ZnOAc22H2O

Zinc acetate dihydrate, with the formula Zn(OAc)2·2H2O (often written ZnC4H10O6), is a zinc salt of acetic acid. It appears as a white, crystalline solid that is readily soluble in water and many polar organic solvents. In the solid state, zinc(II) is typically six-coordinate, bound to two acetate groups and two water molecules; acetate ligands can bridge, giving polymeric networks. In aqueous solution, the complex dissociates to give aquated zinc species such as [Zn(H2O)6]2+ with acetate as counterion.

The compound is usually prepared by crystallization from aqueous solutions of zinc acetate or by reacting zinc oxide or zinc carbonate with acetic acid, followed by controlled crystallization to yield the dihydrate. It readily loses water on heating and, at higher temperatures, dehydrates and decomposes to zinc oxide with evolution of acetic acid.

Zinc acetate dihydrate is used as a reagent and precursor in organic synthesis and materials science. It serves as a zinc source for preparing zinc oxide, catalysts for esterification and polymerization, and a mordant in dyeing. It is also employed as a zinc supplement in some animal feeds and can be used in the preparation of zinc-containing coatings and nanoparticles.

Safety: It is an irritant to skin and eyes and can cause respiratory irritation if dust is inhaled. It should be handled with appropriate protective equipment, away from bases and incompatible materials. In case of contact, rinse with water and seek medical advice if irritation persists.