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Send EmailZirconium Hydroxide, 14475-63-9
ZIRCONIUM HYDROXIDE (ZIRCONIUM(IV) HYDROXIDE)
Chemical Name: Zirconium(IV) Hydroxide
CAS Number: 14475-63-9
EC Number: 238-439-8
UN Number: 3077 (Environmentally hazardous substance)
Customs Tariff Code: 2825.90.90.00
1. PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION AND CHEMICAL IDENTITY
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Name (IUPAC) | Zirconium(IV) hydroxide |
| Other Names | Zirconium Hydroxide, Zirconium(IV) Hydroxide, Zr(OH)₄ |
| CAS Number | 14475-63-9 |
| EC Number (EINECS) | 238-439-8 |
| Molecular Formula | Zr(OH)₄ |
| Molecular Weight | 139.25 g/mol |
| Chemical Class | Inorganic hydroxide / Transition metal hydroxide |
| Appearance | White amorphous powder or gel-like solid |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Crystal Structure | Amorphous / Hydroxide phase |
| Density | ~3.25 g/cm³ |
CHEMICAL STRUCTURE AND DESCRIPTION:
Zirconium Hydroxide (Zr(OH)₄) is the hydroxide salt of zirconium in the +4 oxidation state. It appears as a white, amorphous powder or gel-like solid. It is insoluble in water but readily dissolves in acids. It can be hygroscopic and is stable at room temperature. Zirconium Hydroxide is the most important precursor for zirconia (ZrO₂) production and is widely used in ceramics, catalysts, coating technologies, and nanotechnology.
Structural Features:
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Amorphous structure (gel or powder form)
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Insoluble in water
-
Readily dissolves in acids
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Thermal decomposition yields ZrO₂
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Key precursor for zirconium-based materials
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May be hygroscopic
-
High surface area
2. PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Molecular Formula | Zr(OH)₄ |
| Molecular Weight | 139.25 g/mol |
| Appearance | White amorphous powder or gel |
| Odor | Odorless |
| Density | ~3.25 g/cm³ |
| Melting Point | Not distinct; decomposes to ZrO₂ on heating |
| Decomposition Temperature | ~300-700°C (to ZrO₂) |
| Solubility in Water | Insoluble |
| Solubility in Acids | Soluble |
| Solubility in Alkalis | Amphoteric (soluble in strong alkalis) |
| Solubility in Organic Solvents | Insoluble |
| Hygroscopicity | May be hygroscopic |
| Thermal Decomposition | Zr(OH)₄ → ZrO₂ + 2H₂O ↑ |
| Surface Area | High (due to amorphous structure) |
| Isoelectric Point | ~6-7 |
Zirconium Hydroxide is a white, odorless amorphous powder or gel-like solid with a density of approximately 3.25 g/cm³. It is insoluble in water but readily dissolves in acids. It exhibits amphoteric properties and also dissolves in strong alkalis. Upon heating, it decomposes to zirconium oxide (ZrO₂). Its amorphous structure provides high surface area, making it ideal for catalyst applications.
3. SOLUBILITY PROFILE
| Solvent | Solubility | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Water | Insoluble | All temperatures |
| Dilute Acids | Soluble | Forms Zr⁴⁺ salts |
| Hydrochloric Acid | Soluble | ZrCl₄ formation |
| Nitric Acid | Soluble | Zr(NO₃)₄ formation |
| Sulfuric Acid | Soluble | Zr(SO₄)₂ formation |
| Strong Alkalis | Soluble | Zirconate formation (amphoteric) |
| Organic Solvents | Insoluble | - |
Zirconium Hydroxide is insoluble in water and organic solvents. It readily dissolves in dilute acids, forming the corresponding zirconium(IV) salts. Due to its amphoteric nature, it also dissolves in strong alkalis. This solubility profile makes it useful as a precursor for various zirconium compounds.
4. CHEMICAL PROPERTIES AND REACTIONS
| Property | Description |
|---|---|
| Chemical Class | Inorganic hydroxide / Transition metal hydroxide |
| Oxidation State | Zr⁴⁺ (+4) |
| Amphoteric Character | Reacts with acids and strong alkalis |
| Thermal Decomposition | Zr(OH)₄ → ZrO₂ + 2H₂O ↑ (~300-700°C) |
| Acid Dissolution | Dissolves in acids forming Zr⁴⁺ salts |
| Alkali Dissolution | Dissolves in strong alkalis forming zirconates |
| Precipitation | Forms hydroxide precipitate from Zr⁴⁺ solutions |
| Aging | Gel can crystallize upon aging |
| Surface Chemistry | High surface area and surface hydroxyl groups |
Zirconium Hydroxide is a typical amphoteric hydroxide. Upon heating, it decomposes to zirconium oxide (ZrO₂). It dissolves in acids to form zirconium salts and in strong alkalis to form zirconates. Its high surface area and surface hydroxyl groups make it an ideal catalyst support material.
Key Chemical Reactions:
Thermal Decomposition:
Zr(OH)₄ → ZrO₂ + 2H₂O ↑ (~300-700°C)
Acid Dissolution:
Zr(OH)₄ + 4HCl → ZrCl₄ + 4H₂O
Alkali Dissolution:
Zr(OH)₄ + 2NaOH → Na₂ZrO₃ + 3H₂O
Precipitation Reaction:
Zr⁴⁺ + 4OH⁻ → Zr(OH)₄ ↓
5. SPECIFICATIONS (TECHNICAL AND HIGH PURITY)
| Parameter | Technical Grade | High Purity |
|---|---|---|
| Purity (Zr(OH)₄) | ≥ 99.0% | ≥ 99.9% - 99.99% |
| Appearance | White powder | White crystalline powder |
| Zirconium Oxide (ZrO₂) | Calculated | Calculated |
| Iron (Fe) | ≤ 0.01% | ≤ 0.001% |
| Calcium (Ca) | ≤ 0.01% | ≤ 0.001% |
| Magnesium (Mg) | ≤ 0.01% | ≤ 0.001% |
| Sodium (Na) | ≤ 0.05% | ≤ 0.01% |
| Chloride (Cl) | ≤ 0.01% | ≤ 0.005% |
| Sulfate (SO₄) | ≤ 0.01% | ≤ 0.005% |
| Loss on Ignition | ~15-25% | ~15-25% |
| Surface Area (BET) | >100 m²/g | >150 m²/g |
| Shelf Life | ~2 years | ~2 years |
Zirconium Hydroxide is available in various grades from technical (≥ 99%) to high purity (≥ 99.99%). High purity grades are essential for ceramic, electronic, and optical applications.
6. APPLICATIONS AND INDUSTRIAL USES
6.1. Zirconium Oxide (ZrO₂) Production (Most Important Application)
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary Precursor | Thermal decomposition yields high-purity ZrO₂ |
| Ceramic Precursor | Used in advanced ceramic production |
| Engineering Ceramics | High-strength ceramic components |
Zirconium Hydroxide is the most important precursor for zirconium oxide (ZrO₂) production. Upon heating, it decomposes to ZrO₂, which is used in advanced ceramics, engineering ceramics, thermal barrier coatings, and fuel cells.
6.2. Catalyst Applications
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Catalyst Support | High surface area support for catalysts |
| Active Phase | Active component in chemical catalysts |
| Automotive Catalysts | Used in emission control systems |
| Petrochemical | Used in catalytic processes |
Zirconium Hydroxide is widely used as a catalyst support due to its high surface area and thermal stability.
6.3. Ceramics and Glass Industry
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Engineering Ceramics | High strength, wear resistance |
| Thermal Barrier Coatings | Heat-resistant coatings |
| Fuel Cells | Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) |
| White Pigments | Ceramic and glass coloration |
| Optical Glasses | Specialty optical applications |
6.4. Coating Technologies
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Sputtering Targets | Thin film deposition |
| Thin Film Coatings | Vacuum deposition systems |
| Sol-Gel Coatings | Optical and protective coatings |
6.5. Nanotechnology
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| ZrO₂ Nanoparticles | Source material for nanoparticle production |
| Nanomaterials | Advanced nanomaterial synthesis |
| Catalytic Nanomaterials | Nanocatalyst applications |
6.6. Defense and Heat-Resistant Applications
| Application | Description |
|---|---|
| Heat-Resistant Ceramics | High-temperature applications |
| Thermal Barrier Coatings | Defense and aerospace systems |
| Laser Optics | Precision optical systems |
7. ALTERNATIVE / EQUIVALENT PRODUCTS
| Product | Description | Preference Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Zirconium Oxide (ZrO₂) | Direct use in ceramics and coatings | Already oxidized form |
| Zirconium Chloride (ZrCl₄) | Soluble zirconium source | Water-soluble, easy processing |
| Zirconium Nitrate (Zr(NO₃)₄) | Alternative soluble form | Water-soluble, different anion |
| Aluminum Hydroxide (Al(OH)₃) | Alternative for ceramic and catalyst applications | Lower cost, different properties |
| Titanium Hydroxide (Ti(OH)₄) | Alternative for coatings and pigments | Different optical and catalytic properties |
8. SECTOR SUITABILITY TABLE
| Sector / Application | Suitability | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Ceramics | Critical | ZrO₂ production precursor |
| Catalysts | High | Chemical catalyst support |
| Coatings | Suitable | Thin film and sputtering targets |
| Nanotechnology | Suitable | ZrO₂ nanoparticle synthesis |
| Pigments | Suitable | Ceramic and glass industry |
| Cosmetics | Not Suitable | Direct use not recommended |
| Food & Pharmaceuticals | Prohibited | Not permitted due to hydroxide structure |
9. COMMON NAMES
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Zirconium salt
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White hydroxide powder
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Ceramic additive
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Zirconium hydroxide gel
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Zirconium(IV) hydroxide
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Zr(OH)₄
10. PRODUCTION PROCESS
| Stage | Description |
|---|---|
| Starting Material | Zirconium salts (e.g., ZrCl₄, ZrOCl₂) |
| Precipitation | Hydroxide precipitation with ammonia or sodium hydroxide |
| Reaction | Zr⁴⁺ + 4OH⁻ → Zr(OH)₄ ↓ |
| Aging | Controlled aging of the gel |
| Filtration | Separation of precipitate from mother liquor |
| Washing | Washing to remove impurities |
| Drying | Controlled drying at 100-150°C |
| Grinding | Grinding to desired particle size |
| Packaging | Packaging |
Reaction Equation:
ZrCl₄ + 4NH₄OH → Zr(OH)₄ ↓ + 4NH₄Cl
Production Types: Technical and high purity grades
Major Producing Countries: China, Japan, United States
Commercial Purity: Ranges from 99% to 99.99%
11. SAFETY AND TOXICOLOGY
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| GHS Classification | GHS07 (Warning) |
| Hazard Statements | H315 (Skin irritation), H319 (Serious eye irritation), H335 (Respiratory tract irritation) |
| Precautionary Statements | P261, P280, P302+P352, P304+P340, P305+P351+P338 |
| Signal Word | Warning |
| UN Number | 3077 (Environmentally hazardous substance) |
| Skin Irritation | Irritant |
| Eye Irritation | Irritant |
| Inhalation | Respiratory tract irritation |
| Carcinogenicity | Not classified |
| Ecotoxicity | Low to moderate aquatic toxicity |
SPECIAL WARNINGS: Zirconium Hydroxide may cause skin irritation, serious eye irritation, and respiratory tract irritation. It is classified as an environmentally hazardous substance under UN 3077. Environmental release must be prevented. Zirconium compounds are generally considered of low toxicity but should be handled with appropriate precautions.
12. TRANSPORT INFORMATION
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| UN Number | 3077 (Environmentally hazardous substance) |
| Hazard Class | 9 |
| Packing Group | III |
| Proper Shipping Name | Environmentally hazardous substance, solid, n.o.s. (Zirconium hydroxide) |
| Marine Pollutant | Yes |
| ADR/RID Label | 9 |
Zirconium Hydroxide is classified as an environmentally hazardous substance under UN 3077.
13. REGULATORY INFORMATION
| Region | Status |
|---|---|
| EU | REACH registered |
| Turkey (KKDİK) | Mandatory compliance; registration required |
| USA (TSCA) | Listed |
| EINECS | 238-439-8 |
| Customs Tariff Code | 2825.90.90.00 |
Zirconium Hydroxide is registered in all major industrial markets. KKDİK registration is required for use in Turkey.
14. STORAGE AND HANDLING
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Storage Conditions | Cool, dry, well-ventilated area |
| Container Requirements | Tightly closed containers |
| Materials to Avoid | Strong acids, strong alkalis, moisture |
| Shelf Life | ~2 years (under proper storage) |
| Hygroscopicity | May be hygroscopic |
| Packaging Options | 100 g, 500 g, 1 kg, 5 kg, 25 kg |
Handling Notes:
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Avoid dust formation and inhalation
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Avoid skin and eye contact (use protective gloves and safety goggles)
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Use in well-ventilated areas
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Keep away from acids and strong alkalis
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Prevent environmental release
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Due to possible hygroscopicity, store in dry conditions
15. FIRE-FIGHTING MEASURES
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Fire Hazard | Not flammable |
| Extinguishing Media | Water spray, CO₂, dry chemical powder |
| Special Hazards | Thermal decomposition releases H₂O |
| Protective Equipment | Self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), full protective clothing |
| Decomposition Products | Zirconium oxides, H₂O |
Zirconium Hydroxide is not flammable. Thermal decomposition may release water vapor.
16. ACCIDENTAL RELEASE MEASURES
| Parameter | Information |
|---|---|
| Personal Protection | Wear appropriate PPE (dust mask, safety goggles, protective clothing, gloves) |
| Ventilation | Increase ventilation |
| Containment | Prevent dust dispersion; contain spill |
| Cleaning Methods | Carefully sweep or vacuum; place in appropriate disposal container |
| Environmental Precautions | Prevent entry into drains, sewers, and water bodies |
| Waste Disposal | Dispose according to local regulations |
In case of spillage, appropriate personal protective equipment must be worn. Environmental release must be prevented.
17. FIRST AID MEASURES
| Exposure Route | Action |
|---|---|
| Inhalation | Move person to fresh air. If respiratory irritation persists, seek medical attention. |
| Skin Contact | Wash with plenty of water and soap; remove contaminated clothing. If irritation persists, seek medical attention. |
| Eye Contact | Rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes. Remove contact lenses if present. Seek medical attention. |
| Ingestion | Rinse mouth with water. Do NOT induce vomiting. Seek medical attention. |
18. RAW MATERIALS AND DOWNSTREAM PRODUCTS
18.1. Raw Materials (Upstream)
| Raw Material | Description |
|---|---|
| Zircon (ZrSiO₄) | Zirconium-containing mineral |
| Baddeleyite (ZrO₂) | Zirconium oxide mineral |
| Zirconium Chloride (ZrCl₄) | Starting material for precipitation |
| Zirconium Oxychloride (ZrOCl₂) | Alternative starting material |
| Ammonia (NH₄OH) | Precipitation agent |
18.2. Downstream Products
| Product | Application |
|---|---|
| Zirconium Oxide (ZrO₂) | Ceramics, catalysts, coatings |
| Engineering Ceramics | High-strength components |
| Thermal Barrier Coatings | Heat-resistant systems |
| Catalysts | Chemical processes |
| ZrO₂ Nanoparticles | Nanotechnology applications |
19. QUALITY CONTROL PARAMETERS
| Parameter | Analytical Method | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Purity | Titration / ICP | Complexometric titration or ICP analysis |
| Zirconium Content | Gravimetric / ICP | Determined as ZrO₂ |
| Loss on Ignition | Gravimetric | Calcination to ZrO₂ |
| Surface Area | BET | Specific surface area measurement |
| Metal Impurities | ICP-MS / ICP-OES | Fe, Ca, Mg, Na, Zn, Cu, etc. |
| Anion Impurities | Ion Chromatography | Cl⁻, SO₄²⁻, NO₃⁻, etc. |
| Appearance | Visual | White powder |
| Particle Size | Laser Diffraction | Particle size distribution |
| Acid Solubility | Visual | Clear solution after acid dissolution |
20. SUMMARY AND CRITICAL WARNINGS
SUMMARY:
Zirconium Hydroxide (Zr(OH)₄, CAS 14475-63-9) is a white, amorphous powder or gel-like solid with a molecular weight of 139.25 g/mol and density of approximately 3.25 g/cm³. It is insoluble in water but dissolves in acids and strong alkalis. Thermal decomposition yields zirconium oxide (ZrO₂). Its high surface area and amorphous structure make it ideal for catalyst applications.
Its most important application is as a precursor for zirconium oxide (ZrO₂) used in engineering ceramics, thermal barrier coatings, catalysts, fuel cells, and optical applications. It is also used as a catalyst support, in coating technologies, nanotechnology, and pigment applications.
The compound is classified as an environmentally hazardous substance under UN 3077. It may cause skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritation. Storage should be in cool, dry, well-ventilated areas away from acids and strong alkalis. Due to possible hygroscopicity, store in dry conditions. Shelf life is approximately 2 years under proper storage conditions.
Key Properties:
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Appearance | White amorphous powder or gel |
| Chemical Formula | Zr(OH)₄ |
| Molecular Weight | 139.25 g/mol |
| CAS Number | 14475-63-9 |
| EC Number | 238-439-8 |
| Density | ~3.25 g/cm³ |
| Decomposition Temperature | ~300-700°C (to ZrO₂) |
| Water Solubility | Insoluble |
| Hygroscopicity | May be hygroscopic |
| Primary Use | ZrO₂ precursor, catalyst support |
Major Application Areas:
| Sector | Applications |
|---|---|
| Ceramics | ZrO₂ production, engineering ceramics |
| Catalysts | Catalyst support, active phase |
| Coatings | Thin film, sputtering targets |
| Nanotechnology | ZrO₂ nanoparticles |
| Defense | Heat-resistant ceramics, thermal barrier coatings |
Key Safety Points:
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ENVIRONMENTALLY HAZARDOUS: UN 3077
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IRRITANT: Skin, eye, and respiratory tract irritation
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STORAGE: Cool, dry, well-ventilated, away from acids and strong alkalis
-
PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT: Gloves, safety goggles, dust mask
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HYGROSCOPIC: Store in dry conditions
CRITICAL WARNINGS:
-
ZrO₂ PRECURSOR: Zirconium Hydroxide is the most important precursor for zirconium oxide production. The quality of the hydroxide directly affects the purity, particle size, and surface area of the final ZrO₂ product.
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HIGH SURFACE AREA: Its amorphous structure and high surface area (>100 m²/g) make Zirconium Hydroxide an ideal catalyst support. Surface hydroxyl groups provide excellent binding sites for catalytic active phase dispersion.
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AMPHOTERIC PROPERTY: Zirconium Hydroxide is amphoteric, dissolving in both acids and strong alkalis. This property makes it versatile for various chemical processes and enables synthesis of different zirconium compounds.
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UN 3077 CLASSIFICATION: Classified as an environmentally hazardous substance under UN 3077. Release into the environment during transport, storage, or disposal must be strictly prevented.
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HYGROSCOPIC: May be hygroscopic; store in dry conditions. Prolonged exposure to humid environments may cause mass changes and gel formation.
-
CUSTOMS CLASSIFICATION: The correct customs tariff code is 2825.90.90.00. Correct classification is essential for international trade.
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REGULATORY COMPLIANCE: REACH, KKDİK, and TSCA registration requirements apply. Not permitted for food, cosmetic, or pharmaceutical applications.
-
AGING: Zirconium Hydroxide gel can crystallize upon aging. This aging affects filtration efficiency and the properties of the final ZrO₂ product. Controlled aging is critical for desired product properties.
Important Disclaimer: This Technical Data Sheet (TDS) is for informational purposes only. The information provided is based on available data and is believed to be accurate. However, the user is solely responsible for determining the suitability of the product for their specific applications and for complying with all applicable regulations and safety requirements. For complete safety, handling, storage, and regulatory compliance information, always refer to the official Safety Data Sheet (SDS/MSDS) provided by the manufacturer/supplier. All local, national, and international regulations must be followed when working with Zirconium Hydroxide.
