Zinc Stearate is a white coloured poweder. It is insoluble in water, but dissolves well in aromatic compounds like benzene and chlorinated hydrocarbons on heating. In fact, zinc stearate repels water (hydrophobic). It is the zinc salt of stearic acid. It is insoluble in alcohol and ethers. It is a very powerful mold resease agent. Zinc stearate does not contain any electrolyte.

Zinc stearate is used in the pharmaceutical industry and the cosmetic products like face powder to improve the smoothness and adhesion. It is used in paint industry as a gloss imparting agent and a grinding agent. In plastic and rubber processing, zinc stearate is ued as a releasing agent and lubricant which can be easily incorporated. It is used as as a metal release agent in rubber, polyurethane and polyester processing system.