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Learn All About Zinc

Zinc

Found in soil, air, and water.

What is Zinc?

Zinc is a bluish-white, lustrous metal with the chemical symbol Zn. It is the 24th most abundant element in Earth’s crust and the 4th most widely consumed metal globally, behind iron, copper, and aluminum. It is found in soil, air, and water and is present in food. At room temperature, zinc is a slightly brittle metal, but it becomes malleable at 100° C (212° F). Above 210°C, it becomes brittle again and can be pulverized. Zinc and other base metals, such as copper and lead, are commonly found together in mineral deposits.

Zinc’s unique combination of physical and chemical properties makes it indispensable across various sectors, including construction, manufacturing, and electronics. Zinc is also essential for human health, playing a crucial role in immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis.

Zinc was used in Rome and China more than 2000 years ago as a component of brass. Commercial production of zinc did not start in Europe until the middle of the 18th century and in the United States until 1860.

Fun Facts

  • Zinc is the only metal that appears in all enzyme classes, highlighting its biologic significance.
  • Zinc’s ability to form alloys like brass has been exploited for centuries, with brass artifacts dating back to ancient civilizations.

Where to Find Zinc

Uses for Zinc

Alloys Zinc is a key ingredient in various metal alloys. Brass (a combination of zinc and copper) is used in hardware, musical instruments, and decorative objects due to its strength and aesthetic appeal. Zinc-aluminum alloys are also commonly used in die-casting for automotive and industrial parts.
Anti-Corrosion Zinc is widely used to coat steel and iron to prevent rusting and corrosion. This process, called galvanization, significantly enhances the durability of these metals, especially in construction and infrastructure projects like bridges, buildings, and pipelines.
Batteries Zinc is an essential component in various types of batteries due to its electrochemical properties. Zinc batteries, including zinc-carbon (used in remote controls and flashlights) and zinc-air batteries (used in hearing aids), are known for their efficiency and long shelf life. Rechargeable zinc batteries also have potential for electric vehicles and electric grid storage.
Chemical Industry Zinc compounds like zinc chloride and zinc sulfate are used in various chemical processes, including textile production, water treatment, and agriculture.
Cosmetics & Skin Care Zinc oxide is widely used in sunscreens and skin treatments for its protective and anti-inflammatory properties.
Die Casting Zinc’s low melting point and excellent moldability make it ideal for precision die-casting, used extensively in the automotive, electronics, and consumer goods industries.
Health Zinc plays a vital role in human health, supporting immune function, cell growth, and wound healing. It is a common ingredient in dietary supplements and fortified foods.

Related Resources

USGS Zinc Mineral Commodity Summary

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