Zirconium Zr Sponge (oxygen getter)

Zirconium sponge is a high-purity, porous form of metallic zirconium (Zr), which is widely used in getter materials, nuclear-grade components, zirconium alloy production, and vacuum system purifiers.

At Princeton Materials, we offer zirconium sponge in multiple grades—ranging from industrial to nuclear-grade purity, with customizable particle sizes and hafnium content.

Zirconium Zr Sponge (oxygen getter)

Formula

Zirconium Zr

Synonyms

Zirconium Sponge, Zirconium granule, Zirconium Pellet, Zirconium particle

Appearance

Black pellet

Particle Size

can be customized upon request

Melting Point

1852 °C

Density

 6.5 g/cm 3

Tensile Strength, Ultimate

N/A

Tensile Strength, Yield

N/A

Description of Zirconium Zr Sponge

Zirconium (Zr) sponge is a high-purity, porous metallic form of zirconium produced through the reduction of zirconium tetrachloride (ZrCl₄) via the Kroll process. Known for its low density, high surface area, and strong gettering properties, zirconium sponge is ideal for nuclear, vacuum, and chemical applications requiring high reactivity. Its low neutron absorption cross-section makes it essential in the nuclear industry for manufacturing zirconium alloys used as fuel rod cladding in reactors. In addition, Zr sponge is widely used in specialty alloy production, vacuum purification systems, and chemical processing equipment.

Princeton Powder is a trusted zirconium sponge supplier, offering high-purity Zr sponge, zirconium pellets, and custom zirconium materials tailored for nuclear, aerospace, and industrial markets. With extensive expertise and a commitment to quality, we provide reliable solutions and technical support to meet your critical material needs.

Granular Zirconium Sponge Chemical Composition

BrandChemical Composition %
 Zr+HfOSiCNCl
 
Firearms class99.400.1400.0100.0500.0100.130
Industrial class99.800.1000.0100.0200.0100.130
Size3-35 mm, 1-3 mm, 3-5 mm
Packing20kg/ barrel , 100 kg/barrel, 20kg / barrel, or 100kg / barrel

High-Purity Zirconium Sponge Applications

  • Zirconium sponge for Getter materials in vacuum tubes, lamps, and electron devices
  • Zirconium sponge for vacuum purifiers and gas scavenging systems
  • Zirconium sponge for Hydrogen storage
  • Zirconium sponge for powder metallurgy
  • Zirconium sponge for nuclear fuel cladding and reactor-grade components
  • Zirconium alloy production (e.g., Zr-Nb, Zircaloy)

Zirconium Zr Sponge Reference

Study for Production of Zirconium Sponge by Separated-Reduction Process

  • Zirconium sponge is produced by Kroll process which is a single batch process in a two-part vessel, with the zirconium tetrachloride loaded into the top portion and the magnesium metal loaded in the bottom. In such system, the amount of zirconium which can be produced in a single batch is severely limited and feed of zirconium tetrachloride into the bottom portion can only be roughly controlled.

Zirconium Zr Sponge FAQ

  • What is Zirconium Zr Sponge? Zirconium Zr Sponge is a porous, granular form of zirconium metal, produced by reducing zirconium tetrachloride (ZrCl₄) with magnesium in a high-temperature process. It is known for its high purity and excellent corrosion resistance.

  • What is the difference between Zirconium Zr Sponge and Zirconium Metal? The primary difference lies in the form: Zirconium Zr Sponge is a porous, granular material, while zirconium metal is typically a solid metal. The sponge form is often used as a precursor in further processing to produce refined zirconium metal products.

  • How is Zirconium Zr Sponge produced? Zirconium Zr Sponge is produced through the Kroll process, where zirconium tetrachloride (ZrCl₄) is reduced by magnesium in a high-temperature environment to create porous zirconium sponge. The sponge is then purified to remove any impurities or residual magnesium.

  • How should Zirconium Zr Sponge be stored? Zirconium Zr Sponge should be stored in a dry, controlled environment to prevent contamination and oxidation. It is usually stored in sealed containers to maintain its purity and avoid moisture absorption.

  • What industries use Zirconium Zr Sponge? Zirconium Zr Sponge is used in nuclear reactors for fuel cladding, in aerospace for high-temperature alloys, and in chemical industries for manufacturing corrosion-resistant components. It is also used in the production of specialized ceramics and in certain biomedical applications.