Aluminum: Overview
Aluminum is a lightweight metal that has a bright silver luster and high electrical and thermal conductivity. It is the most abundant metal element in the Earth’s crust, representing 8.1% of the Earths mantle and 8.3% of the Earths crust by weight.Aluminum is one of Earths most abundant resources, making up 8% of the Earths crust and being the third most abundant element after oxygen and silicon. It is also one of the cheapest, costing less than iron and steel.
The Element that changed the World
Aluminum, also known as Aluminium, has had a large impact on the world and modern civilization. It is used in different alloys and has been credited with revolutionizing the entire airline industry due to its lightweight properties. Before aluminum was discovered, almost all airplanes flew with a steel structure. Today, with aluminum, airplanes can fly much faster and farther, due to its lightweight yet strong structure. As a result, aluminum has become the go-to material for aircrafts, especially due to its corrosion-resistance capabilities.
Aluminum in Consumer Goods
Aluminum is also incredibly versatile and is found in many consumer items that people use daily. From beverage cans, to cookware, and to cars and trucks, aluminum is an ideal material for modern products due to its strength and weight. In the food industry, aluminum foil is used to wrap up food, thus keeping it fresh. In addition, aluminum is lightweight yet strong, making it the perfect material for bikes and other recreational gear.
The Production of Aluminum
The aluminum production process is quite complex and requires specific equipment to take place. The ore is first mined and taken to a processing plant. There, it is then treated and processed by melting it in furnaces. In this process, pure aluminum is formed from a compound called alumina, which is found in the ore. The aluminum is then transported to large manufacturing plants where it is used in the production of aluminum products.
Aluminum in the Environment
Due to aluminums use in packaging and manufacturing, it can be found in varying amounts in the environment. Aluminum can enter the environment in the form of dust particles or through leaching into water sources. The primary concern with aluminum in the environment is its potential health impacts, especially when found in large amounts. Aluminum has been linked to several different health conditions, including nervous system disorders and even cancer.
Conclusion
Aluminum is an incredibly common, and incredibly important, element found in the Earth’s crust. It is the world’s third most abundant element and is used for various industrial and consumer purposes. Aluminum has had a large impact on the transportation sector and is used in construction, packaging, and other consumer goods. Aluminum production is a complex and expensive process and there are potential health concerns related to aluminum’s presence in the environment.
