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Similar to copper, zinc is a mineral with multiple applications
and is mainly used in:
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The Automotive
industry: Zinc represents around 40 percent of
the galvanized metals market. Approximately 9 out of 10
cars in circulation in the North American continent have
one or several galvanized pieces or an average 15 kilos
of zinc per car. |
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Also, due to their
intrinsic nature, zinc batteries are more efficient that
other current systems, which could have a significant
impact on the electric car sector. Representatives from
this industry estimate a market growth of 5 – 10
percent in the next 10 years. |
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Construction:
Zinc, in particular galvanized corrugated sheets used
to build structures or roof areas, last for approximately
50 years. |
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Domestic Appliances:
Zinc is used for electric domestic appliances, such as
refrigerators and dishwashers. |
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Information
Sector: The main zinc innovation is “zinc-air”
batteries which have replaced mercury batteries. These
zinc-based batteries can be recharged for a limitless
time, without losing their chemical or physical characteristics.
They are a source of clean and lasting energy, although
their impact on the environment has yet to be determined. |
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