What are the most used metals?

by Brown, LeMay, Bursten, Murphy, and Woodward

The line that divides metals from nonmetals in the periodic table crosses the p block diagonally. As a result, the differences between metallic and nonmetallic properties are evident within each group, even though all members of each group have the same valence electron configuration. The p block is the only portion of the periodic table where we encounter the inert-pair effect. Moreover, as with the s-block elements, the chemistry of the lightest member of each group in the p block differs sharply from that of its heavier congeners but is similar to that of the element immediately below and to the right of it in the next group. Thus diagonal similarities in chemistry are seen across the p block.

A nonmetal is a chemical element that mostly lacks metallic attributes. Physically, nonmetals tend to be highly volatile (easily vaporized), have low elasticity, and are good insulators of heat and electricity; chemically, they tend to have high ionization energy and electronegativity values, and gain or share electrons when they react with other elements or compounds. Seventeen elements are generally classified as nonmetals; most are gases (hydrogen, helium, nitrogen, oxygen, fluorine, neon, chlorine, argon, krypton, xenon and radon); one is a liquid (bromine); and a few are solids (carbon, phosphorus, sulfur, selenium, and iodine).

As you study the periodic trends in properties and the reactivity of the elements in groups 13–18, you will learn how “cobalt blue” glass, rubies, and sapphires are made and why the US military became interested in using boron hydrides as rocket fuels but then abandoned its effort. You will also discover the source of diamonds on Earth, why silicon-based life-forms are likely to exist only in science fiction, and why most compounds with N–N bonds are potentially explosive. You will also learn why phosphorus can cause a painful and lethal condition known as “phossy jaw” and why selenium is used in photocopiers.

Commercial metal usage continues to grow due to demand for a wide range of commercial applications. A metal supply company is needed for commercial construction, air conditioner systems, power lines, and much more. However, each project may require a different type of metal. Here are seven of the most used metals for commercial applications.

1. Iron

Iron is the most abundant metal. About 5% of the Earth’s crust is comprised of iron. Close to 90% of all refined metal is iron.

Iron is typically combined with other elements to create new alloys, such as steel. It is often used to make alloy steels by combining iron with nickel, tungsten, manganese, vanadium, chromium, and other alloys.

Iron is also used for wrought iron products. Common examples include wrought iron chains, nails, rivets, nuts, bolts, railings, and ornamental ironworks.

2. Steel

Metal supply companies offer a large variety of steel products. Steel is one of the most used metals due to its strength. It is also available in over 3,500 different grades to suit different applications. Common types of steel include stainless steel, carbon steel, and alloy steel.

Steel is used in the production of most vehicles, medical equipment, ships, and household appliances. Stainless steel is made from iron, chromium, and other alloys. It is resistant to corrosion, making it a common choice for metal parts that are exposed to water and moisture. 

3. Aluminium

Aluminium is another of the most used metals due to its unique characteristics. Aluminium is lightweight but durable and resistant to corrosion. It is a combination of other materials, including bauxite ore, silica, and iron oxide.

Aluminium also offers great electrical conductivity, which makes it a common choice for power lines. It also conducts heat well and is often used in heatsinks and electrical components. It is also used to make cans, kitchen utensils, and window frames.

4. Zinc

Zinc is a popular metal due to its low melting point. It melts quickly, which also makes it easy to recycle. It is a strong material that is most commonly used as a coating to protect other metals. For example, zinc may be used as a coating to shield steel from rust.

Zinc has a thin, protective layer called the patina. The patina protects the surface of the metal from the air, which decreases the risk of corrosion.

5. Bronze

Bronze was the first human-made alloy. It comes from a combination of copper and tin. As with many other popular types of metal, bronze is resistant to corrosion. It is also less likely to bend or crack and offers great electrical conductivity.

Bronze is a common material for cabinet hardware and furniture trim. As it has less iron compared to many other popular metals, bronze does not rust. However, it can develop a patina due to its copper content. You may eventually notice a greenish appearance if bronze is frequently exposed to water.

6. Copper

Copper is a relatively inexpensive metal compared to other options, which helps make it popular for a wide range of applications. It is an easy metal to work and is found in a variety of items, including pipes for plumbing, currency, and wiring.

Copper has excellent electrical conductivity properties. It is a common choice for circuit boards, electrical wires, and electronic components.

7. Gold

Gold is another good electrical conductor and is resistant to corrosion. However, the use of gold for the exchange of currencies makes it less cost-effective for most commercial applications. It is more commonly used to cover the surfaces of components in high-end products.

For example, the connectors on stereo equipment may include gold plating on the ends for increased electrical conductivity.

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