Zirconium Micron Powder ( Zr, 99.5 %, 80 µm, Metal Basis )

Technical Description:

Zirconium Micron Powder (Zr, 99.5%, 80 µm, Metal Basis) is a fine powder made of zirconium (Zr) with a purity of 99.5%. The powder has an average particle size of 80 micrometers (µm), which is considered medium-sized. This particle size is well-suited for a range of applications where the material needs to exhibit good flowability while still maintaining significant surface area for reactions or sintering. Zirconium is a refractory metal known for its excellent corrosion resistance, high melting point, and strength, which makes it valuable in various high-performance applications.

• Chemical Composition:
  • Zirconium (Zr) content: 99.5%, ensuring minimal contamination with other elements, which is essential for applications where purity and consistency are critical, such as in aerospace, nuclear, and chemical industries.
• Particle Size:
  • The powder has an average particle size of 80 µm, which is appropriate for applications that require a balance between surface area and mechanical strength. This particle size provides good handling properties and is suitable for powder metallurgy and other processes where fine to medium-sized particles are optimal.
• Shape:
  • The particles are typically irregular in shape, which is common for micron-sized powders. This shape allows for better interlocking of particles in sintering processes, which is beneficial for creating dense and strong components.
• Purity:
  • With 99.5% purity, the zirconium powder is free from most contaminants, making it suitable for high-performance applications where minimal impurities are crucial for ensuring reliable material behavior and performance.

Applications:

1. Powder Metallurgy:
   • Zirconium powder is used in powder metallurgy to create sintered components such as high-strength alloys, wear-resistant parts, and structural components. These components are widely used in aerospace, automotive, and chemical processing industries due to their excellent mechanical properties and resistance to corrosion and heat.
2. Nuclear Industry:
   • Zirconium is an essential material in the nuclear industry. It is used in the production of fuel cladding for nuclear reactors. The Zirconium powder is used in the manufacture of zirconium alloys for cladding due to its low neutron capture cross-section and corrosion resistance in high-radiation and high-temperature environments.
3. Additive Manufacturing (3D Printing):
   • Zirconium powder is used in additive manufacturing processes like Selective Laser Melting (SLM) and Electron Beam Melting (EBM). The 80 µm particle size allows for the creation of highly detailed, strong, and durable parts used in aerospace, automotive, and medical applications, where strength, precision, and high temperature resistance are crucial.
4. High-Temperature Applications:
   • Zirconium has a very high melting point (approximately 1855°C or 3371°F) and excellent thermal stability, making it suitable for use in high-temperature applications. Zirconium powder is used in the manufacture of components such as heat shields, turbine blades, and furnace linings that need to withstand extreme thermal conditions.
5. Chemical Processing:
   • Zirconium’s corrosion resistance makes it ideal for use in the chemical processing industry. Zirconium powder is used in the production of chemical reactors, heat exchangers, and vessels that must resist corrosion from strong acids and high temperatures. Zirconium’s ability to maintain integrity in highly corrosive environments makes it valuable in industries such as pharmaceuticals, petrochemicals, and fertilizers.
6. Coatings and Surface Treatments:
   • Zirconium oxide coatings are used for their high-temperature resistance and corrosion resistance. Zirconium powder is used in thermal spraying to create protective coatings on parts exposed to harsh environments, such as turbine blades, gas turbines, and marine components. These coatings increase the longevity and performance of critical components.
7. Hydrogen Storage:
   • Zirconium-based materials are being studied for their use in hydrogen storage applications. Zirconium alloys are used in metal hydride systems for hydrogen storage, making them suitable for fuel cells and energy storage systems. Zirconium’s ability to absorb hydrogen efficiently is beneficial for applications in clean energy and sustainable technologies.
8. Battery Technology:
   • Zirconium-based materials are used in the production of high-performance batteries, such as solid-state batteries. The fine Zirconium powder can be used to create advanced battery components that improve the performance, safety, and stability of energy storage systems.
9. Welding and Soldering:
   • Zirconium powder is used in welding and soldering applications, especially in creating strong, durable joints for high-performance materials. The powder can be used in soldering fluxes or electrode coatings for materials that require high-temperature resistance and corrosion protection.
10. Pharmaceutical and Medical Applications:
    • Zirconium oxide is used in the manufacture of medical devices such as dental implants and surgical tools due to its biocompatibility and strength. Zirconium powder is also used in creating medical coatings that improve the wear resistance and performance of implants.
11. Superalloys:
    • Zirconium is a key component in the production of superalloys, which are used in aerospace, chemical, and high-performance industrial applications. Zirconium powder is used in producing these alloys to enhance their strength, corrosion resistance, and oxidation resistance at high temperatures.

Summary of Benefits:

• High Purity: The 99.5% purity ensures minimal contamination, making the powder ideal for high-performance applications in aerospace, nuclear, and medical industries.
• Medium Particle Size (80 µm): The 80 µm particle size provides a balance between surface area and strength, making it suitable for applications that require robustness, good flowability, and efficient sintering or powder metallurgy.
• Spherical Shape: The spherical particles enhance flowability, packing density, and uniformity, making it ideal for processes like additive manufacturing, sintering, and coatings.
• Versatility: The powder is highly versatile, used in a wide range of applications such as nuclear technology, chemical processing, high-temperature applications, additive manufacturing, and hydrogen storage.

Conclusion:

Zirconium Micron Powder (99.5%, 80 µm) is a high-performance material with exceptional properties such as high-temperature stability, corrosion resistance, and strength. Its high purity, medium particle size, and spherical shape make it ideal for a variety of advanced applications in industries such as nuclear, aerospace, chemical processing, medical, and additive manufacturing. The powder is essential for producing durable, high-performance components and materials used in demanding environments, ensuring consistent performance and reliability across a wide range of applications.