The PGM concentrates are usually sold to refineries that have its own equipment to extract iridium metal. Production of IridiumĮxtraction of iridium is through nickel and PGM –rich ores as a by-product. The anodes which contain titanium and some PGM oxides was a huge breakthrough in chlorine production and caustic soda, and the need for iridium in this development has become more essential. In the late 1960’s, dimensionally stable anodes (DSA) were developed and had an increasing demand for the metal. In the early 1930’s, the first iridium-ruthenium thermocouples were created. This discovery was produced by Johnson-Matthey firm, and Sir William found that iridium was a lot better to use than pure platinum in the crucibles. In 1908, Sir William Crookes designed and introduced the first iridium crucibles, a vessel used for chemical reactions in high temperature. When iridium alloys were applied to the vent pieces, the cannon held its shape and form for more than 3,000 charges. It was first used on Witworth cannons during the American Civil War.īefore iridium alloys were introduced, the cannon vent pieces which held the weapon’s ignition were known for deformation because of repeated ignition and high temperature in combustion. Johnson-Matthey, a British company, developed iridium-platinum alloys. The second half of the 19 th century was about further innovations using iridium. After learning about the element’s properties, he started making the first iridium-tipped gold pens. John Isaac Hawkins was the first to develop the metal for commercial use in 1834. However, it was not until after 40 years that a pure iridium metal was produced since his discovery. Smithson Tennant discovered iridium in 1804 during an examination of platinum ore. For example, when platinum is alloyed with 50% iridium, the metal is nearly ten times harder compared to its pure state. This characteristic of iridium makes it an essential alloy-strengthening component. Moreover, iridium is considered the second highest in terms of modulus of elasticity among all metal elements which means that the metal is very durable and resistant to deformation. Other than being highly non-corrosive, it is also the second most dense of all minerals because of its extremely high melting point and high stability in high temperatures.
The metal in its raw and pure state is extremely stable and highly dense.Īmong all metallic elements, iridium is known as the most highly resistant to corrosion because of its ability to resist attack from oxide, salt, mineral acids and aqua regia (a combination of hydric and nitrochloric acid), but is vulnerable to attack coming from molten salt like sodium cyanide and sodium chloride. Iridium is a hard and lustrous member of the platinum group metals which displays high stability in high temperature conditions and in chemical environments. You will be surprised to know that these unheard of types of metals actually form part of the many things we use and encounter every day. To add up to your knowledge of these metallic elements, here’s a profile of a member of the six metals under the platinum group metals (PGM) called iridium. It’s always interesting to learn a thing or two about minerals and precious metals.
We probably only know the most popular ones: gold, silver, platinum, nickel, copper, and then some. Many of us are not very knowledgeable about the different kinds of metals there are.
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