Zinc chromate

Zinc chromate (CAS 13530-65-9), also sold as Zinc Chrome Yellow and Buttercup Yellow, is an inorganic chromate pigment used primarily for its corrosion-inhibiting properties in protective coatings. It functions as an active anti-corrosion pigment rather than a purely decorative one, releasing chromate ions that passivate metal substrates and suppress underfilm corrosion in various industrial applications.

In aerospace and defense, zinc chromate is specified in primer systems for aluminum and steel airframe components where long-term corrosion resistance under harsh environmental exposure is critical. Automotive OEM and refinish coatings use it in primer formulations applied to steel bodywork and structural parts requiring durable barrier protection and high-performance chemical resistance.

Industrial maintenance coatings for bridges, pipelines, and heavy steel structures incorporate it to extend service life in aggressive outdoor or chemical environments where metal integrity is paramount. Printing inks and specialty packaging coatings also use it as a yellow pigment where color stability and substrate adhesion are formulation priorities for high-quality industrial printing projects.

Zinc chromate is supplied as a dry powder in varying particle size distributions to suit different coating formulations. It is available in technical and industrial grades for diverse manufacturing needs. Specifications are typically aligned to ASTM standards referenced in aerospace and defense procurement. Packaging ranges from small drums to bulk quantities depending on specific volume requirements.