Minerals
A deep dive into the minerals we deal in
Gold
Gold still remains and will continue to occupy a very valuable place in our society- we use it as an economic hedge, in electronic devices and as jewellery. Gold has been the metal of the future for thousands of years.
Copper
For thousands of years copper has remained most widespread, Ancient cultures used copper to disinfect wounds and manufacture weaponry. Copper also forms a very essential part of human health as well as the obvious industrial electrical use.
Cobalt
Although little is known about this metal, our daily lives would come to a grinding halt without its application in the very essential daily appliances. The most common uses range from it being used in electronic devices, cobalt-based batteries, jet engines and also in hip replacement parts due to its uniquely resistant properties.
Silver
Silver is used as jewellery, manufacture of coins, tableware, mirrors due to its naturally shiny property. Silver bromide and iodide were an important part of early photography due to their sensitivity to light. Even with the advent of modern-day digital photography, silver salts still play a very important role in ensuring production of high quality images.
Nickel
Nickel is prized for its anti-corrosive property that make it a metal of choice in the plating of other metals to protect them. It is mainly used in making alloys such as stainless steel. It is also used in the manufacture of alloys that require ability to withstand extreme temperatures. Nickel alloys are now increasingly being used in the manufacture of rechargeable batteries.
Zinc
Zinc is used in alloys such as brass, nickel, aluminium solder and silver. Zinc oxide is a primary ingredient in the manufacture of paints, rubber, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, plastics, inks, soaps, batteries, textiles and electrical equipment.