Zirconium Strips

Zirconium strips are ferrous metals produced from zirconium – an element that is resistant to corrosion and has high levels of toughness. These sensors are commonly used in many industries because of their good resistance to acids, alkalis and other hostile conditions. Their features, like high melting point and low thermal neutron capture cross-section, make them suitable for challenging conditions where durability and performance are of high value. 

Features of zirconium strips

Zirconium strips are versatile strips which have special properties and uses. Here are some key features of zirconium strips:

• Corrosion Resistance: This element has remarkable immunity to many corrosive conditions associated with acids, alkalis and marine environments. This makes it suitable for use in chemical industries and nuclear power plants.
• High Strength and Toughness: Zirconium obtained as a strip has high mechanical strength and toughness, making it ideal for applications that require high mechanical strength and resistance to deformation under stress.
• Low Thermal Neutron Absorption: Zirconium has a low capture of thermal neutrons, which is desirable in a nuclear reactor, as it reduces the neutron absorption rate.
• Biocompatibility: Zirconium is non-toxic and can be used in the medical industry, such as in dentistry and surgery, as well as in implants and instruments.
• Good Ductility: Zirconium strips can be easily fabricated and formed into different shapes and can be used in several sectors.
• High Melting Point: Zirconium has a melting point and can tolerate high temperatures and can be used in high-temperature applications.
• Resistance to Oxidation: Zirconium reacts with air to form a stable oxide layer that further protects the metal from oxidisation and corrosion.
• Low Thermal Conductivity: Zirconium's thermal conductivity is comparatively low, making it advantageous for use in cases where heat dissipation is not desirable.

These features make zirconium strips suitable for use in several industries.

Applications of zirconium strips

The versatility of zirconium strips is explained by the fact that it has several useful characteristics; here are some key applications:

• Chemical Processing: Strips of zirconium are used to fabricate equipment such as reactors, heat exchangers and piping.
• Nuclear Industry: Zirconium strips are used in nuclear reactors since the metal does not significantly affect the activity of the nuclear reactions by capturing many neutrons. They are used mostly in the cladding of fuel rods and other structural components of reactors.
• Medical Applications: Zirconium strips are incorporated in dental and orthopaedic implants and surgical tools because of their compatibility.
• Aerospace Industry: Zirconium strips are used in aerospace industry for those parts that need high temperature and corrosion protection to ensure the safety of aircraft equipment.
• Pharmaceuticals: Zirconium is used in the pharmaceutical industry to fabricate equipment and instruments.
• Oil and Gas: Zirconium strips are used in offshore drilling and extraction and they are resistant to corrosive substances encountered in the marine environment.
• Electronics: Zirconium is used in some applications, such as capacitors and insulators, and the metal is also used in strips, which possess excellent electrical conductivity.
• Research and Development: Zirconium is often used in laboratories and research centres for experiments where high temperatures and exposure to corrosive chemicals are required, as the metal is stable and chemically inert.

These uses show that zirconium strips are critical in the technological and industrial world.