Zinc’s Surprising Uses: Applications You Didn’t Know!

Galvanization, a crucial process in protecting steel from corrosion, is one of the most well-known applications of zinc. However, the reach of this versatile element extends far beyond just rust prevention. The International Zinc Association (IZA) actively promotes the sustainable use of zinc across various industries, highlighting its importance in fields like agriculture, where zinc is essential for healthy plant growth. Furthermore, zinc oxide, a compound derived from zinc, features prominently in sunscreen formulations, safeguarding skin from harmful UV rays. These diverse instances only scratch the surface of the truly surprising applications of zinc.

Zinc: it’s likely something you don’t think about often. Yet, this unassuming element silently underpins countless aspects of modern life.

From protecting colossal steel structures against the relentless onslaught of rust to fortifying our immune systems against illness, zinc’s influence is pervasive.

Did you know that approximately 13 million tons of zinc are produced globally each year? This staggering figure underscores the sheer demand for this versatile metal. A demand fueled by its extraordinary properties and diverse applications.

But beyond its widespread usage, many of zinc’s most significant roles remain surprisingly obscure to the average person.

What is Zinc? A Brief Overview

Zinc (Zn) is a metallic chemical element, a vital component in the periodic table. It boasts a unique combination of properties: corrosion resistance, high strength, and excellent castability.

These characteristics make it an indispensable material across various industries. From construction and automotive to healthcare and agriculture, zinc’s presence is undeniable.

The Significance of Zinc

The true importance of zinc lies in its unparalleled versatility. It’s not merely a single-use material; rather, a multifaceted element that enhances the performance, longevity, and sustainability of countless products and systems.

Zinc plays a critical role in galvanizing steel, a process that extends the lifespan of bridges, buildings, and vehicles. It also forms the backbone of numerous alloys used in precision manufacturing.

Furthermore, zinc oxide is a key ingredient in sunscreens, protecting our skin from harmful UV radiation. And, crucially, zinc is an essential nutrient for human health, supporting immune function and overall well-being.

Exploring Zinc’s Hidden Potential

Despite its widespread use, much of zinc’s true potential remains untapped in the public consciousness.

This article seeks to illuminate the diverse and often surprising applications of zinc that extend far beyond common knowledge.

We will delve into the science behind its effectiveness, explore real-world examples of its impact, and examine the future of this remarkable element.

Prepare to discover the unseen world of zinc, a world where science, technology, and everyday life converge.

Zinc’s remarkable properties extend far beyond the realm of simple elemental chemistry; they translate into tangible benefits that shape our physical world. Perhaps the most significant of these benefits is zinc’s potent ability to combat corrosion. This makes it an indispensable component in safeguarding infrastructure, vehicles, and countless other essential items.

Galvanization: Zinc’s Shield Against Corrosion

Corrosion, in its various forms, poses a constant threat to the integrity of metals, particularly steel and iron. Rust, the common name for iron oxide, weakens structures, compromises safety, and leads to costly repairs and replacements. This is where zinc, through the process of galvanization, steps in as a silent guardian.

The Unrivaled Corrosion Resistance of Zinc

At its core, galvanization leverages zinc’s inherent corrosion resistance. Zinc corrodes far more slowly than steel in many environments. When exposed to the atmosphere, zinc reacts with oxygen and carbon dioxide to form a dense, adherent, and insoluble layer of zinc carbonate.

This layer acts as a natural barrier, preventing moisture and other corrosive elements from reaching the underlying steel. It’s a self-healing shield, meaning if the zinc coating is scratched or damaged, the zinc will corrode preferentially, protecting the exposed steel.

Delving Deep: The Galvanization Process

Galvanization isn’t merely painting steel with zinc. It’s a sophisticated process that creates a metallurgical bond between the zinc coating and the steel substrate. Several galvanization methods exist, but hot-dip galvanizing is the most widely used.

Hot-Dip Galvanizing: An Immersive Protective Bath

In hot-dip galvanizing, steel components are submerged in a bath of molten zinc at temperatures around 450°C (842°F). During immersion, a series of zinc-iron alloy layers form through a metallurgical reaction.

These layers are tightly bonded to the steel, providing exceptional adhesion and abrasion resistance. The result is a robust, multi-layered coating that provides long-lasting protection against corrosion, even in harsh environments.

Other Galvanization Methods

Other methods like electrogalvanizing (using an electric current to deposit zinc) and zinc spraying offer alternative approaches. While they have their own specific applications and advantages, hot-dip galvanizing remains the gold standard for many structural applications due to its durability and cost-effectiveness.

How Galvanization Effectively Prevents Rust

The effectiveness of galvanization hinges on two key mechanisms: barrier protection and sacrificial protection (also known as cathodic protection).

As mentioned before, the zinc coating forms a physical barrier, preventing corrosive substances from reaching the steel. However, even if the coating is breached, the zinc continues to protect the steel through sacrificial action.

Zinc is more electrochemically active than steel. So, when the two metals are in contact in the presence of an electrolyte (like water), the zinc corrodes preferentially, sacrificing itself to protect the steel.

This means that even if the steel is exposed, the zinc will corrode first, preventing the formation of rust. It is this dual-action mechanism that makes galvanization such a potent and reliable corrosion prevention strategy.

Galvanization in Action: Real-World Examples

The benefits of galvanization are evident in countless structures and products that we encounter daily. Its application spans a broad spectrum of industries.

• Bridges and Infrastructure: Bridges, highway barriers, and other critical infrastructure elements rely heavily on galvanization to withstand the elements and ensure long-term safety. The Golden Gate Bridge, for example, relies on galvanized steel for corrosion protection.

• Vehicles: Car bodies, truck frames, and various automotive components are often galvanized to prevent rust and extend the lifespan of vehicles. This is especially important in regions with harsh winters and road salt.

• Construction: Buildings, transmission towers, and fencing use galvanized steel to resist corrosion. Galvanized roofing and siding are also popular choices for their durability and low maintenance.

• Agriculture: Galvanized steel is used extensively in agricultural applications, such as fencing, livestock pens, and irrigation systems, where exposure to moisture and chemicals is common.

• Everyday Items: From streetlights to playground equipment, galvanization protects a wide range of everyday items from the ravages of corrosion, extending their useful life and reducing the need for frequent replacements.

The widespread use of galvanization underscores its importance in preserving the integrity of our infrastructure and manufactured goods. By providing a robust shield against corrosion, zinc plays a critical role in ensuring safety, sustainability, and economic efficiency across numerous sectors.

Zinc in Manufacturing: Die Casting and Beyond

Having explored zinc’s crucial role in safeguarding against corrosion, it’s time to turn our attention to its equally significant contribution to the world of manufacturing. Zinc’s versatility extends beyond protection; it’s a key ingredient in creating a wide range of durable and precisely engineered components. One manufacturing process, in particular, showcases zinc’s unique capabilities: die casting.

The Precision of Die Casting

Die casting is a manufacturing process where molten metal is forced under high pressure into reusable mold cavities. These molds, known as dies, are meticulously crafted to produce parts with intricate designs and tight tolerances. This process stands apart from other casting methods because of its ability to create complex shapes with exceptional accuracy and repeatability.

The result is a high-volume production of components that require minimal machining or finishing.

This makes die casting an ideal choice for industries demanding both precision and efficiency.

Zinc Alloys: The Material of Choice for Die Casting

While various metals can be used in die casting, zinc alloys hold a prominent position due to their advantageous properties. Zinc alloys possess a lower melting point compared to other commonly cast metals like aluminum or brass.

This lower melting point translates into energy savings and extended die life.

Furthermore, zinc alloys exhibit exceptional fluidity, allowing them to fill even the most intricate mold details with ease. This results in parts with sharp edges, smooth surfaces, and dimensional accuracy that is difficult to achieve with other materials.

Beyond these processing advantages, zinc alloys also offer impressive mechanical properties. They boast high strength, hardness, and impact resistance, ensuring the durability and longevity of the final product.

Advantages of Zinc Die Casting

The selection of zinc in die casting is not arbitrary; it is a decision driven by a multitude of advantages that zinc offers over competing materials.

Superior Mechanical Properties

Zinc alloys offer a favorable combination of strength, ductility, and impact resistance. This enables the production of parts that can withstand demanding operating conditions and stresses without compromising their structural integrity.

Exceptional Dimensional Accuracy and Stability

Die casting with zinc alloys allows for the creation of parts with incredibly tight tolerances and consistent dimensions. This is particularly crucial in applications where precise fit and function are paramount.

Excellent Castability and Thin-Wall Capability

Zinc’s high fluidity enables the production of complex shapes and thin-walled parts that are difficult or impossible to achieve with other die-casting alloys. This opens up design possibilities and allows for weight reduction in final products.

Cost-Effectiveness

The lower melting point of zinc alloys translates to energy savings during the die-casting process. Furthermore, zinc die castings often require minimal finishing operations, reducing labor costs and overall production time. Zinc’s extended die life allows for more production runs before replacement.

Applications Across Industries

The advantages of zinc die casting have made it a preferred manufacturing method across a wide range of industries.

• Automotive: Zinc die castings are used in various automotive components, including door handles, carburetors, fuel pumps, and decorative trim.
• Electronics: Zinc alloys are ideal for manufacturing intricate parts used in electronic devices, such as connectors, housings, and heat sinks.
• Hardware: Zinc die castings are commonly used in the production of hardware components, including locks, hinges, and handles.
• Appliances: Zinc is found in small appliance parts, providing durability and aesthetic appeal.

In conclusion, zinc’s contribution to manufacturing, particularly through die casting, is undeniable. Its unique combination of properties makes it an indispensable material for creating durable, precise, and cost-effective components across numerous industries. As manufacturing processes continue to evolve, zinc is poised to maintain its pivotal role, enabling the production of innovative and high-performance products.

Having explored zinc’s crucial role in safeguarding against corrosion, it’s time to turn our attention to its equally significant contribution to the world of manufacturing. Zinc’s versatility extends beyond protection; it’s a key ingredient in creating a wide range of durable and precisely engineered components. One manufacturing process, in particular, showcases zinc’s unique capabilities: die casting.

But the story of zinc’s usefulness doesn’t end with industry and manufacturing. Its compounds find their way into our everyday lives in unexpected and often essential ways. One such compound, zinc oxide, plays a vital role in protecting our skin from the sun’s harmful rays and boasts a surprising range of other applications.

Zinc Oxide: Sunscreen and Beyond

When we think of sun protection, zinc oxide is increasingly becoming a familiar ingredient. But its benefits extend far beyond just shielding us from sunburn. Let’s delve into the science behind zinc oxide’s effectiveness and explore its various advantages.

The Science of Mineral Sunscreen

Zinc oxide functions as a mineral sunscreen, also known as a physical sunscreen. Unlike chemical sunscreens that absorb UV radiation, zinc oxide creates a physical barrier on the skin’s surface. This barrier reflects and scatters both UVA and UVB rays, preventing them from penetrating the skin.

This mechanism offers broad-spectrum protection, safeguarding against the full range of harmful solar radiation. The effectiveness of zinc oxide hinges on its particle size and concentration within the sunscreen formulation.

Blocking UV Radiation: How Zinc Oxide Works

At a microscopic level, zinc oxide particles form a protective layer that acts like countless tiny mirrors. These mirrors deflect the sun’s rays away from the skin. The FDA considers zinc oxide to be generally recognized as safe and effective (GRASE) for sunscreen use.

Its ability to remain stable under sunlight and its non-irritating properties make it a reliable choice for sun protection.

Zinc Oxide vs. Chemical Sunscreens: A Comparative Look

The sunscreen market offers a variety of options, broadly categorized into mineral and chemical sunscreens. While both aim to protect against UV damage, their mechanisms and potential effects differ significantly.

How Chemical Sunscreens Work

Chemical sunscreens contain compounds like oxybenzone, avobenzone, and octinoxate. These chemicals absorb UV radiation and convert it into heat, which is then released from the skin.

However, some of these chemicals have raised concerns regarding potential hormone disruption and environmental impact.

The Benefits of Zinc Oxide

Zinc oxide offers several distinct advantages:

• Broad-spectrum Protection: Effectively blocks both UVA and UVB rays.
• Gentle on Skin: Less likely to cause irritation or allergic reactions, making it suitable for sensitive skin and children.
• Photostable: Does not break down or lose effectiveness when exposed to sunlight.
• Environmentally Friendly: Considered safer for coral reefs and aquatic ecosystems compared to some chemical sunscreen ingredients.

Addressing Common Misconceptions

One common misconception is that zinc oxide sunscreens leave a thick, white cast on the skin. While this was often the case with older formulations, modern zinc oxide sunscreens utilize micronized or nano-sized particles.

These smaller particles are transparent and blend more seamlessly into the skin, minimizing the visible white residue.

Beyond Sunscreen: Other Applications of Zinc Oxide

While its role in sunscreen is well-known, zinc oxide’s properties extend to other applications:

• Skincare: Found in creams and ointments for treating skin irritations, eczema, and diaper rash due to its soothing and protective qualities.
• Cosmetics: Used as a pigment and UV absorber in various cosmetic products.
• Industrial Applications: Employed in the manufacturing of rubber, ceramics, and paints due to its chemical and physical properties.

In conclusion, zinc oxide’s effectiveness as a mineral sunscreen stems from its unique ability to physically block UV radiation. When compared to chemical sunscreens, it offers numerous benefits for skin health and environmental safety, making it a valuable ingredient in sun protection and beyond.

Having explored zinc oxide’s external applications, it’s time to look inward and appreciate zinc’s profound impact on our internal well-being. From bolstering our immune defenses to facilitating fundamental biological processes, zinc is an unsung hero in maintaining a healthy life.

Zinc for a Healthy Life: Immunity, Supplements, and Healing

Zinc’s significance extends far beyond industrial applications; it’s a vital nutrient that plays a crucial role in maintaining human health. From supporting a robust immune system to facilitating wound healing, zinc is indispensable for numerous biological processes. Let’s delve into how this mineral contributes to our overall well-being.

Zinc’s Role in Human Health

Zinc is an essential trace element, meaning that while we only need it in small amounts, it is absolutely necessary for our survival. It participates in a vast array of biochemical reactions, making it crucial for various physiological functions.

Immune Function, Cell Growth, and DNA Synthesis

Zinc plays a multifaceted role in maintaining a healthy body. It is a key player in:

• Immune Function: Zinc is vital for the development and function of immune cells. It supports the body’s ability to fight off infections and illnesses.

• Cell Growth: It is essential for cell division and growth, especially during periods of rapid development such as childhood and pregnancy.

• DNA Synthesis: Zinc is required for the creation of DNA, the genetic blueprint of all cells.

In essence, without adequate zinc, these fundamental processes are significantly impaired.

Zinc Deficiency and Its Consequences

Despite its importance, zinc deficiency is a common issue, particularly in developing countries and among individuals with certain health conditions.

The consequences of zinc deficiency can be significant and wide-ranging:

• Impaired Immune Function: Increased susceptibility to infections and slower recovery times.

• Growth Retardation: Children may experience stunted growth and delayed development.

• Skin Problems: Conditions such as dermatitis and acne can be exacerbated.

• Impaired Wound Healing: Wounds may take longer to heal.

• Loss of Appetite: Can lead to further nutritional deficiencies.

• Diarrhea: A common symptom, particularly in children.

Recognizing the signs of zinc deficiency and addressing it through diet or supplementation is crucial for maintaining optimal health.

The Role of Dietary Supplements

For individuals who struggle to obtain sufficient zinc through their diet alone, dietary supplements can be a valuable tool.

Benefits of Zinc Supplements

Zinc supplements can offer numerous benefits, particularly for those at risk of deficiency. These include:

• Boosting Immune Function: Strengthening the body’s defense against infections.
• Supporting Growth and Development: Ensuring healthy growth in children and adolescents.
• Improving Wound Healing: Facilitating faster tissue repair.
• Reducing the Severity of Colds: Zinc lozenges have been shown to shorten the duration of common colds.

It’s important to remember that while supplements can be beneficial, they should not replace a balanced diet.

Different Forms of Zinc Supplements

Zinc supplements are available in various forms, each with its own bioavailability and potential benefits:

• Zinc Picolinate: Well-absorbed by the body.
• Zinc Citrate: Another easily absorbed form, often preferred for its taste.
• Zinc Gluconate: Commonly found in cold lozenges.
• Zinc Sulfate: A less expensive form, but may cause digestive upset in some individuals.
• Zinc Oxide: Poorly absorbed and generally not recommended as a primary supplement.

Choosing the right form of zinc supplement can optimize its effectiveness and minimize potential side effects. Consulting with a healthcare professional is advisable to determine the most suitable option based on individual needs.

Zinc’s Role in Wound Healing

Zinc is a critical component in the process of wound healing. Its involvement in various stages of tissue repair makes it an essential nutrient for recovery.

How Zinc Aids in Tissue Repair and Collagen Production

Zinc plays a vital role in:

• Cell Proliferation: Stimulating the growth of new cells to replace damaged tissue.

• Collagen Synthesis: Collagen is a key structural protein that provides strength and support to the skin and other tissues. Zinc is required for its production.

• Immune Function: Reducing the risk of infection, which can hinder the healing process.

• Inflammation Control: Helps regulate the inflammatory response, preventing excessive inflammation that can delay healing.

By facilitating these processes, zinc helps to accelerate wound closure and promote tissue regeneration.

Zinc Compounds Used in Wound Care

Several zinc compounds are utilized in wound care products to promote healing:

• Zinc Oxide: As discussed previously, its anti-inflammatory and protective properties make it a common ingredient in topical creams and ointments for minor cuts and burns.

• Zinc Sulfate: Can be used in solutions or creams to promote wound healing and reduce the risk of infection.

The application of zinc-containing products can help create an optimal environment for wound healing, leading to faster recovery and reduced scarring.

Zinc’s multifaceted role in human health underscores its importance as an essential nutrient. From strengthening our immune defenses to facilitating wound healing, zinc contributes to our overall well-being in numerous ways. Ensuring adequate zinc intake through a balanced diet or supplementation is a vital step in maintaining a healthy and resilient body.

Having explored zinc’s external applications, it’s time to look inward and appreciate zinc’s profound impact on our internal well-being. From bolstering our immune defenses to facilitating fundamental biological processes, zinc is an unsung hero in maintaining a healthy life.

Zinc in Agriculture: Nourishing Plant Life

While zinc is crucial for human health, its importance extends to the plant kingdom as well. Zinc plays a vital, yet often overlooked, role in ensuring healthy plant growth and robust agricultural productivity. Without adequate zinc, plants cannot thrive, leading to diminished crop yields and compromised nutritional value.

The Multifaceted Role of Zinc in Plant Development

Zinc functions as a critical micronutrient, essential for various physiological and biochemical processes within plants. It’s not just a simple additive; it’s an integral component for optimal plant health.

• Enzyme Activation: Zinc activates numerous enzymes involved in crucial metabolic pathways. These enzymes facilitate processes like photosynthesis, respiration, and nitrogen metabolism.

• Chlorophyll Formation: Zinc is necessary for the synthesis of chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for capturing light energy during photosynthesis. Without sufficient zinc, plants exhibit chlorosis, a yellowing of the leaves due to reduced chlorophyll production.

• Hormone Regulation: Zinc plays a role in the synthesis and regulation of plant hormones, particularly auxins, which control cell elongation, root development, and apical dominance.

• Protein Synthesis: Zinc is essential for the proper folding and function of proteins, ensuring that plants can effectively utilize the nutrients they absorb.

In essence, zinc acts as a catalyst and a structural component, enabling plants to carry out essential functions for growth and reproduction.

The Challenge of Zinc-Deficient Soils

Unfortunately, zinc deficiency in soils is a widespread problem, affecting agricultural regions globally. Several factors contribute to this deficiency:

• High pH Levels: Alkaline soils with high pH levels reduce zinc solubility, making it difficult for plants to absorb the nutrient.

• Calcareous Soils: Soils rich in calcium carbonate can bind zinc, further limiting its availability to plant roots.

• Organic Matter Content: While organic matter is generally beneficial, excessive amounts can sometimes bind zinc, reducing its availability.

• Intensive Cropping: Continuous cultivation without adequate zinc replenishment depletes soil reserves, leading to deficiency over time.

The consequences of zinc deficiency are significant, impacting crop yields and nutritional quality. Zinc deficient plants will exhibit stunted growth, reduced leaf size, and delayed maturity.

• Reduced Crop Yields: Zinc deficiency translates directly into lower yields for various crops, impacting food security and farmer livelihoods.

• Decreased Nutritional Value: Crops grown in zinc-deficient soils have lower zinc concentrations, contributing to human zinc deficiency when consumed. This poses a serious health concern, especially in regions where zinc deficiency is prevalent.

Zinc Fertilizers: A Solution for Enhanced Productivity

To address zinc deficiency, zinc fertilizers are widely used in agriculture. These fertilizers provide a readily available source of zinc for plants, promoting healthy growth and maximizing crop yields.

• Types of Zinc Fertilizers: Various forms of zinc fertilizers are available, including zinc sulfate, zinc oxide, and zinc chelates. The choice of fertilizer depends on soil type, crop requirements, and cost-effectiveness.

• Application Methods: Zinc fertilizers can be applied to the soil before planting, during planting, or as a foliar spray. Soil application ensures long-term zinc availability, while foliar sprays provide a quick boost during critical growth stages.

• Optimizing Fertilizer Use: The correct application rate of zinc fertilizers is crucial. Excessive amounts can lead to zinc toxicity, while insufficient amounts will not effectively address the deficiency. Soil testing is essential to determine the appropriate application rate for specific crops and soil conditions.

By strategically utilizing zinc fertilizers, farmers can mitigate the negative impacts of zinc-deficient soils, ensuring healthy plant growth, increased crop yields, and enhanced nutritional quality of agricultural produce. Addressing zinc deficiency is not merely an agricultural practice, but a critical step towards ensuring global food security and improving human health.

Zinc and Energy: Powering the Future with Batteries

From nourishing plant life to fortifying our own health, zinc’s influence is undeniable. But its potential doesn’t stop there. Now, let’s delve into another fascinating area where zinc is making waves: the realm of energy storage.

Zinc is quietly revolutionizing battery technology, offering a sustainable and efficient alternative to traditional options. Its unique properties make it an ideal candidate for powering our future.

The Role of Zinc in Battery Technologies

Zinc’s electrochemical properties lend themselves well to battery applications. It is abundant, relatively inexpensive, and boasts a high theoretical energy density.

These attributes make it a compelling alternative to lithium in certain contexts, particularly where safety and cost are paramount. From familiar alkaline batteries to cutting-edge zinc-air designs, zinc is powering a diverse range of devices.

Zinc-based batteries are generally considered safer than their lithium-ion counterparts, owing to their inherent chemical stability and reduced risk of thermal runaway. This makes them suitable for applications where safety is a critical concern.

Zinc-Air Batteries: A Breath of Fresh Air for Energy Storage

Among the most promising zinc-based technologies are zinc-air batteries. These batteries harness the power of ambient air to oxidize zinc, generating electricity.

The key advantage of zinc-air batteries lies in their exceptionally high energy density, potentially exceeding that of lithium-ion batteries. This means they can store more energy for a given weight or volume, making them ideal for electric vehicles and grid-scale energy storage.

Another significant benefit is the environmental friendliness of zinc-air technology. The primary reactants are zinc and air, and the discharge product, zinc oxide, can be recycled.

Theoretically, zinc-air batteries present a closed-loop system that minimizes environmental impact.

However, challenges remain in terms of cycle life, power output, and cost-effective production. Ongoing research is focused on overcoming these hurdles to unlock the full potential of zinc-air technology.

Emerging Battery Technologies Utilizing Zinc

Beyond zinc-air, researchers are exploring other innovative ways to harness zinc’s energy storage capabilities. Zinc-ion batteries, for instance, represent a promising alternative to lithium-ion technology.

They offer improved safety, lower cost, and the potential for high energy density. Similarly, zinc-manganese dioxide batteries are gaining traction as a cost-effective and reliable option for various applications.

Flow batteries that incorporate zinc are also being explored for grid-scale energy storage, offering scalability and long cycle life.

These emerging technologies are still in their early stages of development, but they hold great promise for a future powered by sustainable and efficient energy storage solutions.

Sustainability and Efficiency: The Zinc Advantage

Zinc-based energy storage systems offer a compelling combination of sustainability and efficiency. Zinc is an abundant and readily recyclable material, reducing reliance on scarce and environmentally problematic resources.

Furthermore, zinc batteries can be designed for long lifecycles, minimizing waste and maximizing resource utilization. Their inherent safety features contribute to a lower risk of environmental damage.

The shift towards zinc-based batteries aligns with the growing global emphasis on sustainable energy solutions.

As research and development efforts continue to advance, we can expect to see even more innovative and environmentally friendly zinc battery technologies emerge in the years to come. Zinc is not just a metal; it is a key enabler of a cleaner, more sustainable energy future.

Who knew zinc had so many tricks up its metallic sleeve? Hopefully, you’ve learned a thing or two about the surprising applications of zinc. Now you can impress your friends at the next trivia night!