Common uses of iridium

Iridium is a rare precious metal belonging to the platinum group of metals. It is known for its excellent corrosion resistance, high temperature resistance and extremely high density, so it has unique application value in many fields. Although the natural reserves of iridium are relatively small, due to its excellent physical and chemical properties, iridium plays a vital role in many high-tech industries. This article will introduce the common uses of iridium and explore how it affects progress in various fields.

Basic properties of iridium

Iridium is one of the most corrosion-resistant metals in nature and is almost unaffected by acids, alkalis, salts and other chemicals. Its melting point is as high as 2446°C, which is one of the metals with the highest known melting points. Iridium has a very large density of about 22.56 g/cm3, second only to gold and platinum. Therefore, iridium has unparalleled advantages in some extreme environments, especially high temperature and highly corrosive environments.

Common uses of iridium

Aerospace: The application of iridium in the aerospace field is particularly important. Due to its extremely high temperature resistance and good electrical conductivity, iridium is often used to manufacture key components of aircraft engines. These components must work stably at extremely high temperatures, and iridium's excellent heat resistance makes it an ideal material.

1. Iridium is also used to make nozzles and other high-temperature parts of rocket engines. Under certain high-pressure and high-temperature conditions, iridium can maintain its structural integrity and will not be melted or damaged. Therefore, iridium is widely used in spacecraft, especially in missions that require long-term and high-intensity operation.

2. Automotive industry: Iridium is also widely used in the automotive industry, especially in engine ignition systems. Iridium alloy spark plugs are more durable than traditional platinum spark plugs due to their high-temperature and corrosion resistance. Iridium spark plugs can provide a more stable ignition effect, helping the engine to work more efficiently, thereby improving fuel efficiency and reducing emissions. Therefore, iridium is very popular in high-performance cars, especially in racing cars and high-end models, where iridium spark plugs are standard.

3. Catalyst: As a precious metal, the catalytic effect of iridium in the chemical industry cannot be ignored. Iridium catalysts are widely used in petroleum refining, chemical synthesis, and environmental protection technology. Iridium has a strong catalytic property and can accelerate a variety of chemical reactions. In the process of petroleum refining, iridium catalysts help decompose heavy oil and improve the quality of products. In the field of environmental protection, iridium is also used to reduce harmful substances in automobile exhaust. It is one of the effective catalysts for purifying exhaust.

4. Medical field: The application of iridium in the medical field is also of great significance. Iridium-192 isotope is widely used in cancer treatment, especially in radiotherapy. The high-energy rays of iridium-192 can effectively kill cancer cells while having little effect on surrounding normal tissues. Iridium is also used in some medical instruments, such as high-precision sensors and micro-detectors, using iridium's high stability and excellent conductivity to improve the performance of these devices.

5. Jewelry and high-end decorations: The rarity and noble properties of iridium make it an important material in high-end jewelry and decorations. Iridium is often used in alloys with other precious metals such as platinum to create jewelry with special luster and durability. Due to its high density and hardness, iridium is also often used to make some special commemorative coins or medals as a symbol of commemorating special moments or people.

6. Electrical and electronic equipment: Iridium's excellent conductivity and corrosion resistance make it widely used in electrical and electronic equipment. For example, iridium is used as a material for making high-precision electrical contacts. In some special battery technologies, iridium is also used to improve battery durability and energy efficiency. Iridium is also used in various sensors, especially those that require high temperatures and strong corrosive environments.

7. Corrosion-resistant equipment: Due to its extremely strong corrosion resistance, iridium is widely used in the manufacture of some special equipment. For example, iridium is used to make the lining of chemical reactors to prevent equipment from being damaged when exposed to corrosive chemicals. In some chemical plants and laboratories, iridium is also often used in the manufacture of acid-resistant containers. These devices can withstand extreme acidic or alkaline environments, thereby extending their service life and improving work efficiency.

8. Investment and collection: Due to the scarcity of iridium and the properties of precious metals, it also has a certain demand in the investment market. Many precious metal investors will choose iridium as an alternative investment asset. Although the market demand for iridium is relatively niche, its scarcity and high value make it a place in the precious metal market.

Iridium recycling and sustainability

With the growing demand for iridium in industry, how to effectively recycle and reuse iridium has become particularly important. The high price and scarcity of iridium make its recycling have high economic value. Currently, iridium recycling mainly relies on waste electronic equipment, automotive catalysts and other iridium-containing waste. These recycling methods not only help reduce production costs, but also reduce the consumption of iridium mineral resources, thereby promoting sustainable development.

Iridium's unique physical and chemical properties make it play an important role in multiple high-tech industries. From aerospace to the automotive industry, from medical applications to catalysts, iridium's application range is wide and far-reaching. With the development of technology and the increase in industrial demand, the value of iridium will be further highlighted, and its recycling and reuse will also become an important part of sustainable development.