Zinc phosphate - Zn3(PO4)2

Table of Contents

What is Zinc phosphate?

Zinc phosphate is an inorganic compound made up of phosphorous, oxygen and zinc with the formula Zn3(PO4)2. Zinc phosphate is typically used for permanent cementation in dentistry. Zinc phosphate is a white powder which is commonly used as a corrosion inhibitor when applied to metallic surfaces.

Trizinc phosphate coats better on a crystalline structure when compared to a bare metal. Therefore, a seeding agent such as sodium pyrophosphate is frequently used as a pre-treatment.

Zinc phosphate Occurrence

Some of the different forms of Zinc orthophosphate are minerals such as hopeite and parahopeite. One similar mineral is tarbuttite, Zn2(PO4)(OH).

It originates from zinc phosphate cement. This cement is commonly used as a base for dental restorations. It is used for cementation of crowns, inlays, bridges, as a temporary restoration, and orthodontic appliances. It is made by mixing magnesium oxide and zinc oxide powders with a liquid which consists of phosphoric acid, buffers, and water.

Zinc phosphate structure – Zn3(PO4)2

 

zinc phosphate 500x500 1Zinc phosphate structure

Properties of Zinc phosphate – Zn3(PO4)2

Zn3(PO4)2 Zinc phosphate
Molecular weight of Zn3(PO4)2 386.11 g/mol
Density of Zinc phosphate 3.998 g/cm3
Melting point of Zinc phosphate 900 °C
Flash point of Zinc phosphate Non-flammable

Zn3(PO4)2 Uses

  • Zinc phosphate is used in dentistry.
  • Used as a plating agent as well as a surface treating agent.
  • Used in the making of rubber products.
  • Used as an anti-scaling agent.
  • Used in the manufacturing of dyes.
  • Used as an additive in paints.
  • Used as a corrosion inhibitor.
  • Used in water treatment products.

Learn more about the Structure, physical and chemical properties of Zn3(PO4)2 from the experts at BYJU’S.

Test Your Knowledge On Zinc Phosphate!

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