Introduction
Platinum-Group Metals (PGMs) are elements of the Platinum Group, which include ruthenium (Ru), rhodium (Rh), palladium (Pd), osmium (Os), iridium (Ir), and platinum (Pt). These metals have many characteristics that make them important for a variety of industries, such as the automotive, electronics, jewelry, and medical sectors. Each of these elements has unique properties that make them beneficial for many different applications.
Uses
The primary use for PGMs is in the automotive industry. These metals are used for catalytic converters, which reduce harmful elements from the exhaust gasses of automobiles. This helps to meet air quality standards that have been established to protect human health and the environment. Other uses for these metals in the automotive industry include fuel additives, spark plug electrodes, and exhaust heat shields.
PGMs are also used to create a variety of jewelry, including high-end watches, necklaces, and wedding rings. Platinum and palladium are popular metals for wedding rings due to their hardness and durability. In addition to its use in jewelry, platinum is also used in electronics, especially in circuit boards and other components.
Properties
PGMs have several physical and chemical properties that make them beneficial for various applications. These metals possess a high degree of ductility, which is the ability to be stretched without breaking. They are also malleable, which means they can be bent without breaking, and can be cut and formed into a range of shapes easily.
In addition to their malleability and ductility, PGMs have high electrical conductivity, which makes them ideal for use in electronics. They also have a low vapor pressure, which allows them to remain a solid at higher temperatures than other metals. PGMs have a relatively high melting point as well, which means they can withstand high temperatures without melting.
Conclusion
PGMs are elements that have several properties that make them beneficial for a variety of industries. These metals are important for the automotive sector for their use in catalytic converters and other components. They are also used extensively in the jewelry, electronics, and medical sectors. These metals possess properties such as high ductility, malleability, electrical conductivity, and a low vapor pressure that make them ideal for a wide range of uses.
