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Platinum
is an important metal. It is used:
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- in
the manufacture of laboratory instruments, medical and dental
instruments
- as
electrical contacts
- as
electrode material in electrochemistry
- in
catalytic converters in auto exhaust systems
- in
hyperdermic needles. An alloy of platinum containing up to 30%
iridium is usually used for this application. Iridium content
increases hardness and resistance to chemical attack.
- as
a catalyst when used in the powder form (platinum black)
- as
jewellery, platinum is among the finest, purest and rarest precious
metals. It has an understated elegance that appeals to both
men and women. One of the strongest and most enduring of metals,
it is also one of the heaviest. A piece of jewellery containing
90 percent pure platinum weighs 60 percent more than a 14 karat
gold piece of similar size. Platinum is ideal for jewellery
that is worn everyday because it shows little wear. It is also
hypoallergenic and resists tarnish.
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