Zirconium is a silver-gray transition metal, a type of element that is malleable and ductile and easily forms stable compounds. It is also highly resistant to corrosion. Let’s take a look at some facts about the metal as well as where you might use it and where you can get it for your next project.
Facts
Zircon, a gemstone, comes in blue, yellow, green, brown, orange, red and occasionally purple varieties. It has been used in jewelry for centuries. In 1789 Martin Heinrich Klaproth, a German chemist discovered zirconium in a sample of zircon from Sri Lanka. It was 25% silica, 0.5% iron oxide, and 70% a new oxide that he named zirconerde.
Where can it be found in?
Zirconium is highly resistant to corrosion and is commonly used in corrosive environments. It can be found in pipes, fittings and heat exchangers and is used in steel alloys, colored glazes, bricks, ceramics, abrasives, flashbulbs, lamp filaments, artificial gemstones and some deodorants. Other uses for zirconium include catalytic converters, furnace bricks, lab crucibles, surgical instruments, television glass, and removing residual gases from vacuum tubes. It is also an ideal material for use in nuclear power stations since it does not absorb neutrons. This is by far the most common use, with more than 90% of it being used in that way.
Where Can I Get Zirconium for My Next Project?
If you are looking for zirconium for your next project, look no further than Ferralloy. Contact us today or visit our online store for a quote or to learn more about our services.
