Brace yourselves ‘cause this element can get a little SAVAGE. For today’s edition of METAL MONDAY we examine a transition metal that’s hazardous to humans, but plays an important role in some solar panels: Cadmium (Cd).
- Certain forms and concentrations of cadmium render the metal toxic, but its still been widely used throughout history, even in medical applications. A 1907 pharmaceutical record notes cadmium iodide was used to treat “enlarged joints, scrofulous glands, and chilblains.”
- The metal has also been used as a coating for iron and steel to prevent corrosion and as a yellow pigment. As an understanding of its toxicity developed, the metal was shifted into more docile applications – like batteries.
- The compound cadmium telluride (see second image above) is a component in certain solar cells. Its found limited use, however, due to concerns about toxicity. Still, advocates of cadmium-powered technology say the metal will be mined anyway (often as a byproduct of zinc refining) and argue its use in solar panels is preferable to disposal as hazardous waste.
- It’s named after the Greek mythological character Cadmus, one of the first Greek heroes and the legendary founder of the city of Thebes.
(Image Credit: Wikimedia Commons / Source: The University of Nottingham, CDC, Wikimedia Commons, )
More than you ever wanted to know about Cadmium.
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