Zinc Stearate is formed by combining stearic acid with zinc oxide, the latter of which is an organic white-powder compound that is insoluble in water and odourless. In comparison to other metallic stearates, zinc stearate has a low melting point (120°C) – meaning it spreads very evenly when heated.
Zinc stearate is mainly used in the plastics and rubber industries, where it is used as a lubricant and release or powdering agent.
Zinc stearate functions as an acid scavenger and processing aid in certain polyolefin applications.
In addition, it improves the abrasiveness of sandpapers, and acts as a matting agent in paints and coatings. In construction, powdered zinc stearate is utilized as hydrophobic agents for plasters
Applications