Welcome to this informative article where we are going to describe the uses of cadmium. In this way, you will be able to know all the benefits that this chemical offers to the industry and to humanity. For this reason, pay great attention to the practical applications of one of the most relevant elements.
What is cadmium used for?
Cadmium is a chemical element on the periodic table that is used in many industries. For example, they use it to obtain metals, stabilizers, batteries, among others. However, before I go into any specifics, it’s good to know a little about this chemical.
Cadmium consists of a chemical that corresponds to the atomic number 48 and is symbolized by the initials Cd. It is a heavy metal, relatively low in abundance, of whitish blue hues and with soft characteristics. It can usually be found in zinc ores.
Over the years, scientists have been able to attribute different very practical applications to it. Below we describe the cadmium uses with more impact on society.
Manufacture of rechargeable batteries
Its metallic characteristics are very effective in the battery construction especially rechargeable. In the same way, it is used to enhance products such as power tools, camcorders, computers, telephones, among others in the electronics industry.
Manufacture of pigments and paints
The bright yellow, red and orange pigments are achieved through cadmium. Consequently, any coating, apart from the necessary plastics, contains this chemical element in its composition.
Uses of cadmium in metal manufacturing
Cadmium plays a very important role both in the manufacture and in the finishing of metals. It is included in processes of galvanizing and electroplating with the objective of prevent corrosion and oxidation.
Uses of cadmium as a PVC stabilizer
The cadmium based stabilizers they are frequently seen on window and door frames, as well as drains and water pipes. It is also used in electrical insulation and the manufacture of hoses. As a result, the materials are prevented from suffering degradation from the sun’s rays or heat.
Uses of cadmium in electrodeposition
Cadmium is highly sought after in electrodeposition, because it serves as an excellent rectifier coating. Likewise, it is quite effective for building accumulators.
As cadmium hydroxide
One of the most important compounds for the industry is cadmium hydroxide. In fact, it is one of the main components for the construction of negative electrodes in power companies.
As cadmium oxide
The rust cadmium It is also very important, as it plays a great role as a catalyst. It is used in the hydrogenation and synthesis of different substances, without forgetting its use in the manufacture of enamels.
As cadmium chloride
The cadmium chloride is another of the most relevant derivatives, as it is vital for the electroplating. In the same way, they fulfill an essential role in the dry cleaning and photography.
How alloy component
Cadmium has become one of the main ingredients of alloys, especially those with a low melting point. Therefore, it is very common in alloys of bearings of cars where there is great resistance to fatigue and a low coefficient of friction.
Other uses of cadmium
The electric accumulators with cadmium and nickel alloys are part of its most important applications. Similarly, it is used in the construction of neutron flux control rods in the atomic industries.
Cadmium Safety Data
Over time, many people have expressed concern about their health when exposed to this chemical element. In this sense, coming into contact with products that contain this metal in a light way is not a problem. For example, ceramics, paintings and doors they could have cadmium in their composition.
In any case, its use has been restricted in any product or material that will be used by children. This has been done because the little ones are more likely to bite glasses, toys or any other type of object. Of course, a responsible use does not pose any risk to the body.
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