Overview
Tantalum is a highly corrosion resistant transition metal widely used in electronic capacitors and biomedical implants.
Properties
It forms a stable oxide layer, is ductile and has excellent biocompatibility and chemical resistance.
Occurrence and Uses
Used in tantalum capacitors for electronics, surgical implants, chemical processing equipment and high temperature alloys.
Isotopes and Safety
Stable isotope Ta 181 predominates; tantalum is biocompatible though fine dusts require industrial hygiene controls.