Zinc Sulphate Hazards

Zinc sulfate is a common industrial chemical compound that has numerous applications. It is used in making rayon, zinc electroplating, mineral separation, dyeing, as a fertilizer, and even medically as an astringent or emetic. Zinc sulfate is produced in different chemical forms, from monohydrate to heptahydrate, for use in its various applications. Zinc sulfate heptahydrate is caustic and reactive and only used in controlled production processes. Zinc sulfate monohydrate is used much more commonly, and while potentially hazardous to humans, presents nowhere near the risk of its chemical cousin.

Acute Exposure: Ingestion or Inhalation Hazards

• Exposure of zinc sulfate to the skin can cause skin irritation. Even minute quantities can cause eye irritation or corneal burn. Zinc sulfate may produce a gastrointestinal disturbance if ingested. Breathing zinc sulfate can cause sinus and esophageal irritation.

Chronic Exposure: Ingestion or Inhalation Hazards

• Regular skin contact with zinc sulfate can cause skin dermatitis. Chronic exposure to zinc sulfate may produce eye conjunctivitis. Breathing zinc sulfate can result in inhalation reflex bronchoconstriction, a serious condition that can lead to chronic asthma.

Fire or Explosion Hazards

• While zinc sulfate is not flammable, it will melt and produce potentially hazardous zinc and sulfur oxides when undergoing thermal decomposition.