Zinc is a metal that is generally used to galvanize other metals in order to protect them. This action prevents the metal from rusting. One of the metals that is often undergoes galvanization is steel. Galvanized steel is used to make car bodies, street light panels, suspension bridges and roadside guardrails. The name of zinc in English, which itself was imported from German, is derived from the Persian word “sang” which means “stone”. One of the applications of zinc is its use in die casting. Die casting is used in the manufacture of automobiles, electronic equipment and computer hardware. In this article, we will discuss the industrial applications of zinc metal after a brief explanation.
?How is zinc extraction done
Zinc can be extracted from both open air and underground mines. But usually, underground mines are exploited more often. Firstly, underground zinc mines are built in the earth crust. After extracting the zinc ore, it is crushed in the same place and then zinc concentrate is obtained from it. This is done at the mine site itself to avoid excessive and unnecessary cost. Finally, zinc oxide is extracted from this concentrate. One of the side products obtained in this process is sulfuric acid.
?What are the industrial uses of zinc metal
Zinc is the 23rd most abundant element in the earth’s crust. Zinc sulfide has always been one of the most important minerals available to mankind throughout history. Zinc can be extracted from several different rocks. Zinc is one of the most widely used metals in various industries. If we categorize it in terms of metal production tonnage, it is the fourth most produced metal. Only iron, aluminum and copper metals are ranked higher than that. Applications of zinc can range from metal production, rubber and pharmaceuticals. About three quarters of the total zinc produced and extracted is finally used for galvanizing other metals and creating a protective coating on them. Another use of zinc is its use in metal alloys such as bronze and brass, it is also used in casting and production of zinc rolls.
The remaining quarter of the produced zinc is used in other industries such as rubber production, chemicals, paint and agricultural industry. Zinc is also one of the most essential elements for the growth and development of the human body, animals and plants. After iron, zinc is the second metal found in the human body.
Galvanizing metals with zinc
When zinc is coated on other metals, it creates a protective layer on them against air. Especially iron and steel can benefit a lot from galvanization. It is estimated that steel galvanized by zinc can resist air for up to fifty years and water for up to twenty years. This makes the use of zinc to protect steel very attractive and logical for craftsmen. In addition, since galvanized steel can be used as soon as it reaches the craftsman and does not need more processing, painting or protection, it can be very cost effective.
Other industrial uses of zinc
Battery electrolyte: The use of zinc in the battery electrolyte is based on a chemical composition that is water-based. Therefore, this composition is resistant to fire and can be safer than other materials used. Zinc is also widely used in making electrodes for batteries.
Zinc-ion batteries: Zinc-ion batteries are safer, cheaper and last longer than lithium batteries. Also, the raw materials used in zinc-ion batteries are much more abundant than in lithium-ion ones.
Zinc compounds: As mentioned, three-fourths of zinc used by industries is used in metallic form and mainly for galvanizing other metals. But zinc compounds are also used in various industries such as rubber making, chemicals, paint and agriculture.
Automotive industry: Galvanized metals are widely used in the automotive industry.
Medical industry: Since zinc is a metal that does not pose a danger to nature, it is widely used to make medical equipment.
Marine industries: Due to its resistance to rust and its ability to protect other metals, zinc is a very valuable and reliable metal for use in marine and shipbuilding industries.
Last word
Zinc has been used by humans since ancient times. Zinc is one of the most vital elements for the body of living organisms and without it, life on the planet is not possible. On the other hand, the use of zinc in various industries seems very necessary. Zinc is perhaps the best choice for protecting other metals, especially iron and steel, from rust and corrosion. Zinc can reduce the cost in many industries, provide safer batteries and ultimately lead to the prosperity of industries. Today, our lives are heavily dependent on zinc. Fortunately, this metal does not have many negative environmental effects.
