Zinc stearate

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Zinc stearate
Zinc stearate
Other names zinc distearate
Identifiers
CAS number [557-05-1]
Properties
Molecular formula Zn(C18H35O2)2
Molar mass 632.2 g/mol
Appearance soft, white powder
Density 1.095 g/cm³, solid
Melting point

120-130 °C

Boiling point

decomposes

Solubility in water insoluble
Solubility in benzene slightly soluble
Hazards
EU classification not listed
NFPA 704
1
 
 
 
Flash point 277°C
Autoignition
temperature
420°C
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(C18H35O2)2) is a chemical compound. Zinc stearate is a zinc soap that repels water. It is insoluble in polar solvents such as alcohol and ether but soluble in aromatic hydrocarbons eg benzene and chlorinated hydrocarbons when heated. It is the most powerful mold release agent among all metal soaps. It contains no electrolyte and has a hydrophobic effect. Its main application areas are the plastics and rubber industry where it is used as a releasing agent and lubricant 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 die release agent in powder metallurgy.
  • As a chief ingredient in "fanning powder", used by magicians performing card manipulation to decrease the friction between the cards.

[edit] References