The atomic number of Zirconium is 40. It has 40 electrons, 40 protons and 51 neutrons. It is represented by the symbol Zr. The name of the element is derived from its mineral Zircon.
Where is zirconium found?
It is found in minerals like zircon (ZrSiO4), baddeleyite and kosnarite. And produced as a by-product during Titanium production from Titanium ores like rutile and ilmenite. The main producer of Zirconium is South Africa, Australia, Brazil, India, the United States and Russia.
What is zirconium used for?
Some of the following are the uses of Zirconium and its compounds.
Sodium zirconium cyclosilicate is used in the treatment of hyperkalemia (elevated level of Potassium).
Aluminium zirconium tetrachlorohydrex gly (AZG) is used in deodorant products as an antiperspirant.
It is used in different restorative and prosthetic devices.
Uranium zirconium hydride (UZrH) is used as a nuclear fuel in reactors.
It is used in surgical appliances, light filaments, and watch cases because of its excellent resistance to corrosion.
Zirconium dioxide is used in metallurgical furnaces and laboratory crucibles because of its resistance to chemical attack.
Cubic zirconia and Zircon are used as a gemstone in jewellery.
It is used as a refractory and opacifier.
