Zinc Stearate

Product Introduction

Zinc Stearate is an essential additive in the paints and coatings industry, known for its excellent lubricating and dispersing properties. Kivi Chemicals supplies this industrial-grade chemical for various applications, including plastics, rubber, and personal care products. Its unique characteristics help improve the flow and leveling of coatings, making it a preferred choice for manufacturers across East Africa. The chemical is particularly valued for its ability to enhance the stability and performance of formulations, ensuring a high-quality finish in end products. By sourcing Zinc Stearate from Kivi Chemicals, buyers benefit from a reliable supply of a product that meets industry standards and regulatory compliance, ensuring optimal results in their manufacturing processes.

Detailed Product Overview

Zinc Stearate, with the chemical formula C36H70O4Zn, is a white powder known for its multifunctional role in industrial applications. As an additive, it is primarily utilized in paints and coatings, where it functions as a lubricant and release agent. This chemical is characterized by its excellent thermal stability, maintaining integrity under typical processing conditions with a melting point between 120-130 °C. Its insolubility in water makes it particularly advantageous for applications requiring moisture resistance, as it helps maintain the integrity of coatings even in humid environments. The compatibility of Zinc Stearate with various resins and polymers further enhances its utility across different industrial formulations. In industrial settings, Zinc Stearate is widely used in paints and coatings, plastics, polymers, rubber industries, and even cosmetics. In paints and coatings, it improves the flow and leveling characteristics, ensuring a smooth application and superior finish. In the rubber industry, it enhances tensile strength and flexibility, contributing to the durability of rubber products. Its role in plastics and polymers includes acting as a processing aid, improving mold release and reducing friction. The chemical’s versatility is further highlighted by its application in cosmetics, where it serves as a texture enhancer and anti-caking agent, thereby improving the overall quality of the final product. When considering Zinc Stearate for industrial use, it is essential to verify its specifications to ensure it meets the desired quality standards. The industrial grade offered by Kivi Chemicals is suitable for general applications, including paints and coatings. Buyers should check for a zinc content of 13.0-14.5% and a bulk density of 0.4-0.6 g/cm³, which are critical for maintaining product consistency. The moisture content should not exceed 0.5%, and the pH of a 5% solution should fall within the range of 6.0-8.0. These parameters are crucial for ensuring the chemical's performance and compatibility with other materials in the formulation. Proper handling and storage of Zinc Stearate are vital to preserving its quality and effectiveness. It should be stored at temperatures between 15-25 °C in a dry environment to prevent moisture absorption, which could compromise its performance. The product is typically supplied in 20 kg polypropylene bags, providing adequate protection during transportation and storage. As a flammable material, it should be handled with care, and users are advised to consult the material safety data sheet (MSDS) for detailed handling precautions. Kivi Chemicals ensures a reliable supply chain, catering to the needs of manufacturers across Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and the broader East African market.

Applications & Uses

Benefits & Advantages

Zinc Stearate offers numerous benefits for manufacturers in the East African region. Its ability to improve the flow and leveling of paints and coatings results in a superior finish, enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the final products. By acting as a lubricant, it reduces wear and tear on processing equipment, leading to lower maintenance costs and increased production efficiency. Additionally, the use of Zinc Stearate in rubber formulations enhances the tensile strength and flexibility of the final products, making them more durable and suitable for various applications. Kivi Chemicals ensures that their Zinc Stearate meets high industry standards, allowing buyers to trust in the quality and performance of the product. The competitive pricing and reliable supply from Kivi Chemicals further enhance its attractiveness to manufacturers looking to optimize their production processes.

Packaging & Bulk Supply

Kivi Chemicals offers Zinc Stearate in 20 kg polypropylene bags, suitable for both small-scale and large-scale manufacturing operations. This packaging option ensures that the product remains protected from moisture and contamination during storage and transportation. Bulk supply options are also available for larger manufacturers seeking to optimize their procurement processes.

Storage & Handling

Zinc Stearate should be stored in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and moisture. The recommended storage temperature is between 15-25 °C. It is essential to keep the bags sealed when not in use to prevent moisture absorption, which could affect the product's performance. When handling Zinc Stearate, it is advisable to wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), including gloves and masks, to minimize exposure to dust. Proper ventilation is also recommended in the storage area to ensure a safe working environment.

External References & Further Reading

• PubChem Compound Summary