Physical Properties
- Appearance: White crystalline powder
- Solubility: Insoluble in water, soluble in acids and ammonium hydroxide
Chemical Properties
Zinc phosphate is a white powder that is insoluble in water but soluble in acids and ammonium hydroxide. It is stable under normal conditions and decomposes at high temperatures to release acrid smoke and fumes.
Preparation
Zinc phosphate is typically synthesized by reacting zinc oxide (ZnO) with phosphoric acid (H₃PO₄) in an aqueous medium. The reaction is as follows: 2H3PO4+3ZnO→Zn3(PO4)2+3H2O
Uses
- Dentistry: Used as a dental cement for restorations, crowns, inlays, bridges, and temporary fillings.
- Corrosion Inhibition: Applied as a primer pigment or surface treatment for steel, aluminum, and other metals to prevent corrosion.
- Paints and Coatings: Used as a non-toxic inhibitive pigment in anti-corrosive paints.
- Rubber and Plastics: Used as an additive to improve stability and anti-scaling properties.
- Water Treatment: Used in products designed to inhibit corrosion in water systems.
Safety
Zinc phosphate is moderately toxic by intraperitoneal route, with an LD50 value of 552 mg/kg in mice. It is classified as non-flammable and has a low risk of environmental impact when used properly.