Zirconium is a highly versatile metal that has a wide range of applications. Its resistance to corrosion and ability to withstand high temperatures make it an ideal material for use in nuclear reactors, where it is often used as a cladding material for fuel rods. It is also used in the production of various alloys, including those used in the aerospace and chemical industries. Additionally, zirconium is a component in the manufacturing of ceramic and glass materials, as well as in the production of abrasives, pigments, and other chemical compounds.