Uses of Iridium

Iridium is a stable metal that rarely reacts chemically and it is the most corrosive resistance of all the metals.

• It is mainly used is as a hardening agent in Platinum alloys.

• Used in treating prostate and other cancers by high dose radiation therapy.

• Used in the manufacture of crucibles, special containers and other apparatus resistant to intense heat.

• Alloyed with Platinum to make heavy duty electrical contacts such as high performance technically advanced spark plugs for use in the automotive and aviation industries.

• Very brittle and extremely difficult to machine but is available as sheet, wire, powder and sponge.

• As a catalyst to produce acetic acid.

• Iridium alloyed with Osmium is used to tip fountain pen nibs and in pivot bearings such as those found in compasses, surgical tools and other special equipment.

What is Osmium?

Osmium is a shiny silvery-bluish grey brittle metal in the Platinum group of metals.

The chemical symbol for Osmium is Os.

When heated in air it gives off the characteristic and toxic odour of osmium tetroxide.

Because of the toxicity of osmium tetroxide the metal is most often used as an alloy with other metals and as a catalyst.

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