Zirconium sulphate

Chemical properties

white crystal(s) [STR93]

Physical properties

Anhydrous sulfate is a microcrystalline hygroscopic solid; density 3.22 g/cm3; decomposes at 410°C; soluble in water.
The tetrahydrate, Zr(SO₄)₂?4H₂O, is a white crystalline solid; orthorhombic crystals; loses three molecules of water between 100 and 150°C; becomes anhydrous at 380°C; soluble in water, 52.5 g/100g solution; the solution deposits a solid on standing; the aqueous solution is strongly acidic, decomposed by bases or on heating.

The Uses of Zirconium sulphate

Zirconium sulfate [Zr(SO4)2] is an ingredient in lubricants that do not disintegrate at hightemperatures. It is also used for tanning leather to make it white and as a chemical reagent and catalyst in chemical laboratories.

Preparation

Zirconium sulfate is prepared by the action of sulfuric acid on zirconium hydroxide: Zr(OH)₄ + 2H₂SO₄ → Zr(SO₄)₂ + 4H₂O
Also, it is prepared by treating zirconyl chloride with hot concentrated sulfuric acid: ZrOCl₂ + 2H₂SO₄ → Zr(SO₄)₂ + H₂O + 2HCl.

General Description

Anhydrous Zirconium sulphate is a colorless microcrystalline solid. Zirconium sulphate is also obtained as a white crystalline tetrahydrate, ZrSO4.4H2O. Both forms are soluble in water and noncombustible. Zirconium sulphate is corrosive to aluminum. Zirconium sulphate is used in chemical analysis, as an additive for lubricants, and for many other uses.

Air & Water Reactions

Water soluble.

Reactivity Profile

Zirconium sulphate is a weak oxidizing agent. Water solutions are acidic and corrosive to aluminum and other metals

Health Hazard

Has only a mild pharmacological action. Inhalation of dust may irritate nose and throat. Contact with eyes or skin causes irritation.

Fire Hazard

Some may burn but none ignite readily. Containers may explode when heated. Some may be transported hot.

Flammability and Explosibility

Non flammable

Safety Profile

Poison by intraperitoneal route. Moderately toxic by ingestion and subcutaneous routes. A corrosive. Experimental reproductive effects. Mutation data reported. When heated to decomposition it emits toxic fumes of SOx. See also SULFATES and ZIRCONIUM COMPOUNDS.