Periodic Table of WIS

Zirconium Zr

 

Where is zirconium used--or where does it impact our everyday lives?

 

 

Name  Zirconium     symbol Zr

Atomic number: 40  Atomic mass: 91.22
 

 Solid at room temperature
 

Where on Periodic Table: Group 3, d-block

Melting point   1855 oC  (3371 oF)

Boiling point  4409 oC  (7968.2 oF)

Density  6.49 g/mL

Reaction with air (O2): When it is in a fine powder, it ignites when heated and reacts spontaneously with air.

Reaction/solubility in water: NR

Other:
Zirconium is found in S-type stars and has been identified in the sun and meteorites.
It is used in making surgical appliances and photoflash bulbs.

Source: LANL.gov

Researcher: Mia G

 

 

 

 

Used for metal cutting discs--particularly for stainless steel.  Zirconium oxide, ZrO2, and aluminium oxide, Al2O3, provide hard cutting or abrasive surfaces.