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CarCareTruthProducts · Ranked

Zinc Oxide

  • Mineral oils
  • CAS 1314-13-2
  • IUPAC: Oxozinc

Zinc Oxide (CAS 1314-13-2) appears in 8 of the 1,812 car-care products CarCareTruth tracks (as of June 2026).

Zinc oxide fume (from heating) is a known cause of metal fume fever — not relevant for cold-applied grease. At use concentrations in grease, dermal and inhalation risk is low. IARC not classifiable as a human carcinogen in non-respirable form.

Zinc oxide appears as a trace additive (0.1–1%) in some white lithium greases as a mild anti-corrosion and lubricant enhancement agent. In the finely dispersed solid form it imparts a slight white opacity to the grease. Zinc oxide is stable and insoluble in water at neutral pH, which limits aquatic mobility in leave-on lubricant applications.

Zinc is regulated as a CWA toxic pollutant and should not be allowed to enter storm drains in quantity. At the trace concentrations found in greases, the exposure pathway during normal hinge/track lubrication is minimal. The primary environmental concern is cumulative zinc loading in runoff from repeated outdoor applications on surfaces subject to rain washing.

Health & environment profile

VOC
no
Prop 65 listed
no
Asthmagen
no
EPA Safer Choice
no
Aquatic toxicity
no
Biodegradable
no
Bioaccumulative
no
Persistent
no
Ozone depleting
no
Microplastic
no
PFAS
no
Env. score
3/5
Purpose: Anti-corrosion additive, mild lubricant enhancer, and white pigment in greases and lubricants

Common questions about Zinc Oxide

What is Zinc Oxide used for in car care?
Anti-corrosion additive, mild lubricant enhancer, and white pigment in greases and lubricants
Is Zinc Oxide a VOC?
No. Zinc Oxide is not classified as a volatile organic compound (VOC).
Is Zinc Oxide on California's Proposition 65 list?
No. Zinc Oxide is not on California's Proposition 65 list.

8 products contain this

Related

Health and environment notes translate the manufacturer Safety Data Sheet, the GHS classification, and authoritative regulatory listings (California Prop 65, EPA). Not medical advice. They describe the ingredient itself; whether a hazard applies to a finished product depends on its concentration and how it's used.