What is Nickel Oxide

Nickel oxide is a waste compound produced by the Nicaro nickel plant during processing, and it symbolizes the real bloody purpose behind the production of nickel. The Nicaro nickel mine is reopened for an urgent reason: war. “The government built it during World War II, and shut it down when the war ended. They were starting it up again because of the war in Korea. They needed nickel for armor plating, airplane cladding, all sorts of munitions” (86). Nickel oxide is a red dust, and it coats the town of Nicaro in blood-like residue which the residents grow used to but which shocks La Maziere when he passes through.