A Visual Encyclopedia of the Periodic Table

83

Transition Metals

precious, it is used to make commemorative

coins in some countries. Palladium is alloyed

with steel to make it more resistant to corrosion.

These alloys are used to make surgical

tools and expensive musical instruments,

such as some flutes. Palladium is often mixed

with gold to form an alloy called white gold,

which is used in jewellery. Some fountain

pens have nibs decorated with palladium.

The element is also used in glucometer

test strips so that patients can check the

level of glucose in their blood.

This flute contains

palladium that enables

it to resist corrosion.

This test strip contains

palladium, which contributes

to a reaction that measures

glucose in a drop of blood.

Orchestral flute

These tools are made

of palladium alloys, which

keep them sharp for a long time.

Surgical tools

This palladium

nib is decorated.

Palladium is added to

gold to remove its colour.

Fountain

pen nib

G

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co

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st

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ip

Whit

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ol
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This tiny spring,
which keeps time in
a watch, is made of
palladium alloys.
W
atc
h^ s
pring
Many cars contain engines that are attached to
catalytic convertors. These important devices
convert toxic exhaust gases into less harmful
pollutants. Palladium plays a key role in the process.

1. Polluting gases
   enter the converter.


2. Gases with less harmful
   fumes exit through
   the exhaust pipe.


3. A chemical reaction occurs
   in the palladium mesh, which
   reduces harmful pollutants.
   CATALYTIC CONVERTER
   082-083_Palladium.indd 83 02/12/16 6:52 pm