Zirconium(IV) hydrogen phosphate stands out in the world of inorganic chemicals for its versatility and unique properties. Known by its chemical formula Zr(HPO4)2·H2O, this compound appears most often as a white or off-white solid, usually in the form of fine powder, irregular flakes, or even crystalline pearls. Its density averages around 2.5 to 2.8 g/cm3, which means handling or storing it in large quantities requires some muscle and caution. Usually shipped as either dry solid or a wet paste depending on what end users want, it comes packed in moisture-resistant bags, steel drums, or lined containers to prevent reaction with air or water. Some industries call for precise particle sizing, so the material sometimes shows up as a processed fine powder to blend seamlessly in composite materials or as chunky flakes for direct use in resin beds.
The crystal structure offers some clear advantages for chemistry fans and practical users alike. Built around layers of zirconium atoms sandwiched with hydrogen phosphate groups, the structure creates a robust lattice with strong resistance to breakdown by acids or mild bases. Unlike some other inorganic acids or their derivatives, zirconium(IV) hydrogen phosphate does not dissolve in most common solvents. Hot or concentrated bases can break apart the structure, but under normal storage it stays inert and stable. Crystal samples show a monoclinic or orthorhombic system, with layered platelets that can swell slightly in water, helping in certain ion-exchange processes. In actual handling, this means the material is usually easy to separate and process, since it doesn’t clump heavily from static or humidity.
Folks in water treatment, nuclear technology, and chemical engineering often cross paths with this compound. Its affinity for cations makes it valuable for ion-exchange and heavy metal removal, especially in processes where metals like cesium or strontium need to be filtered from liquids. Zirconium(IV) hydrogen phosphate shows up as a phosphate buffer, a catalyst carrier, and sometimes a flame-retardant additive in specialized plastic blends. It acts as a slow-release phosphate fertilizer in challenging soil environments, although costs tend to push it out of large-scale agriculture. Some advanced ceramics producers use finely milled zirconium(IV) hydrogen phosphate to tweak thermal behavior in glass and refractory components, aiming for higher temperature resistance without heavy metal contamination.
The product often ships as technical or analytical grade, with minimum purity standards above 98% based on total metallic content and residual phosphate. Moisture levels, particle size distribution, and crystal form get listed on quality certificates from trusted producers. For trade and customs purposes, shipments typically reference HS Code 2842909000, classifying the material under “Other inorganic compounds” within the broader merchandise schemes. Knowing the right code has saved many buyers headaches at busy ports.
Looking at the chemistry, each molecule consists of a central zirconium atom connected through oxygen bridges to monohydrogen phosphate groups. This arrangement produces a combination of acidic sites and metal centers, which explains its unusual combination of acid resistance and ion-exchange capacity. A single molar unit weighs about 419 grams, factoring in one molecule of hydration per formula, but variations exist depending on drying routines and storage conditions. Hydration influences the powder’s ability to spread or agglomerate, especially in humid regions. Packed securely, it rarely sheds much water, though open-air storage boosts clumping and weight gain over time.
Product ships out from most facilities in dense crystalline flakes, granules, or fine powder forms. Some trade groups supply a pearled or beaded grade, preferred for use in packed columns where even flow and stable bed height matter more than maximum surface area. On rare occasions, specialty processors offer slurry or suspension-grade, where the compound gets blended with deionized water to yield a pumpable paste for uniform application to ceramic molds or extended chemical reactions. I’ve seen plants store it in double-walled drums with desiccant liners, which does a solid job preventing caking and moisture pickup during long shipping periods. Like many other white inorganic powders, it can cause eye or skin irritation on contact. Proper dust masks, gloves, and eye protection remain the tools of choice for safe handling, with most teams following local workplace safety rules.
Zirconium(IV) hydrogen phosphate does not carry the same acute toxicity as strong acids or many heavy metal salts. Inhalation of powder or dust could cause respiratory complaints, so local exhaust ventilation plays a critical role. In my experience, exposure episodes mostly trigger irritation or sneezing rather than lasting damage, although strict industrial hygiene regulations mandate eyewash stations and emergency showers. Material Safety Data Sheets rate the compound as a low to moderate hazard, with no special storage features beyond moisture control and good airflow. Waste streams carrying the product should avoid local waterways, since phosphate loading could contribute to algae blooms in sensitive lakes or rivers. Disposal rules vary by region, but most facilities neutralize spent resin beds and filter cake before disposal as non-hazardous solid waste.
Main production routes for zirconium(IV) hydrogen phosphate start from zirconium oxychloride and phosphoric acid, both widely produced but subject to regional price swings. Sourcing quality raw materials remains crucial, since trace impurities in phosphate or metal sources often pass through to the final product, affecting ion-exchange efficiency and color. In practice, only a few suppliers maintain strict enough controls over starting materials to guarantee the ultra-high purity grades needed in electronics or pharmaceutical ingredients. On a global scale, zirconium compounds track with zircon mining, centered mostly in South Africa, Australia, and China. Sustainable production continues to be an industry focus, especially as more users expect transparency in source and processing steps.
