Zirconium and zirconium powder: what is needed for these substances in production and nature

The natural mineral zircon is the source of the chemical element of zirconium, which has not yet been fully studied. In the XIX century, a chemist from Sweden achieved the production of metallic zirconium. The largest natural reserves of this substance are contained in the layer of the lithosphere. This material has a high anti-corrosion resistance, does not react with water, including with sea, cold and hot solutions, alkalis, acids.

The role of zirconium in physiological natural processes

In this respect, the material is considered highly inert. According to numerous studies, zirconium has a negative effect on the growth of the flora, but at the same time it stimulates the reproduction of yeast fungi and microorganisms.

Action on the human body

The food source of zirconium has not been established to date, nor is the required amount of its consumption per day per person. Still, it was not possible to establish a toxic and lethal dose. Long-term observations do not give an unambiguous answer, but they inform that constant contact of a person and one of the forms of a substance, for example zirconium powder, for at least 40 years leads to a general poisoning of the organism. Determine the content of this substance in the body allows the analysis of urine and blood.

There is no official information about the healing power and benefits of zirconium.

The entry of this element into the body comes from outside. For example, zirconium powder is contained in the air of the working area at the foundry, as well as in the manufacture of cosmetics and hygiene products. The probability of acute respiratory poisoning is most pronounced at the enterprises of machine building and nuclear industry. The zirconium powder used in the process is present in the air in the form of a finely dispersed suspension, but at the same time it provokes pneumonia and inflammatory processes of the respiratory tract.

In the middle of the last century, there was a practice of producing deodorants containing zirconium as an absorbent. Soon this kind of cosmetic products was withdrawn from sale. The reason for this - allergies in consumers and the appearance of papules. When inhaled, zirconium powder promotes the development of pulmonary fibrosis.

Why do we need zirconium in our production?

Zirconium in its pure form is used in the manufacture of nuclear reactors, aircraft and missile corps. Some alloys with this element were used to produce TV picture tubes as a reflective surface. Pyrotechnic products and ammunition contain zirconium powder.

Dentistry is a science that can not do without zirconia today . It is used in the manufacture of crowns, is part of a mixture for polishing teeth and removing tartar. Zirconium powder is also necessary in the molding of foil, metal profiles and wire.