Zirconium stearate

Zirconium stearate is a type of chemical compound that belongs to the class of metal soaps. It is a white, powdery substance that is insoluble in water but soluble in oils and waxes. Zirconium stearate is primarily used as a lubricant, water repellent, and gelling agent in various industries.

Chemical Structure

Zirconium stearate is a complex salt composed of zirconium, a transition metal, and stearic acid, a saturated fatty acid. The chemical formula of zirconium stearate is Zr(C18H35O2)4. The zirconium atom is coordinated to four stearate anions, forming a tetrahedral structure.

Production

Zirconium stearate is typically produced through a reaction between zirconium salts and stearic acid. This process involves the neutralization of stearic acid with a zirconium salt, such as zirconium chloride or zirconium sulfate, in the presence of a base.

Applications

Zirconium stearate has a wide range of applications due to its unique properties. It is commonly used as a lubricant in the plastics industry to prevent sticking during the molding process. It also serves as a water repellent in the production of textiles and paper. In the cosmetics industry, zirconium stearate is used as a gelling agent in the formulation of various products.

Safety

While zirconium stearate is generally considered safe for use in many applications, it can cause irritation if it comes into contact with the skin or eyes. It is recommended to handle this compound with care and use appropriate protective equipment.

See Also

• Zirconium
• Stearic acid
• Metal soaps
• Lubricant
• Water repellent
• Gelling agent