Zinc oxide coatings prevent corrosion on various materials, including galvanized iron, steel, ceramics, glass, and plastics. They can also improve the durability and resistance of objects to weathering, sunlight, and high temperatures. Zinc oxide is used in many paint formulas, rubber manufacturing, and bonding rubber to brass.
A zinc oxide coating is a solution containing zinc oxide, which is an inorganic compound, generally as a means of preventing corrosion. An inorganic compound is a chemical mixture that contains no carbon or organic chemicals. Zinc oxide paints or coatings are especially useful for applying to galvanized iron because a zinc oxide coating can remain on this type of material for very long periods of time. This can be seen with objects that are outdoors, such as nails or screws. Zinc oxide is a component of many other materials and tools, such as concrete, rubber and many household items.
Many paint formulas call for the addition of zinc oxide as an ingredient, especially exterior paints that are used outdoors and constantly exposed to the elements. This type of zinc oxide overcoat paint can also aid in the absorption of sunlight, helping to prevent premature cracking or peeling of the painted surface. Interior paints can also benefit from the addition of zinc oxide, and white enamels often contain this compound to prevent yellowing.
Metal objects or structures often have a zinc oxide coating. Steel benefits as the coating can last a long time, protecting it from external conditions. Additionally, zinc oxide coatings can be used on steel that is underwater, such as a freshwater tank for fish or other marine life. Even very large steel objects that are underwater, such as those found in dams, can benefit from a zinc oxide coating.
Even common household items benefit from having a zinc oxide coating. Ceramic or glass items may be coated with such a coating to reduce thermal expansion so that a plate, cup, or similar object won’t break easily when exposed to high temperatures. Zinc oxide coatings are also often found on ceramics as a protective glaze, and items made from plastics can receive a zinc oxide coating to improve tensile strength, heat resistance, and resistance to weathering and sunlight of the object.
Zinc Oxide has a very extensive list of uses and applications beyond being used as a direct coating. An example is in the rubber manufacturing process. Zinc oxide aids in rubber reinforcement and is used as a bright white pigmentation. Additionally, zinc oxide is also used to attach rubber to brass items as it can interact with another compound, copper oxide. The two produce a zinc-copper salt and form a strong bond, holding the rubber to the brass.
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