Zinc oxide in rubber and tyres
Zinc oxide is the standard vulcanisation activator in sulphur-cured rubber. Its reactivity, not its particle size, is what determines cure behaviour — which is why surface area and lot consistency matter more here than in cosmetic applications.
Function in the compound
Zinc oxide activates the sulphur vulcanisation system, typically with stearic acid, forming the zinc soap that accelerates crosslinking. It also acts as a reinforcing filler, contributes to heat resistance, and improves adhesion in tyre compounds.
What moves the cure curve
Reactivity depends on surface area and crystal characteristics. A grade with the same headline ZnO percentage but different surface area will change scorch time and cure rate. This is where lot-to-lot consistency actually bites: a supplier whose specification drifts forces the compounder to re-tune every batch.
What we supply
An industrial grade specified on ZnO content, surface area, and loss on ignition, with per-lot analysis. This grade is not intended for cosmetic application.
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 |
| Specific surface area | Grade-specific |
| Loss on ignition | Grade-specific |
| Particle size | Grade-specific |
| Moisture | Grade-specific |
| Pb / Cd / As limits | Grade-specific |
Full specification is issued with the technical data sheet.Request the TDS for the grade you are evaluating.