Did You Know…

With close to 100 types of known metals in the world, it is no wonder that many of them have unique characteristics, use cases, and rarity levels. When you venture outside of “typical” metal and alloy types and use cases (think steel, aluminum, and other common materials used in building and manufacturing, for example), the wild world of metal offers imaginative and incredible wonders. 

Not all metals are harmful to the human body

While certain metals (like aluminum) can be harmful to human health, not all metals are toxic. Some metals, like titanium, are inert and do not react with internal tissues, which makes them ideal for medical implants and braces. Titanium is also resistant to corrosion in saltwater, which makes it a valuable material in the shipping industry. Other non-toxic metals include gold, silver, and copper, which have been used in jewelry-making and currency for centuries.

Some metals have exceptionally high melting points

One interesting property of metals is their melting point, which can vary greatly among different types of metals. Tungsten, for example, has an incredibly high melting point of 3,422ºC, which is equivalent to one-third of the temperature of the sun’s surface. This unique thermal property makes tungsten an excellent choice for high-temperature environments, such as the filament in light bulbs, heating elements, and rocket nozzles.

Some metals are more rare than gold

The scarcity of certain metals also affects their value. Some metals are exceptionally rare, rarer even than gold. For example, tantalum, a valuable metal used in electronics and medical implants, is believed to have only one or two atoms per million in the earth’s crust. Other rare metals include platinum, rhodium, and iridium, which are used in a variety of applications, such as catalytic converters, electronics, and jewelry. The rarity of these metals makes them highly sought after and valuable. However, it also raises concerns about their sustainable and ethical sourcing, as mining these metals can have negative environmental and social impacts.