Overview
Iridium is a rare, hard, corrosion resistant metal valued for durability in extreme environments and electrical contacts.
Properties
It resists oxidation and corrosion, has high melting point and maintains mechanical integrity at high temperatures.
Occurrence and Uses
Used in spark plugs, crucibles, electrical contacts, deep sea cables and as a hardening alloying element in platinum alloys.
Isotopes and Safety
Stable isotope Ir 193 and radioactive Ir 192 used industrially exist; iridium metal is handled with standard industrial precautions.