Jul 10 2013
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Image Credits: Kateryna Kon/shutterstock.com
Nanotechnology research has gained momentum in recent years providing innovative solutions in the field of biomedicine, materials science, optics and electronics. Essentially, nanoparticles are a varied form of basic elements, which are derived as a result of a change to the atomic and molecular properties of the required elements. This article provides further detail on the properties and applications of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO).
ZnO nanopowders are available as powders and dispersions. They exhibit antibacterial, anti-corrosive, antifungal and UV filtering properties. Zinc is a Block D, Period 4 element, while Oxygen is a Block P, Period 2 element. Some of the synonyms used for ZnOs are oxydatum, zinci oxicum, permanent white, ketozinc and oxozinc.
Chemical Properties
Chemical Data
|
| Chemical symbol |
ZnO |
| CAS No |
1314-13-2 |
| Group |
Zinc 12
Oxygen 16 |
| Electronic configuration |
Zinc [Ar] 3d10 4s2
Oxygen [He] 2s2 2p4 |
Chemical Composition
|
Element
|
Content (%)
|
| Zinc |
80.34 |
| Oxygen |
19.6 |
Physical Properties
Properties
|
Metric
|
Imperial
|
| Density |
5600 kg/m3 |
0.202 lb/in3 |
| Molar Mass |
81.40 g/mol |
- |
Thermal Properties
Properties
|
Metric
|
Imperial
|
| Melting point |
1975°C |
3587°F |
| Boiling point |
2360°C |
4280°F |
Applications
Applications of ZNOs include the manufacture of rubber and cigarette filters; calamine lotion and creams and ointments used to treat skin diseases; an additive in the manufacture of concrete and ceramics; food products such as breakfast cereals; and as a coating agent in various paints.
This article was updated on the 11th September, 2019.