Lead stearate is a metal-organic compound, a salt of lead and stearic acid with the chemical formula C
36H
70PbO
4.[1] The compound is classified as a metallic soap, i.e. a metal derivative of a fatty acid.[2] The compound is toxic.

Synthesis

The compound can be prepared by reacting stearic acid, lead(II) oxide, and a catalyst acetic acid.[3]

Also, an exchange reaction between lead(II) acetate and sodium stearate:

Physical properties

White powder with a slight fatty odor. Sinks in water.[4] Hygroscopic in air.

Slightly soluble in water.[1] Soluble in hot ethanol.

Uses

The compound is used as a drier in oil paints and varnishes to speed the polymerization and oxidation processes. Also used as a lubricant and stabilizer in vinyl polymers and as a corrosion inhibitor in petroleum products.[5][6][7]

References

  1. ^ a b "Lead Stearate". American Elements. Retrieved 7 March 2023.
  2. ^ "T3DB: Lead stearate". t3db.ca. Retrieved 7 March 2023.
  3. ^ "Preparation process of lead stearate based on melting method". 18 December 2013. Retrieved 7 March 2023.
  4. ^ "LEAD STEARATE | CAMEO Chemicals | NOAA". cameochemicals.noaa.gov. Retrieved 7 March 2023.
  5. ^ "Lead Stearate » Waldies Co. Ltd". Waldies Co. Ltd. Retrieved 7 March 2023.
  6. ^ Encyclopedia of Chemical Technology: Fuel resources to heat stabilizers. Wiley. 1991. p. 1074. ISBN 978-0-471-52669-8. Retrieved 7 March 2023.
  7. ^ Titow, M. V. (6 December 2012). PVC Technology. Springer Science & Business Media. p. 269. ISBN 978-94-009-5614-8. Retrieved 7 March 2023.