Molybdenum (Mo)
Silver-white in its pure form and very hard, molybdenum has the sixth highest melting point of any element, as well as the lowest heating expansion of any commercially used metal. is the world’s fourth-largest producer of molybdenum (2006 figures), according to the International Molybdenum Association.
Uses:
- High-strength alloys and high-temperature steels to improve hardenability, strength, toughness and resistance to corrosion
- Lubricants, reagents, dyeing compounds, pigments, glazes and enamels, electroplating compounds, catalysts, fertilizers, flame retardants, paints and inks
Pricing: US$32.20-32.70/lb (oxide, as at May 5, 2008)
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Tungsten (W)
Very hard and dense, tungsten has the highest melting point of any metal. It is able to withstand tremendous force at elevated temperatures, is highly resistant to corrosion and offers good thermal and electrical conductivity. Tungsten metal is the hardest of the refractory metals, while tungsten carbide is one of the hardest known substances.
Uses:
- Light-bulb and vacuum-tube filaments
- Electrodes
- High-performance alloys
- Tool-and-die manufacturing
- Welding equipment
Pricing: US$15,730/t (WO3 ore, as at May 5, 2008)
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Tin (Sn)
Tin is a silvery metal characterized by its high malleability and resistance to corrosion.
Uses:
- Coatings for lead, zinc and steel to prevent corrosion
- Solders for joining pipes
- Electrical circuits
- Alloying with copper to create bronze
- Cans and containers
Pricing: US$23.96/kg (as at May 5, 2008)
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Indium (In)
Chemically similar to aluminum, this rare and in-demand metal is soft, malleable and easily fusible. Indium occurs in base-metal concentrates such as tin, copper, lead and zinc, and is a rare element, ranging 61st in abundance in the earth’s crust.
is the world’s third-leading producer of indium, and has the world’s largest indium reserves, according to the US Geological Survey (2006 figures).
Uses:
- Liquid crystal displays for computers and other electronics
- Thin-film solar technology
- Semi-conductors
- Infrared reflectors
- Solders
Pricing: US$685/kg (ingot – as at May 5, 2008)
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