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Zinc Sulfate

Updated: 2026-07-21

Overview

Industrial zinc sulfate is an essential zinc salt produced by reacting zinc or zinc oxide with sulfuric acid. The heptahydrate form (ZnSO₄·7H₂O) dominates industrial applications due to its stability and handling characteristics. As a cost-effective zinc source, it meets technical specifications for multiple industries while being safer to handle than zinc chloride. Global production exceeds 2 million tons annually, with major suppliers in China, India, and Western Europe. Industrial grades typically contain 21-23% elemental zinc, distinguishing them from pharmaceutical-grade zinc sulfate which undergoes additional purification processes.

Physical and Chemical Properties

The compound's solubility and stability vary significantly by hydration state. Anhydrous zinc sulfate forms orthorhombic crystals, while the heptahydrate crystallizes in the monoclinic system. All forms decompose at high temperatures to yield zinc oxide and sulfur oxides. Aqueous solutions are acidic (pH ~4.5 for 10% solution) and react with alkalis to form zinc hydroxide precipitates. Industrial material often contains trace impurities like iron, cadmium, or lead depending on the zinc source. The heptahydrate exhibits efflorescence in dry air, gradually losing water to form lower hydrates.

Main Applications

In agriculture, zinc sulfate corrects zinc deficiencies in crops like corn and rice, applied as foliar sprays (0.1-0.5% solution) or soil amendments (5-20 kg/hectare). The fertilizer industry consumes approximately 60% of global production. Water treatment plants utilize it for heavy metal precipitation and microbiological control. The electroplating industry employs zinc sulfate baths for galvanizing, while the textile sector uses it as a mordant. Other applications include animal nutrition (feed additive), wood preservatives, and as a precursor for other zinc chemicals.

Safety and Storage

While not classified as dangerous goods, industrial zinc sulfate requires basic safety precautions due to its irritant properties. Dust control measures are essential during handling to prevent respiratory irritation. Bulk storage should avoid contact with moisture for anhydrous grades or desiccation for hydrated forms. Secondary containment is recommended for liquid storage to prevent environmental contamination. In case of spills, neutralization with sodium carbonate or lime is effective. Personal protective equipment should include dust masks, chemical goggles, and acid-resistant gloves when handling concentrated solutions.

B2B Procurement Guide

Industrial buyers should specify: 1) Hydration level (mono- vs heptahydrate), 2) Zinc content (as Zn or ZnSO₄ basis), 3) Heavy metal limits (especially for agricultural use), and 4) Particle size distribution for powder applications. Reliable suppliers provide certificates of analysis with ICP-MS testing for contaminants. Bulk shipments (25kg bags, 1MT big bags) offer cost advantages over small packaging. For international trade, verify compliance with destination country regulations - for example, EU REACH registration or FDA 21 CFR for feed-grade material.

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