Introduction

In the broad field of chemistry, zinc sulfate has shown its extraordinary charm and value with its unique properties and wide application fields. As an important inorganic compound, it not only plays an important role in industrial production but also plays an indispensable role in agriculture, medicine, and other fields. This paper aims to comprehensively review the properties, preparation methods, application fields and future development trends of zinc sulfate, to provide readers with a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of zinc sulfate.¹

The basic properties

Zinc sulfate (ZnSO?), colorless or white crystals, particles, or powders, is a chemical that has a metallic taste. It is easily soluble in water, aqueous solution is acidic and slightly soluble in ethanol and glycerol. Zinc sulfate has a melting point of 100℃, a density of 1.957g/cm3 (25℃), and is odorless and astringent. In addition, it also has good stability and safety, and under normal conditions of use will not cause serious health problems.²

Preparation method

There are many ways to prepare zinc sulfate, including direct reaction, oxidation reaction, solution reaction, hydrate reaction, and chlorination reaction. Each of these methods has its advantages and disadvantages and is suitable for different production needs. Among them, the direct reaction method is to react zinc powder with concentrated sulfuric acid to produce ZnSO₄, which is simple and low cost, but the reaction product has more impurities; The oxidation reaction method is to react zinc powder with concentrated nitric acid to produce zinc nitrate, and then react with sodium hydroxide to produce zinc hydroxide, and finally acidize with sulfuric acid to obtain ZnSO₄. The product purity of this method is high, but the operation is complicated and the cost is high.³

Application field

Industrial field

Zinc sulfate is widely used in industry. It is the main raw material for the manufacture of zinc barium white and zinc salt and can be used to produce pigments, rubber, plastics, and other chemical products. It can also be used as an electrolyte in the electroplating and electrolysis industries, as well as a preservative for wood and leather. In the textile industry, ZnSO₄ is used as a mordant to help dyes adhere better to fibers. In the electroplating industry, ZnSO₄ electrolytes can provide a stable current and voltage to ensure the uniformity and quality of the plating.⁴

Agricultural field

Zinc sulfate is also important for agricultural applications. As a trace element fertilizer, it can provide the necessary zinc element for crops and promote the growth and development of crops. Especially in some zinc-deficient areas, increased application of zinc fertilizers such as ZnSO₄ can significantly improve crop yield and quality. In addition, ZnSO₄ can also be used to prevent disease in fruit tree nurseries and protect plant health.⁵

Medical field

In the field of medicine, zinc sulfate also has a certain application value. Oral ZnSO₄ can correct zinc deficiency and restore the function of the enzyme system. External use of ZnSO₄ has the effect of astringent antisepsis and can be used to treat skin inflammation, ulcers, and other diseases. In addition, ZnSO₄ can also be used as a food additive and feed additive to provide the necessary zinc element to animals.

Future Development Trend

With the continuous progress of science and technology and people's increasing attention to environmental protection, health, and other issues, the application field and preparation method of zinc sulfate will also face new challenges and opportunities. In the future, the development trend of zinc sulfate is mainly reflected in the following aspects:

Environmentally friendly production:

In the production process of zinc sulfate, attention is paid to reducing the discharge of pollutants and the treatment of waste to achieve green and environmentally friendly production methods.

High purity preparation: With the continuous expansion of application fields and the improvement of demand, the purity requirements of ZnSO₄ are becoming higher and higher. Therefore, the study of high-efficiency and low-cost preparation of high-purity ZnSO₄ will become an important direction in the future.

Diversified applications:

In addition to the traditional industrial, agricultural, and pharmaceutical fields, zinc sulfate in the field of new energy, environmental protection materials and other applications will gradually expand. For example, ZnSO₄ can be used to prepare new energy materials such as solar cells and lithium-ion batteries; It can also be used as an additive for environmentally friendly materials to improve the performance and environmental adaptability of materials.

Individual needs:

According to the specific needs of different industries and fields, the research of customized and personalized ZnSO₄ products and solutions will become the future development trend.

Conclusion

As a multifunctional inorganic compound, zinc sulfate plays an important role in industry, agriculture, medicine, and other fields. Through an in-depth understanding and analysis of its properties, preparation methods, application fields,  and future development trends, we can better understand and apply this magical chemical substance. It is believed that in future development, ZnSO₄ will continue to make greater contributions to the progress and development of human society.