Niobium is a chemical element that belongs to the transition metals. It is a particularly rare heavy metal of grey colour and easy to forge. Niobium was discovered by Charles Hatchett in 1801.
Because of the similar ion radii, niobium and tantalum always occur in twins. Since niobium and tantalum always occur together, niobium and tantalum ores are first broken down together and then separated by fractional crystallization or different solubility in organic solvents.
Niobium is a shiny grey heavy metal. Thanks to the formation of a passive layer (protective layer), niobium is very resistant to air. The addition of tungsten and molybdenum to niobium increases its heat resistance, aluminium its strength.
Niobium is used as an alloying additive for stainless steels, special stainless steels and non-ferrous alloys. Niobium can also be used as a catalyst, in nuclear technology and for surface coating of implants, and has many other uses. As already mentioned, niobium is a very rare heavy metal, but it does occur in our mine and is mined. Our raw materials are tested and evaluated, digitalized and secured with Smart Contracts. Become a member now.
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