Abstract

Zinc is a relatively active metal and its compounds are stable. Since it is not found free in Nature, it was discovered later than less-reactive metals. The main application of zinc is to protect iron and other metals from corrosion. Occurrence and properties of zinc are discussed. Processing of the ore requires concentration of the ore followed by roasting, or reduction by electrolytic methods. Economic data, specifications and grades, health and safety factors are given. The uses of zinc coatings on iron and steel are described as die-casting alloys and foundry alloys. Rolled zinc and zinc dust and powder also find industrial use. Ores exploited for zinc invariably contain one or more other valuable metals, such as cadmium and mercury.