Iridium And Its Alloys

Iridium And Its Alloys

Iridium is a rare, silvery-white metallic element with the atomic number 77 and symbol Ir. It is one of the densest and most corrosion-resistant metals known, and is also one of the most expensive. Iridium is found in nature as an alloy with platinum and other metals, and is typically obtained as a byproduct of platinum mining. It is a hard, brittle metal that is difficult to work with, but has a high melting point and is highly resistant to heat and wear. Iridium is used in a variety of applications, including as a hardening agent in platinum alloys for jewelry, as a catalyst in chemical reactions, and in electrical contacts and spark plugs due to its high melting point and resistance to corrosion. It is also used in scientific instruments, such as X-ray telescopes and particle accelerators, due to its high density and ability to withstand extreme conditions. Iridium alloys are also used in a variety of applications, including in the aerospace industry for rocket engine nozzles and turbine blades, as well as in the medical industry for pacemaker electrodes and other implantable devices. Iridium alloys are highly resistant to corrosion and wear, and are able to withstand high temperatures and extreme environments. Despite its many useful properties, iridium is a rare and expensive metal, and its use is often limited to high-end applications where its unique properties are essential. However, ongoing research into new applications for iridium and its alloys may lead to new uses and broader availability in the future.

iridium, metallic element, corrosion-resistant, platinum alloys, catalyst, electrical contacts, spark plugs, X-ray telescopes, rocket engine nozzles, turbine blades, pacemaker electrodes, implantable devices, rare, expensive

— Nicholas Gray

CITATION : "Nicholas Gray. 'Iridium And Its Alloys.' Design+Encyclopedia. https://design-encyclopedia.com/?E=359039 (Accessed on October 08, 2024)"