Tantalum

It is part of the refractory metals group, which are widely used as minor components in alloys. Its main use today is in tantalum capacitors in electronic equipment such as mobile phones, DVD players, video game systems and computers. It has a high melting point and is frequently used as a substitute for platinum, which is more expensive. Tantalum is used to make components for chemical plants, nuclear power plants, airplanes and missiles. Tantalum does not react with bodily fluids and is used to make surgical equipment. Tantalum also does not irritate the body and is used to make surgical sutures as well as implants, such as artificial joints and cranial plates. Tantalum is alloyed with steel to increase steel’s ductility, strength and melting point. Tantalum is considered a technology-critical element.