Zinc oxide is a component in many formulations of durables and protective paints. One of its exceptional features is its opacity to ultraviolet light in the finished coatings, which improves weatherability. The oxide is not discolored by Sulphur compounds in the atmosphere, as occurs in some lead pigments. It also protects the paint film from mildew, enhances resistance to abrasion and neutralizes the harmful acids formed by vehicle aging.
Zinc oxide, owing to its amphoteric nature, reacts with organic acids to form soaps that act as a dispersing agent.
