Zinc stearate

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Zinc stearate
Image:Zinc stearate.jpg
General
Other names	zinc distearate
Molecular formula	Zn(C₁₅H₃₅O₂)₂
Molar mass	632.2 g/mol
Appearance	soft, white powder
CAS number	[557-05-1]
Properties
Density and phase	1.095 g/cm³, solid
Solubility in water	insoluble
Solubility in alcohol	insoluble
Solubility in ether	insoluble
Solubility in benzene	slightly soluble
Melting point	120-130°C
Boiling point	decomposes
Flash point	277°C
Autoignition temperature	420°C
Hazards
EU classification	not listed
NFPA 704	1 0 0
Except where noted otherwise, data are given for materials in their standard state (at 25 °C, 100 kPa) Infobox disclaimer and references

Zinc stearate (Zn(C₁₈ H₃₅ O₂)₂) is a chemical compound. Zinc stearate is insoluble in polar solvents, but well soluble in aromatic compounds and chlorinated hydrocarbons when heated. Zinc Stearate is a zinc soap that repels water, insoluble in alcohol, ether, soluble in benzene. It is the most powerful mold release agent among all metal soaps. It contains no electrolyte and has hydrophobic effect. Its main application areas are the plastics and rubber industry where they are used as releasing agents and lubricants which can be easily incorporated.

[edit] Applications

As a synergic stabilizer for Ba/Cd and Pb stabilizer systems.
As a gloss imparting agent in paint industry.
As a metal release agent in rubber, polyurethane and polyester processing system.
As a chief ingredient in "fanning powder", used by magicians performing card manipulation to decrease the friction between the cards.