Overview
Niobium is a soft, gray transition metal valued for its superconducting properties and ability to strengthen steel when alloyed.
Properties
It commonly exhibits a +5 oxidation state, has good corrosion resistance and contributes to high temperature strength in alloys.
Occurrence and Uses
Found in minerals such as columbite and pyrochlore, niobium is used in superalloys, superconducting magnets and specialty steels.
Isotopes and Safety
Stable isotope Nb 93 predominates; niobium metal is of low toxicity though fine powders require handling controls.