Products
Nb - Niobium
Nb niobium nanoparticles/nanopowder
Nb2O5 niobium oxide nanoparticles/nanopowder
NbB2 niobium boride micronpowder
NbC niobium carbide nanoparticles/nanopowder
NbN niobium nitride micronpowder
NbSi2 niobium silicide micronpowder
Niobium is a fascinating and versatile metal known for its unique properties and wide range of applications in various industries.
Physical Characteristics
- Appearance: Niobium is a shiny, white metal that is ductile and malleable. It can be drawn into wire or hammered into thin sheets.
- Density: It has a density of 8.57 g/cm³, which is relatively low for metals, making it lighter than many other metals.
- Melting Point: Niobium has a high melting point of approximately 2,468°C (4,474°F), enabling its use in high-temperature environments.
- Conductivity: While niobium is not the best conductor of electricity, it exhibits superconductivity at extremely low temperatures (below -263°C or -441°F).
- Corrosion Resistance: It is highly resistant to corrosion due to the formation of a protective oxide layer on its surface, making it stable in air and most acids.
Applications
Superconducting Magnets: One of the most significant uses of niobium is in the manufacture of superconducting alloys, particularly niobium-titanium (Nb-Ti) and niobium-tin (Nb3Sn), which are used in the magnets for MRI machines and particle accelerators.
Steel Production: Niobium is added in small amounts to steel and stainless steel to improve strength, toughness, and thermal stability. These niobium-enhanced materials are used in pipelines, automotive components, and structural applications.
Aerospace Industry: Due to its heat resistance and lightweight properties, niobium alloys are used in jet engines and rocket subassemblies where high temperature and strength are crucial.
Electronics: Niobium is used in the manufacturing of capacitors and other electronic components due to its ability to form a dielectric oxide layer.
Compounds
Niobium Pentoxide (Nb2O5): This is the most stable oxide of niobium and is used in the production of special glasses and ceramics, as well as in the manufacturing of niobium metal itself.
Niobium Carbide (NbC): Known for its hardness, it is used in cutting tools and as an additive to improve the properties of steel.
Niobium Nitride (NbN): Exhibits superconducting properties and is used in electronic components and superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDs).
Basics on Niobium-Wikipedia