Zinc carbonate

Chemical properties

White, crystalline powder. Evolves carbon dioxide at 300C. Soluble in acids, alkalies, and ammonium salt solutions; insoluble in water.

Chemical properties

Smithsonite is zinc carbonate, ZnCO3, a hexagonal mineral with a rhombohedral cleavage. It is a brittle mineral; hardness, 4–4.5; specific gravity, 4.3–4.5; luster, vitreous to dull; color, usually white, but may be colored yellowish or brownish or perhaps blue or green due to impurities. It is translucent to opaque.

The Uses of Zinc carbonate

Zinc Carbonate is used in method for producing Zinc Carbonate using electric furnace dust.

The Uses of Zinc carbonate

Antiseptic (topical); astringent.

Definition

ChEBI: Zinc carbonate is an organooxygen compound.

General Description

A white crystalline solid or powder that is insoluble in water. The primary hazard is the threat posed to the environment. Immediate steps should be taken to limit its spread to the environment. Used in pharmaceuticals, to make other zinc compounds, as a feed additive.

Reactivity Profile

Zinc carbonate reacts with acids to generate carbon dioxide and a zinc-containing solution. Dissolves in bases and in solutions of ammonium salts.

Health Hazard

INHALATION OF DUST OR FUMES: Dry throat, cough and chest discomfort. Fever and sweating. SKIN: Astringent. INGESTION: May cause nausea and vomiting.

Fire Hazard

Behavior in Fire: Could decompose to liberate CO 2

Flammability and Explosibility

Not classified

Safety Profile

An experimental teratogen. When heated to decomposition it emits toxic fumes of CO and Zn.