CI 77947, a chemical compound, known as zinc oxide, is chemically classified as an inorganic colorant. This pigment is widely used in various industrial and cosmetic applications due to its excellent properties, including high stability, opacity, and non-reactivity.
Chemical Composition and Structure
CI 77947 is an inorganic compound with the chemical formula ZnO. It consists of zinc (Zn) and oxygen (O), forming zinc oxide. This composition gives the pigment its characteristic white color and other valuable properties.
Physical Properties
This pigment typically appears as a fine white powder. It has a high density and excellent covering power. CI 77947 is known for its chemical stability, resistance to light and heat, and inert nature, making it suitable for long-lasting applications. Its opacity and strong tinting strength make it a versatile pigment for various uses.
Chemical Industrial Synthesis Process
- Preparation of reagents. The main raw materials include metallic zinc (Zn) and air or oxygen.
- Melting of zinc. The production of CI 77947 begins with the melting of zinc metal in a high-temperature furnace.
- Oxidation. The molten zinc is vaporized and then oxidized in the presence of air or oxygen at high temperatures. This process transforms the zinc vapor into zinc oxide (ZnO).
- Cooling. The zinc oxide fume is rapidly cooled and collected in a cooling chamber to form fine zinc oxide particles.
- Collection. The zinc oxide particles are collected using filters or electrostatic precipitators.
- Washing. The collected zinc oxide is washed with deionized water to remove any soluble impurities.
- Drying. The washed zinc oxide is dried at controlled temperatures to remove residual moisture and obtain a dry powder.
- Grinding. The dried zinc oxide is ground to obtain a fine and uniform powder. This step may involve the use of ball mills or other grinding machinery.
- Classification. The dried powder is classified to ensure a uniform particle size. This step may involve sieving or the use of air classifiers.
- Stabilization. The CI 77947 powder is stabilized to ensure its stability during transportation and storage, preventing aggregation and degradation.
- Quality control. The CI 77947 undergoes rigorous quality testing to ensure it meets standards for purity, color intensity, and safety. These tests include chemical analysis, spectroscopy, and physical tests to determine particle size and rheological properties.
What it is used for and where
Cosmetics
Restricted cosmetic ingredient as IV/144 a Relevant Item in the Annexes of the European Cosmetics Regulation 1223/2009. Substance or ingredient reported:
- Zinc oxide. Wording of conditions of use and warnings: Not to be used in applications that may lead to exposure of the end-user's lungs by inhalation.
Cosmetics - INCI Functions
- Colorant. This ingredient has the function of colouring the solution in which it is inserted in a temporary, semi-permanent or permanent manner, either alone or in the presence of the complementary components added for colouring.
CI 77947 is used in cosmetic products such as sunscreens, foundations, face powders, and creams due to its high opacity, UV protection, and skin-soothing properties.
Medical
Chemical compound with an antiseptic action. It is also used as an astringent and topical in bandages, creams, ointments, dental cements, and as UV protection.
Pharmaceuticals: Zinc oxide is widely used in pharmaceutical products, such as ointments and creams, for its antiseptic and skin-protective properties.
Industrial Applications
Paints and Coatings: In the paint industry, zinc oxide is used to achieve white shades and enhance UV resistance. Its stability and strong tinting properties make it ideal for both decorative and protective coatings.
Plastics and Polymers: This pigment is employed in the production of plastics and polymers to improve color uniformity, opacity, and UV protection. It is commonly used in products like packaging materials, consumer goods, and outdoor applications.
Ceramics and Glass: CI 77947 is used in the production of ceramics and glass to achieve stable white colors and improve the materials' overall properties. It is particularly valued for its resistance to high-temperature processes.
Inks: The pigment is also used in printing inks to produce bright white colors, ensuring high-quality and durable prints.
Safety
CI 77947 is generally considered safe for use in consumer products when handled following proper safety procedures. It is important to avoid inhalation of the powder and to minimize direct contact with skin and eyes. Recommendations mostly concern inhalation, which is to be avoided, of this substance, but most studies find it to be safe when included in creams and formulated according to established guidelines for cosmetic and pharmaceutical safety (2).
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Molecular Formula ZnO
Molecular Weight
CAS 1314-13-2
EC number 215-222-5
DTXSID7035016
UNII SOI2LOH54Z
Synonyms:
Zinc oxide
Pigment White 4
