
Name | Nickel |
Symbol | Ni |
Atomic Number | 28 |
Atomic Mass | 47,867 u |
Density | 8,908 g/cm³ |
Melting Point | 1728 K (1455°C) |
Purchase Nickel Semi-Finished Products
In addition to titanium, vanadium, chromium, zirconium, molybdenum, hafnium, tantalum, niobium, and tungsten, we also offer nickel in our product range. This allows us to supply you with a wide variety of nickel semi-finished products in many different sizes for your project.
Facts About Nickel
Nickel, with the chemical symbol Ni, is a silvery shiny metal. As a transition metal, it is located in Group 10 (8th subgroup) of the periodic table. Nickel is known for its high corrosion resistance and versatility in alloys. It is one of the most commonly used metals in the industry, particularly valued for its magnetic and heat-resistant properties.
History of Nickel
Nickel was first discovered in 1751 by the Swedish chemist Axel Fredrik Cronstedt, when he analyzed a mineral called nickel arsenide, originally mistaken for a type of copper ore. The mineral, also known as ‘Kupfernickel,’ did not contain copper but instead a new element. The name ‘Nickel’ derives from the German term ‘Kupfernickel,’ meaning ‘deceptive copper,’ as it did not yield the expected copper when smelted.
Throughout the 19th century, nickel became an important material in the metal industry. The development of alloys such as nickel steel and its increasing use in coin production contributed significantly to its importance. Today, nickel is an essential component of many high-performance materials.
Applications of Nickel
Nickel is an extremely versatile metal that is indispensable in numerous industries. One of its primary applications lies in the production of corrosion-resistant alloys such as Inconel and Hastelloy, which are used in extreme environments like turbines, engines, and chemical reactors. Due to its excellent properties, nickel is also valued in the electronics industry, particularly in rechargeable batteries such as lithium-ion and nickel-metal hydride batteries, used in smartphones, electric vehicles, and other modern devices.
Furthermore, nickel is a key component in electroplating, which protects surfaces from corrosion and provides an aesthetically pleasing appearance. Nickel also plays an important role in coin production, as many coins worldwide are made from nickel or nickel alloys. In medical technology, nickel is used for surgical instruments and medical devices due to its biocompatibility, meeting strict hygiene and durability standards.
Another exciting application is in hydrogen technology. Here, nickel is used as a catalyst in the production and storage of hydrogen, making it a key element in the development of sustainable energy solutions. Overall, nickel’s properties and versatility make it indispensable in various industries, contributing significantly to modern technologies and future applications.