Q: I’ve been using zirconium to handle a nitric acid solution but am still experiencing corrosion? I’m not sure why or if there is a better option?
A: Zirconium bolts offer some of the best corrosion resistance to nitric acid as well as sulfuric acid and hydrochloric acid, even at high temperatures. The reason you may be experiencing corrosion is that I noticed you said a nitric acid solution – if this solution is contaminated with any oxidizers such as ferric chlorides, it can cause rapid corrosion in zirconium fasteners. Since you are having corrosion issues with zirconium bolts, you may want need to look a tantalum fastener solution. Tantalum screws are very expensive but the ultimate in corrosion protection.