For professionals involved in sourcing chemical intermediates, a deep understanding of a compound's properties is crucial for making informed purchasing decisions. Zinc Stearate, a widely used metallic soap, serves not only as a direct additive but also as a key component or intermediate in various chemical syntheses and formulations. As a B2B procurement specialist or R&D scientist, knowing its characteristics will help you identify the right Zinc Stearate supplier for your needs.

Zinc Stearate (CAS 557-05-1) is chemically represented as Zn(C₁₈H₃₅O₂)₂, where stearic acid is a long-chain saturated fatty acid. This molecular structure imparts several key properties. Firstly, it is a hydrophobic compound, meaning it repels water. This characteristic is vital in applications where moisture resistance is required. Its solubility profile is also important; while insoluble in water and ethanol, it dissolves in hot organic solvents like benzene and turpentine. This specific solubility allows for its incorporation into non-polar systems or through heating processes, influencing its use in various chemical reactions and formulations.

The physical form of Zinc Stearate is typically a fine, white, odorless powder. The fineness and particle size distribution are critical parameters, especially when it's used as a dispersant or filler. High-purity grades, often required for more sensitive applications like pharmaceuticals or specialized coatings, will exhibit minimal free acid content and low moisture levels. When sourcing Zinc Stearate as a chemical intermediate, pay close attention to specifications like zinc content (typically 10.3-11.3%), free acid percentage (often ≤0.5%), and volatile content (≤0.5%).

As a chemical intermediate, Zinc Stearate's reactivity or compatibility with other substances is paramount. Its thermal stability, with a melting point around 118-125 °C, is another factor that dictates its processing window. In some contexts, it might be used in the synthesis of other metallic stearates or as a component in catalyst formulations. For buyers looking for a reliable chemical intermediate supplier, verifying the manufacturer's quality control processes and their ability to provide consistent product batches is essential.

The market offers various grades of Zinc Stearate, from technical grades for general industrial use to high-purity grades for specific applications. Understanding your exact requirements – whether it’s for a lubricant, a release agent, a stabilizer, or a precursor in a chemical reaction – will help you pinpoint the correct grade. Many chemical buyers source Zinc Stearate from manufacturers in China, benefiting from competitive pricing and readily available product information. Ensuring that your chosen supplier can provide a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for each batch is standard practice for quality assurance.

In conclusion, sourcing Zinc Stearate as a chemical intermediate requires a thorough understanding of its chemical structure, physical properties, and solubility characteristics. By focusing on purity, thermal stability, particle size, and supplier reliability, you can secure a critical raw material that meets your demanding chemical processing needs. When you need to buy Zinc Stearate, always prioritize specifications that align with your intended application.