Rhodium

Rhodium is a silvery white chemical element with the symbol Rh and is one of the most expensive chemical metals. Rhodium’s atomic number is 45. Its atomic Weight is 102.9055 and its atomic volume is 8.3cm3/mol. Its melting point is higher as 2237 K (1964 ?C, 3567?F), and its density is lower compared to platinum. Rhodium is available in a number of forms such as sponge, foil and wire.

Rhodium was discovered in 1803 in England by William Hyde Wollaston.Extraction of Rhodium is not a simple process because it occurs in the form of ores and is mixed with other chemicals such as silver, platinum and gold.

Uses of Rhodium

Rhodium is a very important chemical which is popular because of its multiple utility. It is a very important catalyst. It is primarily used for alloying purposes. It is used as an ‘electrical contact’ material. It also finds place in the optical industry because plated rhodium which is hard is used for optical equipments.

It also produces X-rays and is therefore employed as filters in mammography system. Another important use of rhodium is that it is an important decorating material and has great demand in designing of jewelry.

Other Important Details about Rhodium

Highest concentration of rhodium is found in sandy river sides of the Ural Mountains and also in North America. It is also found in ample quantity in the copper-nickel rich area of the Sudbury, Ontario region. About 20 tones of rhodium are produced annually. Among all the exporters, South Africa is the largest exporter of Rhodium exporting almost 80 % of the total world export. It is followed by Russia.

Rhodium is almost six times costlier than gold with its price amounting to $1000/troy oz.