Platinum Refining
Platinum refining refers to the process of taking raw or scrap platinum and transforming it into a form that is ready for use, such as pure ingots or bars. This involves a variety of technologies and processes, from crude to chemically sophisticated, depending on the form the final product will take.
One of the common refining processes is smelting. In this technique, the raw material – usually a combination of platinum and other metals – is melted in an oxygen-free furnace at a temperature of more than 1650 F. As the material starts to melt, the impurities separate and are skimmed off the surface. Using a refining crucible, the liquid platinum is poured out and cast into the desired shape.
Other methods of refining include chemical processes, such as dissolution and electrolysis. In dissolution, the raw material is submerged in a liquid solvent which uses a chemical reaction to separate out the other metals. A filtered solution of pure platinum is then left behind, and it is either in a solid form or as an aqua regia solution depending on the specific solvent used.
In electrolysis, the raw material is suspended in an electrolytic bath, with an inert cathode plate placed near the bottom. A direct current is passed through the solution, and the platinum is drawn by an electrical force to the plate. As it accumulates, the plate is moved up and finally scraped off. This process is repeated until all the impurities are removed, leaving pure platinum on the plate.
Generally, the platinum refining process consists of multiple steps which involve both chemical and physical processes. However, the exact steps will vary depending on the final product and the purity levels required. For example, a lower purity form of platinum may only require a few steps, while a higher purity form may require multiple stages of refining.
In addition to the refining process, there are other types of services provided by companies which specialize in the treatment of platinum. These services include melting, alloying, and powdering, as well as assaying. The assaying process is commonly used to determine the quality of the platinum and its components, as well as the amount of the various elements in a given sample. This process is often completed in the form of a certificate of analysis.
Overall, platinum refining is a complicated process which involves multiple steps and techniques. It can result in a variety of forms and purities of platinum, depending on the purpose of the product and the requirements of the customer. With companies which specialize in the treatment of platinum, it is now easier to have platinum in the form which meets your exact needs.
