The natural mineral zircon is a source of the chemical element of zirconium, which has not yet been fully studied. In the 19th century, a chemist from Sweden made metal zirconium. The largest natural reserves of this substance are contained in the layer of the lithosphere. This material has a high corrosion resistance, does not react with water, including marine, cold and hot solutions, alkalis, acids.
The role of zirconium in physiological natural processes
In this regard, the material is considered highly inert. According to numerous studies, zirconium has a negative effect on the growth of flora, but at the same time stimulates the reproduction of yeast and microorganisms.
Action on the human body
The food source of zirconium has not been established to date, as well as the required amount of its use per day per person. It was still not possible to establish a toxic and lethal dose. Long-term observations do not give a definite answer, but 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 general poisoning of the body. Determine the content of this substance in the body allows the analysis of urine and blood.
There is no official information on the healing power and benefits of zirconium.
The entry of this element into the body occurs from the outside. For example, zirconium powder is contained in the air of the working area in the foundry, as well as in the manufacture of cosmetics and hygiene products. The likelihood of acute respiratory poisoning is most pronounced at engineering enterprises and the nuclear industry. The zirconium powder used in the technological process is present in the air in the form of a fine 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 Soon, this type of cosmetic products was withdrawn from sale. The reason for this is customer allergy and the appearance of papules. Inhalation zirconium powder promotes pulmonary fibrosis.
Why is zirconium needed in production?
Zirconium in its pure form is used in the manufacturing process of nuclear reactors, aircraft and missile hulls. Some alloys with this element were used for the production of television picture tubes as a reflective surface. Pyrotechnic items and ammunition contain zirconium powder.
Dentistry is a science that cannot do without zirconium dioxide today . It is used in the manufacture of crowns, is part of a mixture for polishing teeth and removing tartar. Zirconium powder is also required in the formation of foil, metal profiles and wire.