Technical Description:
Zinc Micron Powder (Zn, 99.9%, 3 µm, Metal Basis) is a high-purity fine powder composed of zinc (Zn) with a purity of 99.9%. The powder has an average particle size of 3 micrometers (µm), which makes it a fine powder with a high surface area, making it suitable for applications that require quick reactivity or a high surface-to-volume ratio. Zinc is a versatile metal known for its corrosion resistance, low melting point, and high thermal and electrical conductivity, which makes it useful across various industries.
- Chemical Composition:
- Zinc (Zn) content: 99.9%, indicating high purity with minimal contamination from other metals or elements. This level of purity is essential for applications where material consistency and reliability are critical, such as in electronics and high-performance coatings.
- Particle Size:
- The powder has an average particle size of 3 µm, which is fine and ensures a large surface area, ideal for processes such as sintering, powder metallurgy, and additive manufacturing. The fine size makes the powder highly reactive, which is beneficial for various chemical and industrial applications.
- Shape:
- The powder particles are typically irregular in shape, which is common for micron-sized powders. However, depending on the production method, the particles may also have slightly spherical characteristics. Irregularly shaped particles generally offer better mechanical interlocking in sintering processes, contributing to denser and stronger components.
- Purity:
- With 99.9% purity, the powder is suitable for high-precision applications where the presence of impurities could negatively affect the material’s performance, such as in electronics, battery manufacturing, and high-performance coatings.
Applications:
- Powder Metallurgy:
- Zinc powder is used in powder metallurgy to produce sintered parts like gears, bearings, and other metallic components that require strength, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance. The fine 3 µm powder ensures a uniform density and uniform mechanical properties in sintered parts used in automotive, aerospace, and industrial applications.
- Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing):
- Zinc powder is suitable for additive manufacturing technologies such as Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) and Electron Beam Melting (EBM). The fine particle size makes it ideal for creating complex geometries in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and electronics, where lightweight and high-strength parts are needed. Zinc-based materials can also be used to create metal matrix composites.
- Coatings and Galvanization:
- Zinc is widely used in coating applications due to its corrosion resistance. The fine zinc powder is used in galvanization, a process where a zinc coating is applied to steel and iron to protect these metals from rust and corrosion. This process is crucial for outdoor applications and industries such as construction, automotive, and marine.
- Batteries:
- Zinc is used in the production of batteries, particularly zinc-carbon batteries and alkaline batteries. The 3 µm zinc powder is incorporated into electrodes and cathodes, providing excellent electrical conductivity and performance in various types of energy storage systems. Additionally, zinc-based materials are being researched for use in next-generation zinc-air and zinc-ion batteries, which promise improved energy density and sustainability.
- Pharmaceutical and Cosmetics:
- Zinc is an important element in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries due to its beneficial properties, such as being an essential trace element and having anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Zinc powder is used in the formulation of ointments, creams, and lotions. It is often used in sunscreens, wound healing creams, and diaper rash creams due to its skin-healing and barrier-forming properties.
- Chemical Reactions and Catalysis:
- Zinc powder is used as a reducing agent in various chemical reactions. It is widely employed in organic synthesis, where it helps reduce compounds to desired forms. Zinc is used in the reduction of carbonyl compounds and other organic reactions in the production of chemicals like pharmaceuticals, dyes, and flavors. The fine 3 µm powder allows for faster and more efficient reactions.
- Welding and Soldering:
- Zinc powder is used in the production of soldering materials and as a flux in welding applications. It helps improve the flowability of molten metal and ensures stronger, more durable joints in metalworking processes. Zinc-based solder is used to join electrical components, particularly in electronics, where it is required for creating stable, long-lasting connections.
- Flame Retardant Applications:
- Zinc oxide, derived from zinc powder, is used in various flame retardant applications due to its ability to absorb heat and release it slowly. Zinc oxide is often used in rubber and plastics to increase their heat resistance, durability, and to reduce fire risks. The fine zinc powder plays a role in enhancing these properties when used in these industries.
- Paints and Pigments:
- Zinc powder is used in paints and pigments, particularly in creating anti-corrosion coatings for metals and other surfaces. Zinc-rich paints are used in outdoor and marine environments to protect steel and iron from rust and corrosion. The fine zinc powder helps form a protective layer that adheres to surfaces and offers long-lasting durability.
- Hydrogen Production:
- Zinc powder has been explored for use in hydrogen production through zinc-based thermochemical cycles. Zinc can be used to split water molecules in solar-driven hydrogen production systems. This technology promises a clean and sustainable method for producing hydrogen fuel, making zinc powder valuable for renewable energy applications.
- Electronics Manufacturing:
- Zinc powder is used in electronics manufacturing for creating capacitors, resistors, and other components. Its conductive properties and resistance to corrosion make it ideal for creating high-quality, durable components used in various consumer electronics and industrial equipment.
Summary of Benefits:
- High Purity: The 99.9% purity ensures minimal contamination, making the powder ideal for high-performance applications in electronics, coatings, and medical products.
- Fine Particle Size (3 µm): The fine 3 µm particle size provides a high surface area, which increases reactivity and performance in applications like chemical reactions, sintering, and energy storage.
- Versatility: The powder is highly versatile, with applications across various industries such as electronics, battery technology, pharmaceuticals, coatings, and welding.
- Flowability: The fine particles allow for improved flowability and packing density, which makes it suitable for processes like additive manufacturing and powder metallurgy.
Conclusion:
Zinc Micron Powder (99.9%, 3 µm) is a high-performance material that offers excellent properties such as high purity, corrosion resistance, and good flowability. Its fine particle size makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, from battery manufacturing and chemical synthesis to coatings, pharmaceuticals, and electronics. The powder’s versatility, combined with its high reactivity and performance, ensures its critical role in producing durable, high-quality components in diverse industries.
