Zirconium and its alloys are used in many harsh environments and applications because of their excellent corrosion resistance. They corrode at very low rates in media from strong acids to strong alkaline solutions. Media, that attack zirconium, include hydrofluoric acid, concentrated sulfuric acid, and certain dry organic halides. In chloride solutions, although zirconium and its alloys are resistant to crevice corrosion, they are susceptible to other forms of localized corrosion such as pitting and stress corrosion cracking. However, zirconium and its alloys are susceptible to crevice corrosion in fluoride solutions and sulfuric acid. This paper gives a overview on the corrosion of zirconium and its alloys in a broad range of corrosives. Important factors that affect their corrosion properties are discussed. Measures for combating localized corrosion are presented. Examples of zirconium's applications are given. Safety issues are also covered.
Keywords: Zirconium, corrosion, applications, localized corrosion, delayed hydride cracking, safety.