oxides, such as alumina (Al₂ O), can be acidic or alkaline under different conditions. The physical properties of oxides, such as melting point, boiling point, solubility, etc., vary greatly depending on their chemical composition and structure. For example, silicon dioxide (SiO₂) is a high-melting solid, while carbon monoxide (CO) is a gas.

Oxide Uses

Oxides are widely used in various industrial fields. For example, silicon dioxide is an important raw material for glass manufacturing and is also an important material in the semiconductor industry. Alumina is not only used to prepare aluminum metal, but also widely used in ceramics, refractory materials and catalysts. Titanium dioxide (TiO₂) is widely used as a white pigment in coatings, plastics and cosmetics. Zinc oxide (ZnO) is commonly used in ointments and sunscreens due to its good antibacterial and UV-shielding properties. Iron oxide (Fe₂ Olocated) is widely used in magnetic materials and pigments.

Upstream raw materials

The production of oxides involves a variety of upstream raw materials, which are usually metal ores, non-metallic minerals or chemical raw materials. Take the production of alumina as an example, the main raw material is bauxite, and the alumina is extracted by the Bayer process. The raw materials for the production of silica are mostly high-purity quartz sand, which is melted and cooled to obtain high-purity silica. Raw materials for the production of iron oxide include iron ore, obtained by calcination or chemical oxidation. For some special oxides, such as high purity titanium dioxide, the raw material sources include ilmenite and rutile ore.

Downstream Products

The downstream products of oxides involve a wide range of applications. Taking alumina as an example, its downstream products include aluminum metal, ceramic materials and refractory bricks. The downstream products of silica are glass, optical fiber and electronic components. The downstream products of titanium dioxide are mainly various coatings, inks and plastic products. Zinc oxide is used in rubber products, ceramics and pharmaceuticals. Downstream products of iron oxide include magnetic materials and architectural coatings. The diversity and wide application of downstream products make oxides occupy an important position in the industry.

Production process

The production process of oxide is varied, and the appropriate process method is selected according to the different raw materials and products. Taking the production of alumina as an example, bauxite is treated by the Bayer process, and alumina is obtained by alkali dissolution, separation and calcination. The production of silica is mostly quartz sand melting method, or by chemical precipitation method to obtain high purity products. The production of titanium dioxide commonly used sulfuric acid and chloride method, through the chemical treatment of ore to obtain titanium dioxide. The production of zinc oxide includes direct and indirect methods, respectively, by calcining zinc ore or distillation method to obtain high purity zinc oxide.

storage method

The storage method of the oxide depends on its chemical nature and physical state. For solid oxides, such as alumina and silica, they are usually stored in a dry, ventilated warehouse to prevent moisture and contamination. For hygroscopic or chemically active oxides, such as calcium oxide, be sealed and stored away from water sources. Liquid or gaseous oxides, such as carbon monoxide, need to be stored in special containers to avoid leakage and safety accidents. Some special oxides, such as titanium dioxide nanomaterials, also need to pay attention to prevent agglomeration and deterioration.

Environmental Protection and Safety

The environmental and safety issues involved in the production and use of oxides cannot be ignored. For example, sulfur dioxide is an important air pollutant, and its production and emission need to be strictly controlled. Due to the possible health risks of titanium dioxide nanomaterials, strict protective measures need to be taken during production and use. Waste gas and waste water produced in the production of zinc oxide also need to be properly treated to prevent environmental pollution. By introducing advanced production technology and environmental protection technology, the impact of oxide production on the environment can be effectively reduced and safety can be improved.

Market Prospects

The oxide market has broad prospects. With the development of new material technology and the improvement of environmental protection requirements, the demand for oxides will continue to grow. For example, the demand for high-purity silica in the semiconductor industry continues to increase, and the demand for alumina and lithium oxide in new energy vehicles is also growing rapidly. Because of its excellent performance, the market demand for titanium dioxide is steadily rising. In the future, with the technological progress and the expansion of application fields, the oxide market will usher in more opportunities and challenges.

Conclusion

Oxides occupy an important position in the chemical industry, and their properties are diverse and widely used. Through reasonable production technology and storage methods, oxide resources can be effectively used to meet the needs of various industries. It is necessary to pay attention to environmental protection and safety issues and promote sustainable development. With the progress of science and technology and the change of market demand, the oxide industry will continue to innovate and contribute to economic development and social progress.