Exploring Various Methods of Zinc Oxide Manufacturing

The process of producing zinc oxide is not easy. This process produces zinc oxide, a multifunctional white powder. Zinc oxide manufacturing is useful in the manufacturing of rubber tires, pharmaceuticals, ceramics, and cosmetics. Each process involves several steps. For example, heating a zinc-carbon composite produces zinc vapor. The vapor then reacts with oxygen in the air to produce zinc oxide.

Zinc Oxide Manufacturing Method

Several methods are used to produce zinc oxide, as mentioned previously. However, these methods serve different purposes. This allows for the separation of zinc powder characteristics according to its intended use.

Some commonly used methods include:

Direct Method

The first method for producing zinc oxide is the direct method. This method focuses on cost efficiency by using a wider variety of raw materials. The raw materials are processed by mixing zinc ore with zinc residue mixed with carbon material. This process involves burning vaporized zinc mixed with zinc ore, producing zinc oxide fumes. Next, a cooling process produces zinc particles, which undergo a purification process to achieve the desired quality and characteristics. Due to its relatively affordable cost, it is widely used for large-scale production.

Wet Chemical Process

This method is commonly known as wet precipitation. The initial process precipitates from soluble zinc salts, forming zinc hydroxide. Afterward, the process involves heating to convert it to zinc oxide. The characteristics of each method vary. Wet chemical processes produce particles useful in the manufacture of coatings or rubber. This method involves the precipitation of zinc carbonate. This demonstrates that the process of producing zinc oxide is not easy.

This process uses high temperatures to convert the precipitate into oxidized zinc powder. The advantage of this process is that it allows for tight control of particle size and surface area. This method is useful in gas sensor technology, transparent sunscreens, and touchscreens.

Indirect Process

The next method for producing zinc oxide is the indirect process, also known as the French process. Zinc is melted by evaporation at a temperature of around 1100 degrees Celsius. The vapor reacts with air to form zinc oxide. This process produces a much higher purity of zinc oxide and is highly effective. 

The application of zinc material plays a role in the pharmaceutical, cosmetics and ceramics industries. Zinc oxide has many functions, ranging from the manufacturing of cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and other sensitive electrolyte components.

Zinc oxide manufacturing into a fine white powder using several methods. Each method has its own specific manufacturing method and application characteristics.