Despite the fact that it is a little-known metal, its surprising characteristics make it an element widely used by man. Bismuth is one of the first chemical elements to be discovered, and in the past it used to be confused with others such as lead or tin, since they have several characteristics in common.
Bismuth can be found in the earth in mineral form and as a metal. However, it is a bit rare, so it is usually obtained after refining lead or copper. Next, we will talk to you more about the main uses of this crystalline metal.
Uses of bismuth in everyday life
Uses of bismuth to make cosmetics
Among the main compounds of bismuth is found the bismuth oxychloride (or BiOCl, by its chemical formula), which is widely used in the processes of cosmetic manufacturing. Thanks to it, the necessary pigments are produced to obtain eye shadows and nail polishes.
Similarly, another use in the area of cosmetics is the production of hair sprays, due to its ability to refract light, which helps reduce frizz and adds shine.
Uses of bismuth in technology
For the production of security seals
One of the main characteristics of bismuth is that it can form alloys with a low melting point. Thanks to this, it is possible to use said chemical element to produce security seals, which are fundamental devices to prevent accidents. These stamps are used in water heaters and cylinders for compressed gas.
Alloy with tin and other metals
Lead is an element that, widely used in industry, mainly in alloy with tin. However, it is toxic to humans, so its use has begun to be restricted and decreased.
As mentioned at the beginning of this article, bismuth resembles lead in some ways, so bismuth can be used in alloy with tin to make: bullets, fishing sinkers, pellets, shot, etc.
To make welds
Bismuth can also substitute for lead in the manufacture of different types of welds, which are used in: electronic devices, household appliances, food processing equipment, pipelines, etc.
In the manufacture of fire extinguishers and fire detectors
As mentioned earlier, bismuth can form alloys that are notable for having a low melting point. This occurs when this element is combined with other metals such as iron, tin or cadmium. These alloys are widely used for manufacture fire extinguishers and fire detectors.
As a protective coating on fuel tanks
It is well known that fuels such as gasoline are highly flammable compounds, which is why they need to be stored in special containers.
Thanks to its physicochemical properties, bismuth is the ideal element for manufacture safety caps, which provide protection in tanks that store fuel.
Uses of bismuth as a chemical catalyst
Bismuth is a metal that has the ability to decrease the level of energy needed to carry out certain chemical reactions, which is why it is used as catalyst in making rubber Y synthetic fibers.
Uses of bismuth in medicine
As protection against radiation from X-rays
X-rays are radioactive and highly harmful to our body. However, because bismuth is quite dense, it can be used for coat the latex and thus develop shields to protect specialists from the incidence of X-rays.
In the manufacture of drugs
Undoubtedly, this is another of the main applications of this metal, being used to make bismuth subsalicylate. This compound is used in the drug manufacturing to combat diarrhea and combat intestinal and stomach diseases caused by certain bacteria.
Uses of bismuth in renewable energy
As an alternative to solar panels.
The implementation of the bismuth instead of lead to build more stable solar cells that provide renewable energy. This research is being carried out by a group of Spanish scientists belonging to various institutions and universities in Spain.