Zinkchloridlösungen

Zinkchloridlösungen, also known as zinc chloride solutions, are aqueous mixtures containing dissolved zinc ions (Zn²⁺) and chloride ions (Cl⁻). The most common commercial form is a saturated solution of zinc chloride (ZnCl₂) in water, which can reach concentrations up to approximately 66 % by weight at room temperature. The solution is typically obtained by dissolving stoichiometric amounts of anhydrous zinc chloride or zinc chloride dihydrate in distilled or deionized water, with the process being exothermic as the solute dissolves.

The physical properties of Zinkchloridlösungen are characterized by a high density (about 1.4–1.5 g cm⁻³ for saturated solutions), a high molar conductivity, and a strong Lewis acidity. Because of the high chloride content, the solutions are known for their corrosive behavior toward many metals, especially iron and steel, and they can accelerate corrosion in aqueous environments.

Applications of zinc chloride solutions are diverse. In industrial settings they serve as electrolytes in electrolytic zinc refining and electroplating. They are also used as drilling fluids (slickwater) in oil and gas exploration because their high viscosity and alkaline pH (typically 9–10) help reduce wellbore pressure and improve hydrocarbon recovery. In the food industry, diluted zinc chloride solutions act as firming agents for pickled products and as thickeners in sauces. In laboratory chemistry they are employed as catalysts, as reagents for the synthesis of organozinc compounds, and as a source of Zn²⁺ in various spectroscopic analyses.

Safety considerations require handling Zinkchloridlösungen with caution. The solutions are corrosive, can cause severe skin and eye irritation, and the vapors may irritate the respiratory tract. Proper personal protective equipment—gloves, safety goggles, and protective clothing—is essential during handling, and all spills should be neutralized with a weak base before cleanup.

In summary, Zinkchloridlösungen are versatile aqueous zinc chloride mixtures widely used in industrial, drilling, food, and laboratory contexts. Their high ionic strength, corrosivity, and acidifying effects make them valuable but demanding reagents that require careful handling and environmental control.