Canada updates its critical minerals list to 34
As Canada’s industrial landscape evolves, the role of critical minerals in shaping the future of technology, infrastructure, and sustainability becomes increasingly prominent. Over the coming issues of the Critical Minerals Review, we’ll delve into the multifaceted uses of these minerals, spotlighting how they drive innovation and support various sectors.
In this first installment, we explore the diverse applications of aluminum, antimony, bismuth, cesium, chromium, and cobalt—six critical minerals that are integral to both the Canadian industry and global advancements.
Aluminum: The lightweight powerhouse
Aluminum is a versatile metal with applications spanning several industries. Its lightweight and corrosion-resistant properties make it a preferred material in the transportation sector. In automotive and aerospace industries, aluminum reduces fuel consumption and enhances efficiency. For example, the use of aluminum in aircraft structures not only decreases weight but also improves fuel efficiency and payload capacity. Similarly, in automobiles, aluminum parts contribute to lighter vehicles that consume less fuel and emit fewer greenhouse gases.
In construction, aluminum’s strength and malleability are exploited in the production of windows, doors, and roofing. The metal’s resistance to corrosion and ease of fabrication make it ideal for structural components and cladding, contributing to durable and sustainable building solutions.
Aluminum’s packaging applications are equally significant. Its impermeability and ability to preserve contents make aluminum foil and containers indispensable in food and beverage packaging, pharmaceuticals, and cosmetics. This not only extends shelf life, but also maintains the quality of the products.
Electrical applications also benefit from aluminum’s excellent conductivity and lightweight nature. Aluminum conductors in power lines and cables help reduce energy losses during transmission, while their light weight simplifies installation and reduces infrastructure costs.
Furthermore, aluminum’s aesthetic appeal and functional properties find a place in consumer goods such as cookware, electronics, and sports equipment. Its corrosion resistance and durability make it a popular choice for a range of consumer products, enhancing their lifespan and performance.
Antimony: The fire-resistant element
Antimony, though less visible in everyday products, plays a crucial role in various applications. In alloys, it is a key hardening agent, especially in lead-acid batteries, where it enhances the mechanical strength and durability of battery plates.
In fire retardants, antimony compounds are utilized to inhibit flame spread in plastics, textiles, and other materials. This application is vital for improving safety in a wide range of consumer and industrial products.
Antimony’s role in semiconductors is significant as well. Used as a dopant in the production of diodes and infrared detectors, antimony helps in the creation of electronic components essential for modern technology.
In pigments, antimony compounds such as antimony trioxide, are used to create white colours in paints, ceramics, and glass, contributing to the aesthetic and functional properties of these products.
Historically, antimony compounds were employed in medicine, but due to their toxicity, their use has largely been replaced by safer alternatives. Nonetheless, antimony remains important in military applications, including ammunition and flame-proofing materials.
Bismuth: A non-toxic alternative
Bismuth is a unique mineral with several distinct uses. In pharmaceuticals, bismuth compounds like bismuth subsalicylate are used to treat gastrointestinal issues by providing relief and protecting the stomach lining.
In cosmetics, bismuth oxychloride is valued for its pearlescent qualities. This shimmering effect enhances the texture and appearance of products like eyeshadows and face powders.
Metallurgy benefits from bismuth as well, with its use in fusible and low-melting point alloys. These alloys are crucial in applications such as soldering, plumbing, and casting.
In the nuclear industry, bismuth serves as a neutron absorber in some reactor types and provides radiation shielding. This application is critical for managing radiation exposure and enhancing reactor safety.
Bismuth compounds are also utilized in fire detection and suppression systems. For example, in sprinkler systems, bismuth melts at low temperatures to trigger water release, aiding in fire suppression.
Moreover, bismuth-based compounds are used in thermoelectric materials, which convert heat into electrical energy. This technology is applied in thermoelectric generators and cooling devices, contributing to energy efficiency and sustainability.
Cesium: Precision and propulsion
Cesium is known for its high-precision applications. In atomic clocks, cesium provides highly accurate timekeeping essential for scientific research, telecommunications, and GPS systems. Cesium-133 atoms emit electromagnetic radiation at a precise frequency, allowing for accurate time measurement.
In spacecraft propulsion, cesium-based ion thrusters offer an efficient means of propulsion by accelerating cesium ions using electric fields. This technology supports long-term space missions and satellite operations due to its efficiency and longevity.
Cesium is also utilized in chemical synthesis processes, where compounds like cesium carbonate act as powerful bases in organic reactions. Additionally, cesium-based photoelectric cells and medical imaging devices, such as X-ray scintillators, convert light into electrical signals and improve imaging techniques.
In the oil and gas industry, cesium formate solutions are used as high-density drilling fluids, enhancing wellbore stability and drilling efficiency in challenging conditions.
Finally, cesium vapour thermionic generators explore the use of cesium’s thermionic emission properties to convert heat into electricity, potentially powering spacecraft and portable devices.
Chromium: Strength and colour
Chromium’s most prominent use is in stainless-steel production, where it imparts corrosion resistance, hardness, and strength. Stainless steel, containing up to 20 per cent chromium, is integral to construction, automotive parts, kitchenware, and industrial equipment.
Chrome plating is another significant application, providing a decorative and protective layer on metal surfaces. This process is used extensively in automotive parts, bathroom fixtures, and consumer goods.
Chromium also finds use as an alloying agent in various metal alloys, enhancing their strength and heat resistance. These alloys are used in aerospace, marine, and chemical processing industries, where durability and performance are critical.
In chemical production, chromium compounds are used in pigments, dyes, and corrosion inhibitors. The metal’s high melting point and thermal stability make it suitable for refractory materials used in high-temperature applications such as kiln bricks and furnace linings.
Aerospace and defense applications also benefit from chromium’s high strength-to-weight ratio and corrosion resistance, making it ideal for components like aircraft parts and armour plating.
Lastly, chromium supplements are used in dietary supplements and pharmaceuticals to regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity in diabetic patients.
Cobalt: The all-rounder
Cobalt’s versatility spans multiple industries. In alloys, cobalt enhances the strength, corrosion resistance, and heat resistance of materials used in aerospace components, gas turbine engines, and medical implants.
Batteries rely on cobalt for improving energy density, stability, and longevity in lithium-ion cells used in smartphones, laptops, and electric vehicles. Despite efforts to reduce cobalt use due to ethical concerns, it remains a crucial component in battery technology.
Cobalt also serves as a catalyst in chemical processes such as petroleum refining and hydrogenation. Its role in facilitating reactions and improving selectivity is vital for various industrial applications.
In magnets, cobalt is a key element in high-strength permanent magnets used in electric motors, wind turbines, and MRI machines.
Pigments and dyes containing cobalt provide vibrant colours in ceramics, glass, and paints. Additionally, cobalt-chromium alloys are used in medical devices like hip and knee replacements due to their biocompatibility and mechanical properties.
Finally, cobalt-60, a radioactive isotope, is used in cancer treatment via radiation therapy, targeting cancerous cells while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissues.
In this edition, we’ve scratched the surface of how these critical minerals contribute to various sectors, driving innovation and supporting modern technologies. As we continue to explore other minerals in upcoming issues, we’ll uncover more about their impact on Canada’s economy and global advancements. Stay tuned for deeper insights into the essential elements shaping our world.
