One major area of application for zirconium is nuclear energy, where the metal is used to clad fuel elements in nuclear power stations. Furthermore, it increases the corrosion resistance of steel. Zirconium is also used for chemical piping in corrosive environments and for heat exchangers. The element is also found in the lambda sensor used for catalytic exhaust gas purification in motor vehicles. Due to its high reactivity, zirconium powder serves as an ignition and heat source in pyrotechnic charges – a property that makes it of interest for both civilian pyrotechnics and military signal and illumination munitions. In the form of zirconia, it is required for the manufacture of refractory ceramics, dental alloys, paints and varnishes.
