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From ancient times to modern times: How did platinum become the king of precious metals?
Platinum, one of the chemical elements, has the symbol Pt and atomic number 78. This is a precious metal with high density, strong ductility, and corrosion resistance. It has a silvery white appearance. Its name originates from the Spanish "platina", which means little silver. As a member of the precious metal family, platinum is widely prized for its rarity and unique properties. In this article, we will explore the evolution of platinum from ancient times to the present day and learn why it is the king of precious metals.
Early Adoption
The use of platinum can be traced to the indigenous cultures of South America between 600 BC and 200 AD. Archaeologists have discovered traces of platinum in metal artifacts in Ecuador, indicating that early South Americans began to use platinum to make works of art.
"Gold found in ancient Egyptian tombs also contains traces of platinum, but people's understanding of this metal was still very limited at the time."
Discovery of Europe
Platinum was first mentioned in the work of Italian Giulio Cesar Scaliger in 1557. However, the Spanish had a very limited understanding of platinum and regarded it as an impurity of gold and refused to use it.
It was not until the discovery of Spanish explorers Antonio de Uyo and Jorge Juan in 1735 that Europeans began to conduct systematic research on platinum.
"Uyo reported the discovery of a new metal in Colombia, which marked the awakening of platinum in the scientific community."
Physical and chemical properties of platinum
Pure platinum is a shiny silver-white metal with excellent ductility and corrosion resistance. Platinum’s wear-resistant properties make it extremely common in fine jewelry.
"Platinum's physical properties and chemical stability make it an important material for industrial applications."
Platinum Mining and Production
Today, platinum is primarily recycled from the production of nickel and copper. South Africa has long been a major producer of platinum, providing approximately 80% of the world's platinum production. The mining of platinum has certain environmental impacts, but its economic value and demand remain strong.
"In 2010, South Africa accounted for 77% of the world's platinum production, demonstrating its important position in the global market."
Applications of platinum
Today, platinum is widely used in catalytic converters, jewelry, medical devices and other fields. In the automotive industry, platinum's catalytic properties make it an important material for reducing harmful emissions. In addition, the application of platinum compounds such as cisplatin and carboplatin in cancer chemotherapy further demonstrates their medical value.
Future Outlook
With the advancement of science and technology, the application fields of platinum may be further expanded, especially in electronic products and new energy technologies. As a rare resource, platinum's future will depend on sustainable mining and use.
Over the centuries, platinum has evolved from a treasure of ancient civilizations to the king of modern industry. Its unique physical and chemical properties have always allowed it to maintain a unique position in various fields. The story of platinum not only reflects the value of the metal itself, but also represents how humans use this precious metal to improve the quality of life and advance science and technology. Against this background, we can’t help but ask: What new materials will be needed to replace or supplement platinum in the next generation of technological innovation?
