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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tr
ip
Whit
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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.
- Polluting gases
enter the converter. - Gases with less harmful
fumes exit through
the exhaust pipe. - 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