Facts about Zirconium
Where zirconium is found
Zircon, ZrSiO4, the principle ore, is found in deposits in Flordia, South Carolina, Austrailia, and Brazil. Baddeleyte, found in Brazil, is an important zirconium mineral.
Zirconium’s natural abundance
Zirconium is found in abundance in S-type stars, and has been identified in the sun and meteorites. Analyses of lunar rock samples show a surprisingly high zirconium oxide content, compared with terrestrial rocks. Some forms of zircon have excellent gemstone qualities.
How zirconium is obtained
Zircon, ZrSiO4, the principle ore, is found in deposits in Florida, South Carolina, Australia, and Brazil. Baddeleyte, found in Brazil, is an important zirconium mineral. It is principally pure ZrO2 in crystalline form having a hafnium content of about 1%. Zirconium also occurs in some 30 other recognized mineral species. Zirconium is produced commercially by reduction of the chloride with magnesium and by other methods.
Chemical properties/ reaction tendencies of zirconium
Zirconium reacts with oxygen and nitrogen in our atmosphere and it forms film that prevents further corrosion of the metal. This doesn't say that zirconium is actually a metal that is completely prone to destruction by natural elements though. Zirconium, even without its protective film of oxide or nitride, is resistant to weak acids. In fact it is known in the industry as a tough, corrosion-resistant metal that is used in high-performance pumps and valves. Zirconium becomes SUPERCONDUCTIVE when it is alloyed with niobium.
Uses of zirconium and its compounds
Zirconium is used to make the cores of nuclear reactors because it resists corrosion and does not readily absorb neutrons. Zircaloy is an important alloy developed for such nuclear applications as a coating for fuel parts. Baddeleyite can withstand extremely high temperatures. It is used for laboratory crucibles and the linings for furnaces.