زینک سولفات هپتاهیدراته

Zinc sulfate heptahydrate is a colorless, crystalline solid commonly used in agriculture, medicine, and chemical industries. It is the hydrated form of zinc sulfate and is valued for its solubility in water and its role as a source of zinc in various applications.

🏭⚗️ Production
Zinc sulfate heptahydrate is produced by reacting zinc metal or zinc oxide with sulfuric acid, followed by crystallization from aqueous solution. The resulting compound forms transparent crystals containing seven molecules of water per formula unit. It is commercially manufactured under controlled conditions to ensure high purity for industrial and pharmaceutical use.

🔬 Properties
The chemical formula of zinc sulfate heptahydrate is ZnSO₄·7H₂O, with a molar mass of approximately 287.54 g/mol. It appears as colorless or white crystals that are soluble in water and slightly soluble in alcohol. It has a melting point of about 100 °C, where it begins to lose water of crystallization. The compound is stable under normal conditions but should be kept in a dry environment, as it can effloresce in air. It is moderately acidic in aqueous solution.

🧪 Applications
Zinc sulfate heptahydrate is widely used as a dietary zinc supplement in animal feed and fertilizers to prevent zinc deficiency. In medicine, it is used to treat zinc deficiency in humans and as an astringent in eye drops and topical solutions. In industry, it serves as a mordant in dyeing, a preservative for leather and skins, and as a component in electrolytes for zinc plating. It is also used in laboratory settings for chemical analysis and as a reagent.

⚠️ Safety
Zinc sulfate heptahydrate is generally considered safe in controlled quantities but may cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and gastrointestinal tract upon exposure. Ingestion of large amounts can lead to nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain. Dust may cause respiratory irritation if inhaled. Protective gloves, goggles, and proper ventilation are recommended when handling the substance. It should be stored in a cool, dry place away from incompatible materials such as strong bases and oxidizers.