If you don’t know what the uses of iridium are, this is the informative article for you. We are specialists in the scientific field and we want to provide you with detailed knowledge of chemical elements. Therefore, pay close attention to all the industrial, scientific and historical applications of this component.
What is the iridium used for?
Metallic iridium is commonly used in industrial catalysis, recrystallization crucibles, spark plugs, and semiconductors. Over time, scientists have been able to associate this element with numerous beneficial applications for society. Before we talk about each of them, we’d like to introduce you to iridium a bit better.
Iridium is a chemical element which corresponds to the atomic number 77, being symbolized with the initials Ir. It consists of a transition metal, belonging to the platinum group. It is characterized by being fragile and hard at the same time, quite heavy and with silvery white colors.
Below we describe the uses of iridium that have caused the most impact on humanity.
Uses of iridium as an alloying element
The iridium alloys with platinum, as with Bosnian, are very important in the industry. They are very outstanding because they wear out little, being common in the manufacture of different structures. For example, this combination is common in scales and compasses.
Airplane parts
Iridium has become a very relevant metal for the aviation industry. Part of the aircraft engines are built with iridium alloyed with titanium. This is done due to its resistance to corrosion.
Acetic acid production
The carbonization of methanol produces acetic acid, and for this, a iridium compounds. These are used as substance catalysts in a process known as Cativa.
Robust devices
Devices of all kinds that need to be exposed to extreme temperatures They are made with iridium. One of the clearest examples is the high-temperature crucibles used to produce single-crystal oxide.
Spark plug manufacturing
Spark plugs are an essential part of the operation of a vehicle, and are subjected to very high temperatures. Thanks to the iridium resistance, it is possible to build high strength spark plugs.
Uses of iridium in physics
In particle physics, iridium is used to a large extent for the production of antiprotons. It is actually a form of antimatter, produced by firing a high-density beam of protons.
Fountain pens
The osmium alloys such as iridium are very practical in the construction of fountain pens. In fact, it was one of the first uses given to this element.
Uses of iridium in medicine
Iridium is very effective as a source of gamma radiation. So it’s a great way to treat cancer through brachytherapy. Finally, it has been used as a power source for lightning machines.
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