Zinc Architectural Panels In Construction
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, architects in the US started making sheet-based roofs using zinc. While it was all but forgotten in the years after WWII, due to cheaper thermoplastic and synthetic rubber, zinc architectural panels are now regaining popularity – mainly due to an increased demand for eco-friendly building materials.
Background
Zinc, a silvery-white metal, is a natural element and the 24th most abundant metal in the Earth’s crust. Like other metals, zinc can form certain compounds – for example, the first alloy ever created was brass, a combination of pure zinc and copper. Long before the mining industry grew, zinc was extracted from ores, which are rocks that also contain other metals, like lead and copper.
A Brief History of Zinc
While zinc was known to the Greeks and Romans before 20 B.C., it was not mass-produced until the 12th century. Before being identified as a separate metal by the Swiss-German physician, Paracelsus (1493-1541), zinc was commonly used to make weaponry, buckets, and wall plaques worldwide.
In fact, Europeans did not begin smelting zinc before the end of the 18th century; and the Americans only adopted this process in the mid-19th century.
Today, zinc is one of the most in-demand metals in the world. At the same time, it’s primarily used as a corrosion-resistant coating for galvanizing steel and iron, and it has multiple applications in the world of health, medicine, agriculture, etc.
Mining and Commercial Use
Known as ‘spelter’ in commerce, zinc is the 4th most used metal in the world, with a market of $40 billion. While the largest zinc mine in the world is located in Rajasthan, India, over 50 countries worldwide mine zinc, with China, Australia, Canada, and the US being the largest producers.
Currently, the zinc architectural panel is used around the world for roofing and exterior cladding on buildings and other structures. To add to its uses, zinc alloys are ideal for die casting, which is one of the most commonly used manufacturing processes. Its applications are widespread, and zinc alloy dies casting can be used for numerous decorative and functional purposes.
Benefits of Zinc Architectural Panels
Durable and Resistant to Corrosion
One major issue in constructing with iron or steel (an iron and carbon alloy) is rust caused by moisture. Zinc use solves this problem by preventing corrosion. Pure zinc creates a protective layer called Patina, guarding against natural elements. This is why industries coat and galvanize iron and steel with zinc, increasing durability.
In the 19th century, Europeans created the first zinc roofs which remain intact due to zinc’s “self-healing” property. Scratches prompt the development of patina, effectively “healing” the material in an exterior setting.
Available and Practical
Zinc, aluminum, and iron are extensively used in various industries. Zinc has five isotopes and is readily available, easy to use, and simple to handle, making it a preferred choice for builders and architectural firms globally.
Awarded The “Green” Tag
Green construction is quite popular nowadays due to extreme climate changes worldwide. Construction firms and homeowners are both working to reduce energy costs and the production of harmful emissions. Known as a “green” metal, Zinc requires less energy than other metals like aluminum and copper. It also has a relatively lower melting point and can be recycled indefinitely without losing its chemical or physical properties.
Fun Facts About Zinc
- Despite being a metal, zinc is an essential nutrient for both humans and plants. Zinc exists in human cells, crucial for the immune system, disease resistance, wound healing, and digestion. It also amplifies the sense of taste and smell.
- Zinc has such a long half-life that its radioactivity is almost non-existent.
- Zinc has been in use as early as 1000 B.C.
- Pure zinc releases hydrogen gas in contact with sulfuric acid.
- Zinc has a high boiling point of 907*C and high electrical conductivity.
- When burned, zinc produces a bright blue-green flare.
- Zinc can be blended with and even used to highlight other materials, making it popular for constructing facades.