Rare metal in Sutlej River: 6 things to know about Tantalum

Mar 28, 2024 ET Online

Traces of rare metal in Sutlej

Researchers have recently discovered traces of Tantalum, an extremely rare metal, in the sands of the Sutlej river - a finding that can be beneficial for the Indian industry. Image Source: iStock

Tantalum: Things to know

Here are 6 things to know about Tantalum to understand the significance of its discovery. Image Source: iStock

Critical in industry

Tantalum is an essential component and holds exceptional value in the electronics industry due to its capacity to store and release electrical charge. Image Source: iStock

Extremely rare

Tantalum is a relatively rare element, found in only about 0.002% of the Earth's crust. It is typically found in minerals such as columbite-tantalite. Image Source: iStock

High melting point

Tantalum has a very high melting point of 3017°C, making it one of the most refractory metals. This property makes it valuable for applications in high-temperature environments. Image Source: iStock

Corrosion resistant

Tantalum is highly resistant to corrosion, even by strong acids and alkalis. This makes it ideal for use in chemical processing equipment Image Source: iStock

Biocompatible

Tantalum is biocompatible, meaning it is not harmful to living tissue. This property makes it a valuable material for use in medical implants. Image Source: iStock

Multiple uses

Tantalum is a key component in electrolytic capacitors, which are used in smartphones, laptops, and computers. It can be used to make superconducting alloys and jet engine parts. Image Source: iStock

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