Zinc oxide in coatings
In coatings, zinc oxide contributes UV screening, anti-microbial behaviour, and improved weatherability. Its effect on film integrity and gloss retention is what extended exposure tests measure.
UV protection in a film
Zinc oxide absorbs in the UV region and can reduce the rate at which binder systems degrade under sunlight. In exterior coatings this translates to slower chalking, less colour shift, and improved gloss retention over service life.
Anti-microbial behaviour
Zinc oxide releases zinc ions and generates reactive oxygen species under illumination, which inhibits microbial growth on coated surfaces. This is used in architectural and marine coatings where biological fouling is a maintenance cost.
Dispersion is the constraint
Nano-scale zinc oxide agglomerates readily. Poor dispersion produces both a failed UV shield and visible defects in the film. Coated grades and appropriate dispersion equipment are both required.
Parameters specified per grade
Parameters marked grade-specific are fixed when the grade is defined, and are issued with the technical data sheet.
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| ZnO content | Grade-specific |
| Particle size | Grade-specific |
| Surface treatment | Grade-specific |
| Oil absorption | Grade-specific |
| Moisture | Grade-specific |
Full specification is issued with the technical data sheet.Request the TDS for the grade you are evaluating.