Introduction:
| Symbol | : | Sb |
|---|---|---|
| Atomic number | : | 51 |
| Melting point | : | 630.6 °C |
| Density (near r.t) | : | 6.697 g/cm3 |
Characteristics:
- Antimony is metalloid, so it has some metallic properties but not enough to be classified as a true metal. Physically, it behaves like sulfur while chemically it is more metallic.
- Antimony’s electrical and thermal conductivity are lower than most metals conductivities
- Antimony is a brittle, fusible, crystalline solid. It is easily powdered.
- Antimony also has the unusual property that (like water) it expands as it freezes. Four other elements expand when the freeze; silicon, bismuth, gallium and germanium.
Applications:
- Antimony is alloyed with lead to increase lead’s durability.
- Antimony alloys are also used in batteries, low friction metals, type metal and cable sheathing, among other products.
- Antimony compounds are used to make flame-proofing materials, paints, ceramic enamels, glass and pottery.