Zinc stearate or "zinc soap" is a zinc salt of stearic acid, a naturally occurring fatty acid. It is a white solid that repels water. Zinc stearate is one of the important ionic surfactants of metal soaps.
Manufacturing Process
Three methods are used to produce zinc distearate:
1) Double Decomposition Method
- generates wastewater
2) Direct Transformation Process
3) Fusion Process
Plastic and Rubber Industry
- used as a lubricant and release or powdering agent
Polymer Industry
- functions as an acid scavenger and processing aid in certain polyolefin applications
Paper Industry
- improves the abrasiveness of sandpapers
Paint and Coatings Industry
- acts as a matting agent
Construction Industry
- powdered zinc stearate is utilized as hydrophobic agents for plasters