Facts About Zirconium
Today, zirconium semi-finished products are primarily used in the nuclear and chemical industries, where the materials differ mainly by their hafnium content.
Zirconium Zr 702 (Zr 700) has excellent corrosion resistance due to its stable and firmly adhering zirconium oxide layer, a property highly valued by the chemical industry. In this case, the hafnium content plays a minor role.
In contrast, the nuclear industry requires zirconium alloys with minimal hafnium content. Zircaloy, containing less than 0.1% hafnium, is used as cladding material for fuel rods, where a low neutron absorption cross-section is required to maximize the efficiency of the uranium fuel chain reaction. Hafnium, being a neutron absorber, must be minimized.
The separation of hafnium from zirconium is challenging and complex, reflected in the material prices. Zirconium Zr700, Zr702, Zr705, and Zircaloy 2 and Zircaloy 4 are available in all semi-finished product forms.
The mechanical properties of Zr700 and Zr702 are determined by the dissolved residual gases in the metal, with oxygen playing a significant role. In other alloys, specific properties are achieved through the deliberate addition of elements such as niobium.
Processing of Zirconium Semi-Finished Products
Zirconium oxide is playing an increasingly important role in the dental industry. Zirconium is also gaining significance as an alloying element in titanium alloys for implants. Contact us today to learn more about our high-quality zirconium semi-finished products and customized solutions for your needs.