What Is Zinc Nitrate?
Zinc nitrate is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula Zn(NO3)2. It commonly exists as a hexahydrate (Zn(NO3)2·6H2O) and less frequently as an anhydrous form or a tetrahydrate (Zn(NO3)2·4H2O).
The CAS registry numbers are as follows: anhydrous form 7779-88-6, tetrahydrate form 9154-63-3, and hexahydrate form 10196-18-6.
Uses of Zinc Nitrate
Zinc nitrate is used in various applications, including as a raw material in pharmaceuticals, a mordant in dyeing processes, and a catalyst in resin processing. It also serves as an analytical reagent, a metal surface treatment agent, and in rechargeable batteries. While zinc nitrate is nonflammable, it can cause combustible materials to ignite and is hazardous to human health.
Properties of Zinc Nitrate
1. Basic Information on Zinc Nitrate (Anhydrous)
The anhydrous form of zinc nitrate has a molecular weight of 189.36, melts at 110°C, and appears as colorless crystals at room temperature. It reacts violently with flammable substances, metal sulfides, and reducing agents, and is deliquescent.
2. Basic Information on Zinc Nitrate (Hexahydrate)
The hexahydrate form has a molecular weight of 297.49, a melting point of 36.4°C, a decomposition boiling point of 105°C, and appears as colorless flaky crystals at room temperature. It is highly soluble in water and ethanol but not in ether, with a water solubility of 184.3g/100mL at 20°C, and a density of 2.065g/mL.
Types of Zinc Nitrate
Zinc nitrate is primarily sold as a hexahydrate for both research and industrial use.
1. Reagent Products for Research and Development
For research and development, zinc nitrate is available in convenient sizes such as 10g, 25g, and 500g, often requiring refrigerated storage. It is used in methods like plasma emission spectrometry and atomic absorption spectrometry to quantify impurity metal ions.
2. Industrial Chemicals
As an industrial chemical, it is supplied in larger quantities, such as 20 kg PE bags and 25 kg paper bags, and is available in both solution and crystalline forms. Its versatility as an analytical reagent, metal surface treatment agent, catalyst in resin processing, and mordant makes it widely available from several manufacturers.
Other Information on Zinc Nitrate
1. Synthesis of Zinc Nitrate
Zinc nitrate can be synthesized by reacting zinc or zinc oxide with nitric acid. The anhydrous form can also be produced by reacting zinc chloride with nitrogen dioxide.
2. Hazards of Zinc Nitrate and Regulatory Information
Although nonflammable, zinc nitrate is an oxidizing agent that can contribute to fires. Hazardous decomposition products include nitrogen oxides and zinc oxides. Ingestion can lead to symptoms like stomach cramps and cyanosis. It may also cause skin and eye irritation, and respiratory irritation. Zinc nitrate is regulated under various laws due to its hazards. Proper handling in compliance with these regulations is essential.