Mercury(II) stearate

Mercury stearate is a metal-organic compound, a salt of mercury and stearic acid with the chemical formula. The compound is classified as a metallic soap, i.e. a metal derivative of a fatty acid. The compound is highly toxic by inhalation, ingestion, and skin absorption.

Synthesis

An exchange reaction of sodium stearate and mercury dichloride:
Also, heating mercurious oxide with stearic acid.

Physical properties

The compound forms yellow waxy substance.

Uses

It is used as a germicide
and as a plasticizer in the production of ceramics.