Zinc Carbonate Basic

Zinc Carbonate Basic: Overview, Properties, and Applications

Zinc carbonate basic, also known as basic zinc carbonate or zinc hydroxycarbonate, is an important compound of zinc widely used in industrial, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic formulations. It appears as a white, odorless powder and serves as a precursor for other zinc compounds. Its mild chemical nature and low toxicity make it suitable for a broad range of applications.

Chemical Identity

Chemical Name: Zinc Carbonate Basic
Alternative Names: Basic Zinc Carbonate, Zinc Hydroxycarbonate
Chemical Formula: Typically represented as 2ZnCO₃·3Zn(OH)₂
Molecular Weight: Approx. 546.1 g/mol
Appearance: White or off-white amorphous powder
Solubility: Insoluble in water; soluble in dilute acids with effervescence
pH: Slightly basic in aqueous suspension

Composition and Structure

Zinc carbonate basic is not a single, pure compound but a complex mixture of zinc carbonate and zinc hydroxide. Its structure can vary slightly depending on preparation method, but the general formula reflects a combination of carbonate and hydroxide ligands coordinated to zinc ions. This hybrid structure imparts stability and functional versatility.

Production

Basic zinc carbonate is usually prepared by the precipitation reaction of a soluble zinc salt (like zinc sulfate or zinc chloride) with sodium carbonate or sodium bicarbonate under controlled conditions:

5ZnSO₄ + 5Na₂CO₃ + 5H₂O → ZnCO₃·2Zn(OH)₂ + 5Na₂SO₄ + CO₂↑

The product is filtered, washed, and dried to obtain the basic zinc carbonate powder.

Applications of Zinc Carbonate Basic

1. Pharmaceutical and Nutritional Use
Zinc carbonate basic is used in zinc supplements and pharmaceutical preparations as a source of zinc, an essential trace element. It contributes to immune support, enzymatic activity, and skin health.

2. Rubber Industry
It functions as an activator in rubber vulcanization processes. The basic nature of zinc carbonate supports cross-linking during rubber curing, enhancing elasticity and durability.

3. Cosmetics and Personal Care
Due to its soothing, mild astringent, and antimicrobial properties, it is used in skin care products like calamine creams, diaper rash creams, and face powders.

4. Ceramics and Glass Manufacturing
In the ceramics industry, zinc carbonate basic is used as a glaze ingredient and flux. Upon heating, it decomposes to zinc oxide, which affects the color and texture of the final product.

5. Pigment and Paints
It serves as a white pigment in paints and coatings. Though less common today, it has been used in corrosion-resistant coatings and artist paints.

6. Laboratory Reagent
It is occasionally used in laboratories for academic and industrial research, especially in synthesizing zinc oxide under controlled thermal conditions.

Handling and Storage

Zinc carbonate basic is considered relatively safe but should still be handled with standard precautions.

Storage Tips:

Store in a tightly closed container
Keep in a cool, dry, well-ventilated area
Protect from moisture and incompatible substances (strong acids)

Handling Precautions:

Avoid inhalation of dust; use respiratory protection if needed
Wear gloves, eye protection, and lab coat
Wash hands thoroughly after handling

Safety and Environmental Impact

Health: Generally regarded as low in toxicity; large quantities may cause stomach irritation if ingested
Inhalation: May cause mild respiratory irritation in dusty conditions
Environmental: Non-hazardous; avoid large releases into soil or waterways to prevent ecological imbalance

Conclusion

Zinc carbonate basic is a versatile, multifunctional compound with applications spanning health care, cosmetics, rubber, and ceramics. Its relatively low toxicity, ease of use, and functional properties make it a valuable ingredient in many industries. Whether used as a zinc supplement or a process additive, this compound remains an essential material in both science and manufacturing.

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