Viscous amber color liquid that is very soluble in acetone. Zinc naphthenate is found as a Drier, Preservative, and Wetting agent in paints, varnishes, and resins. It is also used as an Insecticide, and Fungicide.

Copper naphthenate is a copper derivative of naphthenic acid. Although commonly called salts of naphthenic acid, copper naphthenate is not ionic, but is a covalent coordination complex, hence its lipophilic character. Copper naphthenate is most widely used in wood preservation and for protecting other cellulosic materials such as textiles and cordage from damage by decay fungi and insects. Other metal naphthenates are used as paint driers, rubber adhesion promoters, lubricant additives, and catalysts where oil solubility is required.