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Wednesday22 May 2013

Antimony is a chemical element with the symbol Sb, derived from the old name Stibium (from the Latin).  The name “antimony” is derived from two Greek words: ‘anti’ and ‘monos’ which mean ‘not alone' since it is usually found combined with sulfur or another base metal (Lead, Silver or Copper).  The atomic number is 51.  It has an atomic weight of 121.75 and in its standard state, is a solid. It has a melting point of 630°C and a boiling point of 1587°C.  It has a specific heat capacity of 25.23J/mol·1/K.

 

Antimony has a silvery look. Its brittle nature gives the metallic form a flaky, crystalline texture. Chemically, Antimony is very stable in air. An alloys resistance to corrosion can be improved by Antimony's inertness to alkalies and acids. It is also a poor conductor of heat and electricity.

 

Antimony is mixed with Lead and with Tin to produce a stronger and harder compound. It is important in the production of pewter and allows the alloy to flow easier into a mold, such as a rubber spin cast mold or steel gravity pour mold. Too much Antimony may cause the alloy to crack or to have large amounts of porosity in the casting.

 

Antimony is used extensively in alloys for car batteries and bullets.  With new regulations being formed, the use of Antimony in compounds for flame-retardant in plastics and textiles has declined significantly since it is now considered to be toxic in several forms.  In solid form it is considered to be relatively inactive whereas stibnite is extremely toxic to humans.  Some compounds of Antimony can be severe irritants.  It is still prevalent in solders and anti-friction bearings and can be found in certain forms of drugs.

 

Belmont produces many alloys with additions of Antimony.  We can custom blend a formula to match your product needs.

 

Antimony Ingot