Q. Define Zirconium and its alloys?
Zirconium and its alloys were developed primarily for the nuclear industry, but have found many industrial corrosion-resistant applications as well. The most prevalent industrial application is in sulphuric acid service, in concentrations where glass, silicon iron, graphite, and tantalum, are also used.
The exceptional corrosion resistance of zirconium in H2SO4 is achieved by the formation of a regenerative more stable ‘cubic' ZrO2 oxide film rather than the typical monoclinic ZrO2 oxide formed in hot air.
As a heat transfer material, zirconium has a higher thermal conductivity and a lower coefficient of expansion than type 316 stainless steel.