sinkkimetallit

Sinkkimetallit, known in English as zinc metals, refers to metallic zinc. Zinc is a chemical element with the symbol Zn and atomic number 30. It is a bluish-white metal that is brittle at room temperature and pressure but becomes malleable and ductile when heated above 100–150 °C. Pure zinc is generally not used in its elemental form due to its brittleness. Instead, it is most commonly used in alloys such as brass and bronze, or as a protective coating for steel through galvanization.

Galvanization is a process where a layer of zinc is applied to steel or iron to prevent rusting. This is achieved by dipping the metal into a molten zinc bath. The zinc coating acts as a sacrificial anode, meaning it corrodes preferentially to the underlying steel, thereby protecting it. This application is widespread in construction, automotive industries, and for creating everyday items like nails and wire.

Other important uses of zinc metal include die casting, where it is alloyed with aluminum and magnesium, and in the production of batteries. Zinc is also used in the chemical industry, for example, in the manufacture of zinc oxide, which has applications in rubber, ceramics, paints, and pharmaceuticals. Historically, zinc was obtained from ores like calamine and sphalerite. Modern production involves electrolytic or pyrometallurgical processes.

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