[Chemical Knowledge]：The nature, use, upstream and downstream raw materials, storage methods of zinc carbonate, commonly known as zinc carbonate

Zinc Carbonate Properties

Zinc carbonate (ZnCO) is a white powder or crystalline solid, its main form is hydrated zinc carbonate. Zinc carbonate is insoluble in water, but soluble in acid. With a density of about 4.4g/cm³ and a melting point of about 140°C, it has high stability. Zinc carbonate is hygroscopic in the air and decomposes at high temperatures to form zinc oxide and carbon dioxide. Its chemical properties are relatively stable, but it is easy to react to form soluble zinc salts in acidic environment.

Use of zinc carbonate

Zinc carbonate has a wide range of applications in industry and medicine. In industry, zinc carbonate is often used in the manufacture of zinc oxide, which is an important raw material for the production of rubber, ceramics, glass and other materials. Zinc carbonate is also used in the production of catalysts, paints, pigments and cosmetics. In the pharmaceutical field, zinc carbonate is used to make ointments, toothpastes and other care products due to its antibacterial properties. It is also used as a source of zinc in dietary supplements to prevent and treat zinc deficiency.

Zinc carbonate upstream and downstream raw materials

The raw materials for the production of zinc carbonate mainly include zinc ore and sodium carbonate. Zinc ore can be refined to obtain zinc, and then through the reaction with sodium carbonate to generate zinc carbonate. The specific reaction is: ZnSO₂ Na₂ CO₂ → ZnCO₂ Na₂ SO₂. In this process, zinc ore is the upstream raw material of zinc carbonate, and zinc carbonate itself is the intermediate raw material of many chemical products. Downstream products include zinc oxide, zinc salts and various zinc-containing compounds, which play their respective roles in different areas.

Zinc carbonate production process

The production process of zinc carbonate mainly includes wet and dry processes. The wet process is mainly carried out by solution reaction at a lower temperature, which can effectively control the reaction conditions and product purity. The dry process, on the other hand, decomposes the zinc salt by direct heating at high temperatures, which has the advantage of high production efficiency. No matter which process is used, the purity and particle size distribution of the product are the key indicators that need to be strictly controlled in the production process to ensure that the quality of zinc carbonate meets the requirements of use.

Zinc Carbonate Market Demand

The global zinc carbonate market demand is growing steadily, mainly driven by increased demand from the rubber industry, ceramic industry, and pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries. With the improvement of people's awareness of environmental protection and health, the demand for high-purity and high-quality zinc carbonate has gradually increased. The rapid development in the field of new energy and electronic materials has also brought new opportunities for the zinc carbonate market.

Zinc carbonate storage method

Zinc carbonate should be stored in a dry, ventilated, cool place, avoid direct sunlight and humid environment. Due to its moisture absorption characteristics, storage should be sealed to prevent moisture caking. Should avoid mixed storage with acidic substances, so as to avoid chemical reaction and affect the quality of products. Reasonable packaging and storage conditions can effectively extend the shelf life of zinc carbonate and ensure its stability and effectiveness during use.

Zinc Carbonate Safety

Zinc carbonate is relatively safe at room temperature, but it should be protected during handling and use to avoid inhaling dust or direct contact with skin and eyes. Long-term exposure to zinc carbonate dust may cause respiratory discomfort, so appropriate protective equipment such as masks and protective gloves should be worn during operation. In case of splashing zinc carbonate into eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water and seek medical attention.

Environmental Impact of Zinc Carbonate

In the process of producing and using zinc carbonate, attention should be paid to environmental protection measures to prevent waste gas, waste water and waste residue from polluting the environment. Especially in the wet production process, the treatment and discharge of waste liquid must meet the requirements of environmental protection regulations. Encourage enterprises to adopt green production processes to reduce energy consumption and pollutant emissions and achieve sustainable development.

future development trend

With technological progress and changes in market demand, the application areas and production processes of zinc carbonate will continue to expand and optimize. In the future, the research and development of high-purity and nano-sized zinc carbonate will become an important direction, and its application potential in the fields of high-tech materials, new energy and medicine is huge. The development of green production technology will also promote the development of zinc carbonate industry to a more efficient and sustainable direction.

Conclusion

As an important chemical raw material, zinc carbonate has broad market prospects because of its excellent physical and chemical properties and wide application fields. By continuously optimizing production processes, improving product quality and focusing on environmental protection measures, the zinc carbonate industry will achieve a higher level of development and innovation in the future.