Zinc Sulphate Heptahydrate

Brief Overview

Zinc Sulphate Heptahydrate occurs in nature as the mineral goslarite. It is soluble in water, and is generally immediately available in most volumes. Zinc Sulphate Heptahydrate belongs to the class of inorganic compounds, transition metal sulfates. These are inorganic compounds wherein the largest oxoanion is sulfate, and the heaviest atom not in an oxoanion is a transition metal. Zinc sulfate heptahydrate is an extremely strong acidic compound based on its acid dissociation constant used to describe the acidity of a particular molecule (pKa). Zinc sulfate heptahydrate is a potentially toxic compound.

Manufacturing Process

Zinc Sulphate Heptahydrate is produced by reacting zinc carbonate with dilute sulfuric acid.

ZnCO₃ + H₂SO₄ + 6 H₂O → ZnSO₄·7 H₂O + CO₂

Agricultural Industry

• Used in fertilizers and agricultural sprays to supplement zinc in plants

• Prevents moss growth on roots

• Acts as a supplement in animal feeds

Pharmaceutical Industry

• Used in oral rehydration therapy, in toothpaste, as a dietary supplement, and for intravenous feeding

• Treats diarrhea or stomach issues related to zinc deficiency

Fiber Industry

• Used in the production of rayon, a synthetic fiber

Printing Industry

• Used in the production of lithopone, a white pigment powder

Leather Industry

• Preserves leather and skins

Distilling Industry

• Increases the alcohol yield of the yeast in the brewing process